Press Release

Press Release

Brian D. Banks Joins the American Counseling Association as Its Next CEO

The American Counseling Association (ACA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian D. Banks as its new chief executive officer. Banks is a nationally recognized leader in government affairs, public policy and strategic advocacy.

Latest News


  • Ohio Becomes the 3rd State to Grant Counseling Compact Privileges
    Jan 5, 2026|3 min read

    The American Counseling Association (ACA) is thrilled to announce that Ohio is the latest state to begin granting privileges under the Counseling Compact, marking another significant milestone in expanding access to mental health care.

  • Affordable Care Act Marketplace Subsidies
    Dec 18, 2025|3 min read

    As of Dec. 17, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace subsidies have not been extended.Despite weeks long debate and several proposed bills, Congress has failed to pass legislation that would extend subsidies for the ACA Marketplace.

  • SUPPORT Act Reauthorization Becomes Law
    Dec 10, 2025|2 min read

    The SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025 (SUPPORT Act) was signed into law on December 1, 2025. The legislation reauthorizes and updates FY2026–FY2030 funding for a range of grant programs.

Media Mentions


When It Feels Like Your Family Is Making Your Depression Worse

Published April, 2026 on WebMD

Criticism from family members on the care of loved ones with depression can worsen a care giver’s own depression. ACA President Elect Victoria Kress and Shari Moody, discuss how care givers can manage their depression and how they can deal with family members. Read the Full Article

AI & U: Taking Your Chatbot on a Dinner Date

Published February 16, 2026 on NBC News New York

AI developers are creating opportunities to explore relationships with chatbots and to use AI technology to search for human companionship. However, results from a new survey of over 700 ACA counselors show concern about developing unhealthy dependencies on chatbots. Watch the Video

AI & U: How Artificial Intelligence is Leading to Anxiety in the Workforce

Published February 13, 2026 on NBC News New York

There’s growing concern about the ability of AI to displace humans in the workforce. ACA’s AI Work Group co-chair, Russell Fulmer, talks with NBC News about what counselors are hearing from their clients. Watch the Video

AI & U: Could ‘Grief Bots’ Be a Source of Comfort, or a Mental Health Risk?

Published February 11, 2026 on NBC News New York

Emerging AI technology is making it possible to create AI versions of deceased loved ones. But in a new survey of ACA counselors, 89% says that these new grief bots interrupt the grieving process. Watch the Video