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

Alexandria, Va. (February 19, 2025)— 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. He brings more than two decades of experience advancing mental health access, strengthening professional standards and shaping impactful national legislation. Banks previously worked at ACA from 2019–2024, serving for four years as ACA’s chief government affairs and public policy officer.

“We are thrilled to welcome Brian back to ACA. At a time when policy and advocacy efforts are a central concern for our organization, it’s exciting to have Brian’s deep knowledge in this area as a resource,” said ACA Governing Council President M. Elsa Soto Leggett, PhD. “Given his ongoing commitment to advancing the counseling profession, as well as his skill in relationship development and organizational leadership, we knew he was the right person to lead our organization into its next phase. We look forward to seeing ACA grow and flourish under his leadership.”

Prior to re-joining ACA as CEO, Banks served as the executive director of the Policy, Advocacy & Research in Counseling Center and chief government affairs officer at the National Board for Certified Counselors, where he led national policy strategy, research initiatives, legislative engagement and organizational growth. He drove operational oversight and strategic innovation through initiatives such as developing artificial intelligence regulatory guidance for the federal government and state regulatory agencies in all 50 states and U.S. territories.

As ACA’s chief government affairs and public policy officer, Banks transformed the association’s advocacy program into a nationally recognized leader in the mental health policy space. Under his leadership, ACA achieved historic legislative wins — including expanding Medicare provider eligibility for counselors — and delivered record‑breaking increases in grassroots engagement.

Earlier in his career, Banks held senior policy and advocacy roles across federal, corporate and nonprofit sectors, including serving as legislative liaison for the secretary of the Air Force at the Pentagon. He has also driven community‑impact initiatives through leadership positions at MGM Resorts International and the Capital Area Food Bank.

Known for his strategic vision, collaborative leadership and commitment to equitable access to mental health care, Banks brings a forward‑thinking, mission‑centered approach to leading ACA into its next chapter.

“ACA has always supported the profession with empathy and works to amplify the needed impact for counselors through community and partnerships. As I step into the role as CEO of the American Counseling Association, I am committed to a future where every counselor — from our graduate students to those who are preparing to retire — are supported in their journey,” Banks said. “ACA will provide mentorship that guides, resources that equip, and we will collaborate with our partners to strengthen our voice across the country and globally. Together, we will nurture resilience, champion well-being, and ensure every counselor has a home here at ACA, and that we will remain a reliable resource for all people. The strength of ACA is the people, and together we will work to protect and promote the profession for generations to come.”

For more information, contact news@counseling.org or karen@addispr.com.

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About the American Counseling Association
Founded in 1952, the American Counseling Association (ACA) is a not-for-profit, professional and educational organization that is dedicated to the growth and enhancement of the counseling profession. ACA represents more than 62,000 members and is the world’s largest association exclusively representing professional counselors in various practice settings. Driven by the belief that all people can benefit from the power of counseling, ACA’s mission is to promote the professional development of counselors, advocate for counselors, and ensure that ethical, culturally inclusive practices protect our members’ clients and all people who seek counseling services. For more information, visit the ACA website and follow them on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, BlueSky and YouTube.