Press Release

Press Release

M. Elsa Soto Leggett Begins Term as American Counseling Association President

Elsa Soto Leggett, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, professor and practicum/internship coordinator at Truman State University and sole proprietor of Shelter Counseling and Supervision, began her term as ACA 2025–2026 president on July 1.

Latest News


  • ACA Media Spotlight: Research Shows Pets Can Make Golden Years Better
    Dec 22, 2015|1 min read

    ACA member Charlene Kampfe recently shared her insights with the Arizona Daily Star about the benefits of pet ownership, such as how being responsible for an animal can boost feelings of self-worth.

  • ACA in the News: Handle With Care
    Dec 21, 2015|1 min read

    Last week, ACA member Dr. Carol Smith was interviewed by West Virginia MetroNews Radio about Handle with Care, an initiative developed by the West Virginia Center for Children?s Justice in which Charleston police officers notify schools after children ...

  • ACA Media Spotlight: Tips to Get Through the Holiday Blues
    Dec 18, 2015|1 min read

    ACA member Lauren Ostrowski recently wrote an article for InspireMeToday.com in which she provides helpful tips for managing the holiday blues.

Media Mentions


Burrow Blueprint Tackles Mental Health in Appalachian Schools

Published November 18, 2025 on The Post

Nationwide Children’s Hospital and The Joe Burrow Foundation have partnered on a new program, the Burrow Blueprint, to provide and support mental health treatment in Appalachian Ohio schools. ACA Past President Christine Suniti Bhat explains the importance of providing mental health services to students in rural Appalachian Ohio. Read Full Article

Protecting Kids and Teens on TikTok

Aired September 25, 2025 on Spectrum News Columbus

More should be done to combat the dark side of social media that can endanger kids and teenagers. ACA Past President Christine Suniti Bhat discusses the dangers of social media, its influence on societal pressures on young people and the role of parental supervision in protecting them. Watch the News Segment

AI Therapist Might Be Illegal Soon. Here’s Why

Published August 27, 2025 in CNN

As AI chatbots become a popular way to access cost-free counseling and companionship, a patchwork of state regulation is emerging, restricting how the technology can be used in therapy practice. ACA’s AI work group member Russell Fulmer provides insight on using AI in counseling in this article. Read Full Article

Moving to a New Home or School Can Stress Kids Out. How to Make it More Manageable

Published August 19, 2025 on Associated Press

Transitioning to a new home or school environment can be an anxious time for kids, with worries about making new friends and adapting to new routines. ACA’s President Elect Victoria Kress provides insight on how these changes can affect kids. Read Full Article