The College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists (CPNP) was founded on March 24, 1998 when the network of pharmacists formerly known as the Conference of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists became a professional society. The formation of CPNP was the culmination of efforts of many pharmacists practicing in the psychiatry and neurology specialties over the past 30 years.
In 2022, 50 years after the first psychiatric pharmacy residency was established, CPNP was renamed the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP) to provide a clarity of purpose, enhance advocacy efforts, streamline planning strategies, and allow the organization to proceed with passion, focus, and authenticity.
AAPP serves a membership of nearly 3,000 individuals.
A world where all individuals living with mental illness receive safe, appropriate, and effective treatment.
Our mission is to advance the reach and practice of psychiatric pharmacy and serve as the voice of the specialty.
Members of the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP) are pharmacists who specialize in treating patients living with psychiatric disorders, including substance use disorders. Psychiatric pharmacists have extensive training and expertise in medication treatment and the psychosocial factors inherent within these illnesses. They are responsible for evidence-based patient-centered assessment, medication management of complex regimens, and comprehensive care plan development. Psychiatric pharmacists work collaboratively with medical and mental health interprofessional teams to improve patients' short- and long-term outcomes. They extend their reach by partnering with and educating patients, families, and providers and advocating for the appropriate use of medications.