Press Release

Press Release

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.

Latest News


  • Graduate Students -- Your Thoughts Can Win!
    Feb 17, 2009|1 min read

    Topics have just been announced for the ACA Foundation's annual Graduate Student Essay Contest, open to all graduate students in counseling or related programs. The first place winner will receive $500, and five winning essays will appear in ...

  • ACA Sponsored Counseling Delegation to China and Tibet
    Feb 4, 2009|1 min read

    People to People and The American Counseling Association are pleased to announce a unique overseas cultural and professional exchange opportunity. Dr. Jane Goodman, a past ACA president, will lead a delegation of professional counselors to China and ...

  • ACA Graduate Student Ethics Competition Results
    Jan 29, 2009|2 min read

    Once again, we have come to the conclusion of the annual ACA Graduate Student Ethics Competition! The winners are...

Media Mentions


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

AI Therapist Might Be Illegal Soon. Here’s Why

Published August 27, 2025 in CNN

As AI chatbots become a popular way to access cost-free counseling and companionship, a patchwork of state regulation is emerging, restricting how the technology can be used in therapy practice. ACA’s AI work group member Russell Fulmer provides insight on using AI in counseling in this article. Read Full Article

Moving to a New Home or School Can Stress Kids Out. How to Make it More Manageable

Published August 19, 2025 on Associated Press

Transitioning to a new home or school environment can be an anxious time for kids, with worries about making new friends and adapting to new routines. ACA’s President Elect Victoria Kress provides insight on how these changes can affect kids. Read Full Article