Advocacy Updates

Latest News

Cuts to the Health and Human Services Department

Apr 3, 2025|2 min read

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.

Continuing Resolution Extends Telehealth Through September

Mar 20, 2025|1 min read

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...

Artificial Intelligence Policy and Counseling

Mar 18, 2025|2 min read

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.

The U.S. Supreme Court to Hear Case on Conversion Therapy Ban

Mar 13, 2025|3 min read

On March 9, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to review Chiles v. Salazar to rule on the constitutionality of Colorado’s ban on conversion therapy during the 2025-2026 term.

The Expiration of Telehealth Extensions

Mar 4, 2025|1 min read

The most recent telehealth extension is set to expire on Monday, March 31, 2025. Along with our coalition partners, we have engaged congressional leaders to highlight the critical need for telehealth services...

Government Funding Deadline Quickly Approaching

Mar 4, 2025|1 min read

As we approach the midpoint of the 2025 federal fiscal year (FY), the federal government continues to operate under a Continuing Resolution (CR) set to expire on Friday, March 14.

House Passes Budget Resolution That Threatens to Reduce Medicaid

Feb 28, 2025|2 min read

Earlier this week in a 217-215 vote, the House of Representatives passed a budget resolution that marks the beginning of efforts to reshape the Medicaid program.

ACA Engages 119th Congress on Mental Health Priorities

Jan 13, 2025|2 min read

ACA proudly participated in January welcome receptions for the 119th Congress. ACA met with lawmakers to address America’s growing mental health crisis and advocate for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs)

Reflections on the 2024 SAMHSA OBHE Conference: A Milestone for Behavioral Health Equity

Dec 24, 2024|2 min read

2024 SAMHSA Office of Behavioral Health Equity (OBHE) Conference, themed "Re-Envisioning the Behavioral Health Workforce Focusing on Underserved Communities," highlighted transformative efforts to promote equity in mental health & substance use care.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) October Developments

Oct 21, 2024|2 min read

CMS’s Office of Minority Health shared the Coverage to Care initiative and the Roadmap to Behavioral Health to help people understand what behavioral health and substance use services are available.

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Advocacy Updates

Modern Medicaid Alliance Membership & Engagement
Apr 9, 2025|1 min read

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.
Tags:
- State Issues
Unpacking Executive Orders: What They Mean for K-12 Schools & LGBTQ+ Students
Apr 3, 2025|1 min read

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
Apr 3, 2025|2 min read

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...
Counseling Compact Update: Committee Hearings in New Mexico and Nevada
Mar 19, 2025|1 min read

On February 26, the Nevada General Assembly Committee on Commerce and Labor held a hearing on the Counseling Compact legislation.
Highlighting Advocacy Tools
Mar 18, 2025|1 min read

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

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When I engage in advocacy, I know that I am doing something that can lead to meaningful change, even when the road is long.
Jordan Westcott, Ph.D., NCC

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