In this issue readers will find:
- California Licensure Approved in Legislature, Awaiting Schwarzenegger Signature
- Cybersex Addiction Subject of New ACA Podcast
- Call for Applications for ACA Ethics Director Position
- NBCC Foundation to Award Scholarships for Military, Rural Counselors
- Study Finds Worrying About Job Loss Greater Health Problem than Unemployment
- Public Universities Get Poor Report Card
- Professional Resiliency of Hurricane Care Providers: Direct Link to Study
- Cal State Student Wins ACAF Essay Competition
- Help Grow the ACA-ACES Syllabus Clearinghouse
- Reliable Resource: NIMH Booklet on Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
- New ACA Guide Examines Ethical Dilemmas
- Working Mothers Practice Range of Discipline Styles
- ACA Committee Nominations due December 1st
- Grants: Paraprofessional Training and Parent Involvement Initiatives
- ACA Insurance Trust Announces New Dental Insurance Plan
- Calendar: ACES, NE, NM, WV, LA, AK, KY, and PA to Hold Conferences
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California Licensure Approved in Legislature, Awaiting Schwarzenegger Signature
The counseling profession's long-standing goal of achieving recognition in all 50 states is a major step closer to completion. In the final hours of its legislative session, the California legislature approved a bill establishing licensure of professional clinical counselors in the state. California is the only state yet to establish formal recognition of professional counselors.
The California Assembly approved SB 788 by a strong 70-5 vote on September 8th, followed two days later by a 25-1 vote in the California Senate. The bill now goes to Governor Schwarzenegger for his consideration. The governor has until October 11th to either sign the legislation into law or issue a veto. ACA encourages its members in California to contact the Governor to urge him to sign the counselor licensure legislation into law. For more information, visit the website of the California Coalition for Counselor Licensure (CCCL) at
Approval of SB 788 is a hard-fought victory for CCCL and for the counseling profession. SB 788 would establish the title of "licensed professional clinical counselor," defining the practice of counseling to include "interventions and psychotherapeutic techniques to identify and remediate cognitive, mental, and emotional issues, including personal growth, adjustment to disability, crisis intervention, and psychosocial and environmental problems." CCCL had to incorporate several amendments to the licensure bill in order to remove opposition from other professional organizations. For example, the legislation states that "professional clinical counseling" does not include the "assessment or treatment of couples or families" unless the counselor has completed specific education and training in this area.
ACA has long supported the licensure effort, and applauds California's counselors for this accomplishment. Stay tuned---ACA will send an email to all members once the victory is truly final!
Cybersex Addiction Subject of New ACA Podcast
In the latest addition to the ACA Podcast series, Dr. Chris Kraft, Co-Director of Clinical Services for the Sexual Behaviors Consultation Unit at Johns Hopkins University Medical Center, discusses cybersex addiction and the role that counselors play in treating individuals with this disorder. In Podcast HT012 - Cybersex Addiction (Running Time: 51.38), Dr. Kraft answers the following questions:
- How might a counselor assess problematic and/or compulsive/addictive on-line sexual activities?
- What are the different online avenues people use to engage in sexual activities?
- What drives these compulsive/addictive sexual behaviors?
- How might a counselor begin treating a client with cybersex addiction behaviors?
Questions about the podcast series available only to ACA members can be directed to Rebecca Daniel- Burke at rdanielburke@counseling.org.
Call for Applications for ACA Ethics Director Position
Director Of Ethics & Professional Standards
ACA is currently seeking a full time Director, Ethics & Professional Standards to work at our Headquarters office in Alexandria, VA. Responsibilities include serving as ACA's Ethics Officer and providing ethics consultation on the ACA Code of Ethics, directing and monitoring the ethical adjudication process, advising and assisting the Chair or Co-Chairs of ACA's Ethics Committee as appropriate, maintaining accurate and appropriate records, serving as the central resource for inquiries related to state licensure and developing materials to assist counselors in the advocacy of the counseling profession. Requirements include a graduate degree in counseling (state license and/or national certification a plus), experience as a practitioner and an identity as a professional counselor. Publications/presentations in the area of ethics and professional standards are a plus.
The ideal candidate will have knowledge of the 2005 ACA Code of Ethics plus knowledge of professional counseling, licensure and reimbursement issues. You will also possess an ability and interest in helping professional counselors from all specialties and have excellent written and verbal skills, along with superior organizational abilities. Send letter of application, vita, complete contact information of three references and salary history to Cindy Welch, Chief of Staff, ACA, 5999 Stevenson Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22304; cwelch@counseling.org; fax 703-823-0953. Background checks are required. ACA is an AA/EOE organization and encourages minorities and women to apply.
