Senator Heidi Heitkamp honored for advocacy work, leadership on mental health issues

Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) was honored last night by the American Psychological Association Practice Organization (APAPO) for her advocacy work and leadership on mental health issues. APAPO recognized Sen. Heitkamp with the 2015 Outstanding Leadership Award, given annually to a member of Congress who has championed the goals of professional psychology.

Sen. Heitkamp has prominently supported the goals of professional psychology through her support of the Medicare Mental Health Access Act, expected to be reintroduced sometime in the coming weeks. This legislation will improve patient access to mental health care, especially in rural and underserved areas, by removing outdated and unnecessary physician oversight of psychologists' services in many treatment settings.

"Senator Heitkamp has been a champion for this important patient access legislation," says Katherine C. Nordal, PhD, APAPO's executive director. "The Medicare Mental Health Access Act is an APAPO legislative priority and our psychologist members are pleased to have her strong support."

Sen. Heitkamp is serving her first term in the United States Senate representing North Dakota.

"Growing up in a small town in North Dakota, I've long understood the challenges of connecting folks with resources, particularly mental and behavioral health services," Sen. Heitkamp said. "But regardless of where you live, far too many across our country face barriers to accessing appropriate care. Thank you to the American Psychological Association Practice Organization for this recognition. As the severe and immediate need to treat mental health issues becomes more and more distinct in our country, we must work together on proactive solutions. Together, we can prevent tragedy, brighten futures and change outcomes."