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Alexandria, Va. (April 1, 2026) — To honor and recognize the counseling profession and to increase public awareness about when and how to engage with a counselor, the �ֲ���ý (ACA) celebrates Counseling Awareness Month each April. This year, we spotlight child and adolescent mental health, including articles and resources such as digital wellness tips for teens.

In addition, Counseling Awareness Month coincides with ACA’s 2026 Conference & Expo — April 9–11 in Columbus — the premiere educational and networking event for counseling professionals. The �ֲ���ýevent occurs as the field marks Teal Day on April 10, which recognizes counselors’ role in debunking the stigma related to mental illness and promoting mental health, self-care and well-being.

“Counseling Awareness Month plays a key role in highlighting the expertise embedded in professional counselors that helps shape the lives of so many throughout the entire nation,” said �ֲ���ýChief Executive Officer Brian D. Banks. “�ֲ���ýdeeply values the work and commitment made by counselors to their students, clients and communities. It is this value of �ֲ���ýthat guides our commitment to serve the profession, all while we protect, promote and advance the profession every day.”

Counseling Awareness Month also provides the opportunity to highlight recent legislative advancements that have expanded the reach of counseling services and the ability of licensed professional counselors to practice across state lines. One example is the Counseling Compact. Passed by legislatures in 39 states and jurisdictions and granting priveleges in three states, the Compact will have an important impact on the future of the profession in improving the continuity of care for all who need it.

“Professional counselors are licensed mental health professionals who combine science, compassion, and advocacy to help people heal, grow and reclaim hope for their lives,” said �ֲ���ýPresident Elsa Soto Leggett, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S. “We create safe, ethical and culturally responsive spaces where they can find new direction for their lives.”

To learn about Counseling Awareness Month and the beneficial role that counseling can play in your life, visit /mental-health-counseling/counseling-awareness-month

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About the �ֲ���ý
Founded in 1952, the �ֲ���ý (ACA) is a not-for-profit, professional and educational organization that is dedicated to the growth and enhancement of the counseling profession. �ֲ���ýrepresents 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. or more information, visit the �ֲ���ýwebsite and follow them on ,, , , and .