NBCC Foundation to Award Scholarships for Military, Rural Counselors
The National Board for Certified Counselors Foundation Board of Trustees has created new scholarships for military personnel and individuals from rural areas seeking to enter the counseling profession. The scholarships are the Foundation's first ongoing funding program since its creation in 2005. They are intended to expand access to counseling services in those areas with the greatest need.
The scholarships promote the NBCC Foundation's mission of increasing access to mental health care through professional counseling services.
Study Finds Worrying About Job Loss Greater Health Problem than Unemployment
According to University of Michigan sociologist Sarah Burgard and her colleagues, job insecurity and fear of job loss can be more damaging to a person's health than actually getting the pink slip. The researchers analyzed data from two nationally representative sample surveys on almost 2,000 adults. One survey was conducted between 1986 and 1989, the other between 1995 and 2005.
Featured in the September edition of Social Science & Medicine, the report states that ambiguity about the future, inability to take action unless termination actually occurs, and lack of employer support regarding worker insecurity represent three significant factors that contribute to health declines.
Public Universities Get Poor Report Card
A recent Inside Higher Ed story reported on the public higher education shortcomings outlined in a new book: assertions that state controlled institutions are doing a poor job in awarding degrees. Crossing the Finish Line: Completing College at America's Public Universities reports on data collected from 21 flagship universities and several state university systems. In issuing their report card, the researchers gave public universities the poorest grades in graduating low-come and black male students and said little institution change appears underway to address the deficit. The story addresses two "hot button" issues; the failure of public universities to promote the four-year standard in degree attainment and the inability of standardized tests to adequately predict success in college.
Professional Resiliency of Hurricane Care Providers: Direct Link to Study
In the last ACAeNews, there was an error in providing the most direct connection for counselors who have provided care during the periods following Hurricane(s) Rita, Gustov, or Ike. The Virginia Tech study on resiliency and counselor wellness, sponsored by ACA, can be accessed at
Cal State Student Wins ACAF Essay Competition
Julie J. Wells, a graduate student at California State University - Fullerton, is the 2009 winner of the American Counseling Association Foundation Student Essay Competition. Her winning essay addressed the issue of whether the counseling profession is taking adequate steps to meet the changing demographics of the nation. Wells received a $500 cash award and ACA membership for one year.
The very competitive runner-up essays were contributed by Deborah May Berghuis (Eastern University), Amy C. Stone (Mennonite Brethern Biblical Seminary), Charles Dustin Johnson (Georgia State University), and Mary Ann Williams (University of Florida). Each received one year membership in ACA. The five essays are posted on the ACA website.
Help Grow the ACA-ACES Syllabus Clearinghouse
If you are a counselor educator, please consider submitting your fall course syllabi to the ACA/ACES Syllabus Clearinghouse. About 300 syllabi are now included and we would like to see this number grow! In addition, with the inaugural contributions of Wake Forest University and Florida Atlantic University, the Clearinghouse is now accepting department syllabi.
It's easy to do! New and revised syllabi can be submitted by clicking on
The ACA-ACES Syllabus Clearinghouse is a highly successful benefit for members. In the first five months of operation, the clearinghouse was searched almost 4,000 times.
Reliable Resource: NIMH Booklet on Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that 18% of American adults and an undetermined percentage of youth experience anxiety disorder, including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). As a part of its consumer education series, NIMH has published When Unwanted Thoughts Take Over: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder that explains what it is, when it starts, how long it lasts, and how to get help.
New ACA Guide Examines Ethical Dilemmas
This new ACA pocket guide, Ethics Desk Reference for Counselors, is designed to help counselors in diverse settings interpret and apply the ACA Code of Ethics in order to prevent and resolve ethical dilemmas. In the book, each standard of the ACA Code is translated in jargon-free language, followed by a discussion of common challenges associated with the standard, and a list of recommendations for maintaining ethical, preventive practice in that area. The book was written by two highly respected ethics scholars, Jeffrey E. Barnett and W. Brad Johnson.
The book includes an ethical decision-making model and specific, practical strategies for responding to issues frequently faced by counselors such as:
- Confidentiality
- Suicidal clients
- Boundary issues
- Gifts and bartering
- Competence
- Culture and diversity
- Supervision
- Responses to subpoenas, lawsuits, court orders, ethical complaints
And many more
Order through the ACA website www.counseling.org or by phone 800-422-2648, ext. 222.
2010 | 224 pages
Order #72893
ISBN 978-1-55620-298-8
List price: $44.95
Member price: $32.95
Working Mothers Practice Range of Discipline Styles
A recent survey on discipline style conducted by MyWorkButterfly.com, a social networking site offering free resources to mothers heading back into the workforce, found a mix of parental approaches. The online survey found 37 percent of responders favor assigning a "time-out," 24 percent threaten, 18 percent yell, 12 percent are inclined to ignore negative behavior, and 9 percent spank their children. MyWorkButterfly.com presents timely resources to working moms and return-to-work moms.
