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Brian D. Banks is a nationally recognized leader in government affairs, public policy and strategic advocacy who currently serves as chief executive officer of the ÀÖ²©´«Ã½ (ACA). With more than two decades of experience, Banks has built a reputation for advancing access to mental health care, strengthening professional standards and shaping impactful legislation at the national level. His appointment as ACA’s CEO in February 2026 reflects both his deep expertise in policy and his longstanding commitment to the counseling profession.

Banks previously served at ÀÖ²©´«Ã½from 2019 to 2024 as chief government affairs and public policy officer, where he played a pivotal role in elevating the association’s influence in the mental health policy space. During his tenure, he led major advocacy initiatives that resulted in historic legislative achievements, including expanding Medicare provider eligibility for counselors and significantly increasing grassroots engagement across the profession. His work helped position ÀÖ²©´«Ã½as a leading voice in promoting policies that improve access to care and support counselors nationwide.

Before returning to ÀÖ²©´«Ã½as CEO, Banks held senior leadership roles at the National Board for Certified Counselors, serving as executive director of the Policy, Advocacy & Research in Counseling Center and as chief government affairs officer. In these roles, he directed national policy strategy, legislative engagement and research initiatives, while also driving innovation in areas such as the development of artificial intelligence regulatory guidance for federal and state governments.

Earlier in his career, Banks held influential policy and advocacy positions across government, corporate and nonprofit sectors, including serving as a White House Community Leader where he focused on increasing awareness around safety-net access, and as legislative liaison supporting the Secretary of the Airforce in strategy and engagement efforts with the U.S. Congress. He has also led community- initiatives through roles with organizations such as MGM Resorts International and the Capital Area Food Bank. He currently serves as a consumer member of the Maryland Pharmacy Board and is heavily involved with community support efforts in the Washington, D.C., region.

In his spare time, Banks enjoys traveling and immersing himself in new cultural experiences, exposing himself to new people and cuisines. He enjoys boating, flying planes and riding motorcycles. Most of all, with everything he does, he aims to do it while spending time with his family and friends.