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By Jordan Westcott & Maddie Stevens

Hello from the Public Policy & Legislative Committee (PPLC!) We’re excited to introduce ourselves in the new Advocacy Updates. The PPLC is comprised of counseling professionals within the ÀÖ²©´«Ã½dedicated to addressing legislative issues that impact our profession. We serve as a liaison between members of the counseling profession—counselors, students or counselor educators—and ÀÖ²©´«Ã½staff focused on addressing public policy. The PPLC works to ensure that a counseling perspective is included in legislative advocacy.

This year, PPLC has been actively engaged in a range of policy issues, including Medicare inclusion for counselors and the implementation of the Counseling Compact. We are tracking opportunities for regulatory advocacy, educating counseling professionals on next steps and identifying priorities for ongoing efforts. Additionally, we are closely monitoring legislation that affects the individuals, families and communities we serve, including bills that target LGBTQ+ rights; restrict diversity, equity, inclusion and access initiatives; and impact counseling scope of practice. Our committee discusses both state and federal policies and develops advocacy tools to support ÀÖ²©´«Ã½members in creating meaningful systemic change.

At the state level, there have been notable advocacy wins. Dr. Madeleine (Maddie) Stevens, a PPLC member and Chair of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association’s Government Relations Committee (PCA GRC), has been involved in securing a new tiered-license system in Pennsylvania, allowing licencsed associate professional counselors (LAPCs) to accept insurance and expanding mental health access across the state. Additionally, PCA GRC successfully introduced to make Pennsylvania a member of the Counseling Compact. These efforts highlight the importance of linking state and national advocacy to drive meaningful policy advancements.

This month, we’re also spotlighting ACA’s Log Your Interactions with Your Legislator tool. If you meet with your representatives, use this tool to track your advocacy efforts and help demonstrate the power of grassroots engagement. 

Finally, remember that PPLC is here to support you! Whether you need legislative updates, advocacy resources or connections to relevant organizations, we encourage you to reach out. You can reach us at advocacy@counseling.org. 

Stay engaged, stay informed and let’s continue advocating for the counseling profession together!