ACA Committee Nominations Due December 1st
Is this the time in your professional life when you would like to become more involved in association activities, using your talent and time to make a difference? President-Elect Marcheta Evans is seeking nominations for ACA committee appointments for terms beginning July 1, 2010. She will be appointing professional committee members who will serve a three-year term and a student representative for a one-year term.
Positions on the following committees will be available beginning July 1, 2010: Awards, Branch Development, Bylaws and Policies, Ethics, Graduate Student, Human Rights, International, Interprofessional, Professional Standards, Public Awareness and Support, Public Policy and Legislation, Publications, and Research and Knowledge. ACA members may nominate themselves or be nominated by other ACA members, but are encouraged to review the nomination packet before submitting. For more information about the nominations process, call Holly Clubb at 800-347-6647, ext. 212 or e-mail her at hclubb@counseling.org .
Grants: Paraprofessional Training and Parent Involvement Initiatives
Personnel Development to Improve Services and Results for Children with Disabilities - Paraprofessional Pre-service Program Improvement Grants
The U.S. Department of Education is seeking grant applications design to improve the quality of paraprofessional pre-service education programs for individuals engaged in associate degree programs at colleges and universities. The ultimate goal is to strengthen the quality of education and care-giving for children with disabilities and their families. $1.5 million will be awarded for up to ten grants. Deadline: November 3, 2009.
Lowe's Toolbox for Education Parent Engagement Grants
The Lowe's Toolbox for Education grants fund school improvement projects that engage parents in educational endeavors and promote community service. Eligible applicants: K-12 schools (including public, charter, parochial, and private or parent groups associated with a non-profit K-12 school). Maximum award: $5,000. Deadline: November 3, 2009.
ACA Insurance Trust Announces New Dental Insurance Plan
Group Dental Insurance is now available to ACA members through MetLife. Watch for further information in Counseling Today, or call the Trust at 800-347-6647, ext. 284.
Calendar: WV, LA, AK, KY, and PA to Hold Conferences
Professional Meetings and Conferences
October 1-3
West Virginia Counseling Association
Days Hotel, Flatwoods, WV
October 4-7
Louisiana Counseling Association
Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center, Baton Rouge, LA
October 7-9
Alaska Counseling Association
Hotel Captain Hook, Anchorage, AK
October 10-14
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision
Theme: Transformative Actions - Expanding Social Respect and Relational Consciousness
Town & Country Resort and Convention Center, San Diego, CA
October 21-23
Kentucky Counseling Association
Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel, Louisville, KY
October 30-November 1
Pennsylvania Counseling Association
Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel, State College, PA
Advocacy Observances during October, 2009
National Depression Screening Day (October 8, 2009)
Sponsor: Screening for Mental Health, Inc.
National Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 5-11, 2009)
Sponsor: National Alliance on Mental Illness
National Drug-Free Workplace Week (October 19-25, 2009)
Sponsor: Working Partners for an Alcohol- and Drug-Free Workplace
National Disability in Employment Awareness Month
Sponsor: Office of Disability Employment Policy
National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Sponsor: Domestic Violence Awareness Project, National Resource Center on Domestic Violence.
Divisions, Branches, and Regions are valuable sources of learning and professional development. Information on events will be posted approximately 8-10 weeks prior. This information is made available to ACAeNews via the ACA master calendar and the various organization web sites. Send calendar items to dbrown@counseling.org. Please provide the sponsor, dates, site and contact person information. Information posted here is restricted to that sponsored by ACA divisions, branches, regions and related organizations.
ABOUT ACAeNews
ACAeNews is published 24 times annually by the American Counseling Association for the benefit of members across the counseling profession. Any reference to a product, service, activity, or listing of a website in ACAeNews does not imply endorsement by ACA. Any views and opinions are those of the sponsoring organization and may or may not be shared by ACA.
Direct comments, questions, and submissions to fburtnett@counseling.org. All submissions will be subject to review by ACA for accuracy, timeliness, and relevance to the readership and may be edited.
Lynn E. Linde, President
llinde@loyola.edu
Richard Yep, CAE, Executive Director
ryep@counseling.org
Debra Bass, Director of Marketing and Communications
dbass@counseling.org
Frank Burtnett, NCC, NCCC, ACAeNews Editor
fburtnett@counseling.org
Don Kenneally, Internet Development / Production
dkenneally@counseling.org
ACA Website: www.counseling.org
Copyright 2009, American Counseling Association, 5999 Stevenson Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22304. Telephone: 703-823-9800. Email: fburtnett@counseling.org. Permission is hereby granted to reproduce anything contained in this newsletter as long as the American Counseling Association is identified as the original source of the information.
CONTACT INFORMATION
American Counseling Association
5999 Stevenson Ave. Alexandria, VA 22304
800.347.6647 | 800.473.2329 (fax)
Copyright 2009, American Counseling Association, All Rights Reserved.