Does Virginia Tech know about this?

Yes. This effort was inititated by the Virginia Tech counselor education program and is being conducted with the full approval of the Virginia Tech counseling center. Both telephone and in-person meetings between ACA and Virginia Tech have been held to ensure coordination. If you would like to confirm that this is a legitimate partnership with Virginia Tech, please call VT's Cook Counseling Center at 540-231-6557.

How many members of the American Counseling Association are participating?

We have an initial 1000 ACA members all across the United States participating and will add more over subsequent weeks.

How do I know that the counselors in the directory are qualified?

All volunteers listed in the directory are members of the American Counseling Association or an ACA branch and hold a state license to practice professional counseling.

How do I find a participating professional counselor?

View the Pro Bono Counselor Directory.

How do I make my first appointment?

Simply call or e-mail a counselor in the directory who is within traveling distance.

How many sessions may I have?

All of the volunteers in the directory have agreed to provide up to five sessions at no charge while you are off campus during the summer. If additional sessions are needed, your counselor will discuss the options available.

What if I would like counseling after I return to the Virginia Tech campus?

Please visit the Cook Counseling Center at 240 McComas Hall or call them at 540-231-6557.

How do I know that my counselor is licensed to practice professional counseling?

As part of getting to know your counselor, we recommend that you discuss his or her credentials including licensure.

Are these pro-bono sessions for a crisis or emergency?

No. Due to the need to for immediate assistance, if you are in crisis or have an emergency situation please call 911 or go directly to your nearest hospital emergency room.

What if there is no counselor within traveling distance of my summer residence or I am having trouble making an appointment?

Please contact ACA's Chief Professional Officer, David Kaplan, at dkaplan@counseling.org or 800-347-6647 ext. 397. ACA will make every effort to locate a licensed mental health provider in your area who is willing to participate in this initiative.

How do I find out more about the American Counseling Association?

Please explore their website at www.counseling.org. There is a student section for those interested in learning more about graduate work in professional counseling.