HHS to investigate American Psychological Association over alleged Jew-hatred, anti-Israel bias
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is investigating the American Psychological Association (APA) over allegations of antisemitic discrimination, according to an announcement Wednesday from the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law.
The Brandeis Center filed a complaint with HHS on Aug. 8, 2025, claiming the APA, which has more than 172,000 members and receives millions in federal funding each year, has “become one of the worst purveyors of antisemitism and extremist ideology in healthcare.”
The complaint alleges Jewish and Israeli current and former APA members said the association promoted “Decolonizing Therapy,” including framing Zionism as a mental illness. It also claims the APA sponsors continuing education courses required for licensure that, according to the complaint, are taught by psychologists who incorporate political messaging about “resistance” and the “Palestinian liberation struggle” into clinical practice, and at times describe Zionists using clinical terms such as “psychotic.”
It further alleges APA conferences have included sessions advancing “Decolonizing Therapy” and describing the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel as military-targeted actions. The filing also cites listserv messages allegedly praising Hamas, calling for boycotts of Israel, comparing Gaza to the Warsaw ghetto, and praying for Israel’s destruction.
The complaint says Jewish members who raised concerns faced hostility and that reports were dismissed or ignored. One therapist allegedly experienced harassment at an APA conference and says no proper action was taken, with the alleged harasser not removed and expected to speak at a future conference.
HHS reportedly said it is investigating whether the APA violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act. The Brandeis Center said its goal is ensuring the APA complies with federal civil rights law and does not discriminate against Jewish members while receiving federal funds.
