ACA News

Call for Editors: Second Edition of The ACA Encyclopedia of Counseling

In celebration of the American Counseling Association’s 75th anniversary in 2027, ACA is pleased to announce the development of a fully revised and expanded second edition of the ACA Encyclopedia of Counseling, originally published in 2009.

Public Policy & Legislative Committee (PPLC) Corner

NCC The Public Policy and Legislative Committee (PPLC) continues to inform the counseling community of legislative changes that will impact students, clients and communities throughout the nation.

American Counseling Association Announces Syvonne Carter as Interim CEO

The American Counseling Association (ACA), the largest U.S. membership organization serving professional counselors and counselors in training, is pleased to announce the appointment of Syvonne Carter as Interim Chief Executive Officer.

The Department of Education Announces Cancellation of $1 Billion in Mental Health Funding

The Department of Education is canceling $1 billion in school mental health funding—including grants aimed at supporting counselor professional development—due to opposition to grant language that encouraged diversifying the mental health workforce.

Executive Order on College Accreditation Process

On April 23, 2025, the Trump Administration issued an Executive Order (EO) and fact sheet directing an “overhaul” of the college accreditation process, stating that universities must maintain accreditation to receive federal financial aid.

Medicaid Cuts Threaten State Behavioral Health Systems

Proposals to cut Medicaid by up to $880 billion over the next decade have raised concerns among state leaders and health officials. 

ACA Public Policy & Legislative Committee (PPLC) Corner

The PPLC is comprised of counseling professionals within the ACA dedicated to addressing legislative issues that impact our profession. We serve as a liaison between members of the counseling profession and ACA staff focused on addressing public policy.

Modern Medicaid Alliance Membership & Engagement

ACA has secured membership in the Modern Medicaid Alliance (MMA), a coalition of 125+ organizations, including the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.

Unpacking Executive Orders: What They Mean for K-12 Schools & LGBTQ+ Students

Recent executive orders are shaping the landscape for K-12 education, with major implications for LGBTQ+ students and families.

Advocacy Highlights from the 2025 ACA Conference & Expo

The 2025 ACA Conference & Expo was a wonderful few days filled with engaging sessions, moving speakers and opportunities for fellowship. Here are a few advocacy highlights from the event...

Cuts to the Health and Human Services Department

The Trump Administration has begun a reduction in force for the Health and Human Services Department (HHS). The Administration plans to lay off up to 10,000 employees across several agencies within the department.

ACA Awards Recognize Achievement and Excellence in Professional Counseling

Orlando, Fla. (March 27, 2025) — Each year, the American Counseling Association (ACA) recognizes excellence in research, career and humanitarian achievement among counseling professionals and students with its awards and honors program.

Counseling Experts Present Latest Research at the 2025 ACA Conference & Expo, March 27-29 in Orlando, Fla.

More than 150 posters to be presented covering nicotine dependence and cognitive function among young adults to mental health implications of forced family separation at the border and more.

ACA Conference to Feature Sessions on Climate Change, Today’s Political Landscape, Impact of the Loneliness Epidemic on Youth & More

The 2025 ACA Conference & Expo, the premier professional development and networking event for professional counselors, will feature 200+ education sessions, organized across 24 mental health and counseling topic areas.

Boynes Announces Departure; ACA Governing Council Announces Plans for Interim Leadership

Shawn Boynes, CEO, has announced his departure effective April 15, 2025. During his tenure, Boynes oversaw a 10% cumulative revenue growth, implemented a focused strategic plan, & launched the ACA Strategic Partner Network.

Continuing Resolution Extends Telehealth Through September

On March 14, Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the federal government through September 30. This averted a federal government shutdown and largely maintains federal funding levels...

Counseling Compact Update: Committee Hearings in New Mexico and Nevada

On February 26, the Nevada General Assembly Committee on Commerce and Labor held a hearing on the Counseling Compact legislation.

Highlighting Advocacy Tools

Share Your Parity Story - We’re collecting counselors’ stories! These personal accounts leave a lasting impression on policymakers and are an opportunity to use your experiences to enact change.  

Advocacy Section Updates!

We are excited to share our updated Advocacy webpages with you- we hope these changes will help you get more involved in ACA advocacy and quickly find needed resources!

Artificial Intelligence Policy and Counseling

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly and becoming increasingly embedded in everyday life. While it has the potential to revolutionize the counseling profession, enhancing both practice and accessibility, it also presents significant risks.