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M. Elsa Soto Leggett Begins Term as American Counseling Association President

Elsa Soto Leggett, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, professor and practicum/internship coordinator at Truman State University and sole proprietor of Shelter Counseling and Supervision, began her term as ACA 2025–2026 president on July 1.

Advocacy

Indiana Counselors: Take Action to Stave Off Reimbursement Rate Cuts

Counseling Compact

Nevada Becomes 38th State to Sign Interstate Counseling Compact into Law

Latest News

Ohio Becomes the 3rd State to Grant Counseling Compact Privileges
Jan 5, 2026|3 min read

The American Counseling Association (ACA) is thrilled to announce that Ohio is the latest state to begin granting privileges under the Counseling Compact, marking another significant milestone in expanding access to mental health care.
Affordable Care Act Marketplace Subsidies
Dec 18, 2025|3 min read

As of Dec. 17, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace subsidies have not been extended.Despite weeks long debate and several proposed bills, Congress has failed to pass legislation that would extend subsidies for the ACA Marketplace.
Tags:
- Federal Issues
SUPPORT Act Reauthorization Becomes Law
Dec 10, 2025|2 min read

The SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025 (SUPPORT Act) was signed into law on December 1, 2025. The legislation reauthorizes and updates FY2026–FY2030 funding for a range of grant programs.
Tags:
- Advocacy
- Federal Issues

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Media Mentions

Tech developers say AI chatbots can battle loneliness and depression. Experts are skeptical.

Published February 9, 2026 on NBC News

More the 700 ACA counselors participated in an NBC News survey about the use and impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on mental health. Olivia Uwamahoro, co-chair of ACA’s AI Work Group, explained why counselors are skeptical of the future of AI on mental health and wellness. Read Full Article

AI & U: Developing romantic relationships with chatbots

Published February 9, 2026 on NBC News

In response to an NBC News survey, 86% of ACA counselors believe that developing romantic relationships with AI chatbots leads to increased social withdrawal and unhealthy dependencies. ACA’s AI Work Group co-chair, Olivia Uwamahoro, questions the impact of AI chatbots on the public’s overall wellness. Watch the Video

Burrow Blueprint Tackles Mental Health in Appalachian Schools

Published November 18, 2025 on The Post

Nationwide Children’s Hospital and The Joe Burrow Foundation have partnered on a new program, the Burrow Blueprint, to provide and support mental health treatment in Appalachian Ohio schools. ACA Past President Christine Suniti Bhat explains the importance of providing mental health services to students in rural Appalachian Ohio. Read Full Article

Protecting Kids and Teens on TikTok

Aired September 25, 2025 on Spectrum News Columbus

More should be done to combat the dark side of social media that can endanger kids and teenagers. ACA Past President Christine Suniti Bhat discusses the dangers of social media, its influence on societal pressures on young people and the role of parental supervision in protecting them. Watch the News Segment