ACA provides professional development for counselors through on-line continuing education, the annual convention, books, videotapes, journals, Counseling Today, and, of course, our website. ACA also has resources for the consumer: what is a professional counselor, who is qualified to provide counseling services, how to find a counselor, coping with crisis, helping children cope with trauma, answers to common questions about counseling, and much more.
So whether you are a consumer, graduate student, new professional, or seasoned professional counselor, ACA is your portal to the world of counseling!
'ACA Is Where You Belong' - Discover ACA Student Membership
In an effort to assist you with your student presentations, ACA has assembled the following PowerPoint presentation, "Discover ACA Student Membership". In addition to the PowerPoint presentation, we have developed "Talking Points" to assist you in your presentation. Read more...
Are You Getting The Most Bang for your Dues Buck?
There are a host of benefits and services ACA offers members. Take this quick online tour to make sure you're taking advantage of them!
Definition of Counseling
On October 28, 2010, the ACA Governing Council approved a new definition of counseling, per the recommendation of the 20/20: A Vision for the Future of Counseling program. The definition, which may be customized for counseling specialties is:
Counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals.
ACA 'Stop Bullying Campaign'
ACA is once again partnering with the "Stop Bullying: Take a Stand; Lend a Hand" campaign, directed by the US Department of Health and Human Services. Resources about bullying and its effects on young people are available at: http://www.stopbullying.gov.
Competencies
ACA Public Policy Resources – access information on state student-to-counselor ratios, school counseling research, loan forgiveness, counselor certification/licensure requirements, mental health professions statistics, mental health/school counseling funding opportunities, how to communicate with legislators, FERPA, and more!