American Counseling Association (ACA)

Description

The American Counseling Association is a not-for-profit, professional and educational organization that is dedicated to the growth and enhancement of the counseling profession. Founded in 1952, ACA is the world's largest association exclusively representing professional counselors in various practice settings.

By providing leadership training, publications, continuing education opportunities, and advocacy services to nearly 44,000 members, ACA helps counseling professionals develop their skills and expand their knowledge base.

ACA has been instrumental in setting professional and ethical standards for the counseling profession. The association has made considerable strides in accreditation, licensure, and national certification. It also represents the interests of the profession before congress and federal agencies, and strives to promote recognition of professional counselors to the p

Member benefits

Leadership training, an award winning monthly newspaper, books, audiotapes, videotapes, and journals, continuing education opportunities, and advocacy services. The Association has a Code of Ethics which defines specifically the ethical practice of members, clarifying the nature of ethical responsibilities of all its members.

Mission / Aims

Vision
The American Counseling Association is the publicly recognized organization to which all professional counselors belong.

Mission
The mission of the American Counseling Association is to enhance the quality of life in society by promoting the development of professional counselors, advancing the counseling profession, and using the profession and practice of counseling to promote respect for human dignity and diversity.

Principal activities

One major convention, four region leadership training meetings. Most state branches hold an annual convention as well.

Training / Licensing / Certification

40-50 National workshops are held at the annual convention, as well as 500 education sessions, offering continuing education units.

Affiliations

We are member of:

Chi Sigma Iota (CSI)