Brazos Valley Psychological Association

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ABOUT US

MISSION AND PURPOSE

We are the professional organization for mental health professionals in the Brazos Valley, including Brazos, Grimes, Robertson, Madison, Leon, Burleson and Washington counties.

The mission of the Brazos Valley Psychological Association is to support the professional interests of its members, promote and protect the science and practice of psychology, and advocate for the mental health of individuals within the Association’s geographical region. We are dedicated to fostering the growth and development of our members throughout their educational and professional careers. To achieve this, we help our members stay informed about current evidence-based practices, as well as legal and ethical issues, ensuring the highest quality mental health services in our community. Additionally, we encourage advocacy for the psychology profession and keep members updated on legislative changes. We welcome all professionals in the mental health field, including marriage and family therapists, social workers, professional counselors, and students pursuing degrees in mental health.

HISTORY

The Brazos Valley Psychological Association (BVPA) has its roots dating back to the 1980s,
when dedicated psychologists, including Dr. Dale Simpson, Dr. Ron Lutz, Dr. Brian Stagner, and
Dr. Lanes Hope, recognized the need to connect local psychologists in the Brazos Valley. They
helped create the foundation for a community built on support, collaboration, and shared
purpose.

By the 1990s, the field of psychology had begun experiencing significant shifts due to new
business models, stricter regulations, and changes to state licensing boards. As continuing
education grew in importance, BVPA stepped in to provide vital resources for local
professionals. With two psychiatric hospitals operating in the Bryan-College Station area and
employing many psychologists, BVPA became an active participant in essential discussions
surrounding mental health care.

A milestone in the association’s history occurred on July 26, 1996, when BVPA received its first
formal recognition, as reflected in a bank statement. Dr. Brian Williams, one of the
organization’s longest-serving treasurers, made a significant contribution to BVPA’s financial
foundation. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the association faced challenges, including
declining membership and reduced participation.

In 2004, efforts to grow the association began, gaining momentum in 2015 under the leadership
of key members, including Dr. Jennifer Rockett, Dr. Celeste Riley, and Dr. Eden Schmeichel.
Together, they strengthened BVPA’s continuing education programs and successfully attracted
new members. Dr. Schmeichel was mainly instrumental in connecting BVPA with the Texas
Psychological Association (TPA) and advocating for meaningful legislative change.

In 2020, BVPA expanded its mission to include not only licensed psychologists but also other
mental health professionals, students, and community volunteers, thereby creating a more
inclusive and welcoming environment. A significant achievement followed on November 1,
2023, when BVPA officially became a Texas Nonprofit Corporation. Shortly after, on December
7, the association was granted 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status by the IRS, thanks to the guidance and
leadership of Dr. Ted Stachowiak.

Today, BVPA serves as a valuable resource for mental health professionals throughout the
Brazos Valley. This association is dedicated to improving continuing education, advocating for
supportive legislation, and promoting meaningful community engagement.
Special appreciation to Dr. Brian Stagner, Dr. Jennifer Rockett, Dr. Celeste Riley, and Dr. Ted
Stachowiak for generously taking the time to answer questions and share their insights.

Written by Yadira Colunga Reyes (BVPA Newsletter Editor)

ORGANIZATIONAL TAX STRUCTURE

BVPA is a Texas Nonprofit Corporation and Charitable Organization.

In November 2023, the Texas Secretary of State certified BVPA as a Texas nonprofit corporation. In December 2023, the IRS issued a Letter of Determination recognizing BVPA as a nonprofit (501(c)3) charitable organization.

In the months ahead we will share more about how these significant changes will benefit BVPA as a professional organization and us as members. Brief examples include:

Accessing banking and other financial services, software applications to improve our functioning as an organization, available to nonprofit, charitable organizations at substantially reduced or no cost.

Receiving tax deductible contributions.

Gaining access to revenue sources, such as grants, that further BVPA’s educational and professional development mission.

BVPA is unique as a Local Area Society of the Texas Psychological Association. Your support and participation as members are what makes this possible.

Relationship to other organizations: The Brazos Valley Psychological Association is an independent local organization which is voluntarily affiliated with the Texas Psychological Association through its charter as a local area society. It recognizes and supports the standards of the American Psychological Association.

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