Counseling Awareness Month
April 2003

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What is Counseling Awareness Month?

Counseling Awareness Month is an annual observance that is celebrated in April to educate the public about the role of counselors in helping individuals to live healthier, happier, and more productive lives. It is sponsored by the American Counseling Association (ACA). The theme for this year's observance is "Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence."

What is counseling?

Counseling is a collaborative effort between a counselor and a client. According to the ACA, "Professional counselors help clients identify goals and potential solutions to problems which cause emotional turmoil; seek to improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; and promote behavior change and optimal mental health."

Why is counseling so important?

Every day, some form of counseling makes a difference in the lives of individuals around the world. Counseling can be beneficial in many instances. For example, counseling can help when a person is making a life-changing decision and needs assistance with putting things in perspective, or when a person needs help with improving or developing life skills. In addition to mental health counseling, other types of counseling include pastoral or spiritual counseling, marriage counseling, job and business counseling, education counseling, and genetic counseling.

How can I find out more about counseling and counselors?

To learn more about counseling and the work done by counselors, or to find a counselor near you, visit the ACA web site at http://www.counseling.org/. You can also obtain a copy of the Counseling Awareness Publicity Packet by calling ACA Member Services at (800) 347-6647, extension 222.