These are unprecedented times to be a psychologist.

When we chose this profession, we imagined supporting individuals and families through life's challenges. Few of us expected to hold space through a global pandemic, collective trauma, and escalating political hostility toward marginalized communities.

Yet here we are.

Psychologists now sit at the intersection of grief, anxiety, identity-based harm, burnout, and moral injury. We lead with our hearts while balancing multiple roles as clinicians, supervisors, educators, advocates, parents, and community leaders. We care deeply for others while navigating our own well-being.

This message arrives in March 2026 because SVPA intentionally powered down at the start of the year to care for one another during a season of transition and challenge. Pausing was not disengagement. It was sustainable leadership.

Advocacy has shaped my work since my early years organizing in San Francisco and continues through my clinical, forensic, and statewide leadership roles. But this presidency is not about one person. It is about co-leadership.

Our focus this year is care activism. We will strengthen connection among members while engaging in principled advocacy. The American Psychological Association has issued a clear call to action at the local, state, and federal levels. Psychology cannot remain silent when our communities need evidence-based care and ethical leadership.

SVPA will prioritize meaningful opportunities for connection, mentorship, collaboration, and service to the greater Sacramento region.

We cannot do this alone.

If you have capacity to serve, mentor, organize, advocate, or support the Board in any way, we invite you to step forward. Shared leadership builds collective resilience.

I have deep confidence in our members. Together, we will care for one another, advocate with integrity, and ensure psychology remains a force for healing and dignity in our community.

SVPA thrives because of you.

With respect, resolve, and love to you and yours.

Dr. Tristan Buzzini

President, Sacramento Valley Psychological Association