About Us
Advancing Psychology Together
Welcome to the Mississippi Psychological Association, the leading organization dedicated to advancing psychology as a profession and science in Mississippi.
Who We Are
MPA is a dynamic and growing organization with a strong membership. In 1994, MPA was recognized as the Outstanding State Association by Division 31 of the APA as one of the best-organized and committed state associations in the nation. This award recognizes the commitment of psychology, both in science and practice. Active involvement by all is encouraged; and participation is one of the best methods to ensure the promotion of a positive image of psychology.
Our Mission Statement
MPA advances psychology as a science and as a profession by:
- Supporting the academic community,
- Providing psychological knowledge to the general public, and
- Promoting psychological practice.
Our Executive Council
The Executive Council governs the Mississippi Psychological Association. This council is comprised of ten elected members and two appointed ex officio members. The State is divided into four regions, each with representation on the Executive Council.
David Gavel, Ph.D.
President
Public Education Chair
Kathryn Waggoner PsyD, ABPP
President-Elect
Continuing Education Chair
Kristy McRaney, Ph.D.
Immediate Past President
Convention Chair
Natalie Gaughf, Ph.D., ABPP
APA Council Representative
Legislative Chair
Josh Fulwiler, Ph.D.
Communications Officer
Telehealth/Rural Health Chair
Jeff Parker, Ph.D.
Financial Officer
Ty Stafford, Ph.D.
Region 1
Liz Woodruff, Ph.D.
Region 2
Business of Practice Chair
Geralyn Datz, Ph.D., MP
Region 3
Jennifer Ladner-Graham, Ph.D.
Region 4
Michael Nadroff, Ph.D.
Academic/Training
Ryan Liu-Pham, Ph.D.
Diversity
Nathan Ross, Ph.D.
Early Career
Danielle Maack, Ph.D.
Federal Advocacy Coordinator
Angela Herzog, Ph.D.
Historian
Barbara Martin, Ph.D.
Membership
Amanda Gugliano, PsyD
Psychology/Law
LaDarion Ammons, JD
Executive Director
Membership Involvement and Governance
There are numerous committees, task forces, and working groups through which our members conduct important work on behalf of psychology in Mississippi.
David Gavel, Ph.D.
President
Public Education Chair
Kathryn Waggoner PsyD, ABPP
President-Elect
Continuing Education Chair
Kristy McRaney, Ph.D.
Immediate Past President
Convention Chair
Natalie Gaughf, Ph.D., ABPP
APA Council Representative
Legislative Chair
Josh Fulwiler, Ph.D.
Communications Officer
Telehealth/Rural Health Chair
Jeff Parker, Ph.D.
Financial Officer
Ty Stafford, Ph.D.
Region 1
Liz Woodruff, Ph.D.
Region 2
Business of Practice Chair
Geralyn Datz, Ph.D., MP
Region 3
Jennifer Ladner-Graham, Ph.D.
Region 4
Michael Nadroff, Ph.D.
Academic/Training
Ryan Liu-Pham, Ph.D.
Diversity
Nathan Ross, Ph.D.
Early Career
Danielle Maack, Ph.D.
Federal Advocacy Coordinator
Angela Herzog, Ph.D.
Historian
Barbara Martin, Ph.D.
Membership
Amanda Gugliano, PsyD
Psychology/Law
LaDarion Ammons, JD
Executive Director
View Our Speaker's Bureau Directory
In an effort to increase community presence, collaboration, and accessibility the Mississippi Psychological Association (MPA) has developed a Speaker’s Bureau. This Bureau directory includes MPA members who are available and willing to provide trainings, engage in media appearances, and/or be an invited speaker.
Read What Our Members Say About MPA
"Coming from out-of-state as a military spouse, MPA quickly became a central source for connecting with fellow psychologists. I've been a part of a few state psychological associations throughout my career and my involvement in MPA has been the most enriching and fulfilling."
Kathryn Waggoner, PsyD, ABPP
President-Elect
“MPA provides a wonderful opportunity to network and build relationships with psychologists across the state. The connections I have made through MPA have proven to be incredibly valuable, both professionally and personally!”
Kristy McRaney, Ph.D.
Convention Chair
“Being part of MPA is about belonging to a network of dedicated psychologists committed to advancing the field of psychology in the state. From focusing on important legislation and advocacy initiatives, to providing learning and networking engagements, I’m appreciative of all I've gained through my membership in the Mississippi Psychological Association.”
Danielle Maack, Ph.D.
Federal Advocacy Coordinator
"I remember I was still a few months away from being licensed when I heard about the MPA Day at the Capitol event. I wasn't really a Mississippi Psychologist yet, but I figured it couldn't hurt to meet a few people. I'm so glad I went..."
David Gavel, Ph.D.
President