Division 17 - Counseling Psychology was founded in 1946 to promote personal, educational, vocational, and group adjustment in a variety of settings.

Presently, Division 17 brings together psychologists, students, and international and professional affiliates who are dedicated to promoting education and training, scientific investigation, practice, and diversity and public interest in professional psychology. Division 17 advocates for Counseling Psychology within the field of psychology and in the public sector. Division 17 also supports, encourages, and promotes its members and celebrates their diversity.

Division 17 strives to meet the particular interests and needs of its member. This is accomplished through the formation of sections which are formal organizations designed to promote issues in interest areas, and special interest groups which are informal groups representing a variety of interest areas.