The Australian Counselling Association (ACA) is thrilled to celebrate a significant milestone: our community now includes over 17,000 dedicated counsellors. This achievement is a testament to the strength, dedication, and compassion of our members, who tirelessly work to support the mental health and well-being of individuals and communities across Australia.
A Community of Care
Our members are the heart and soul of the ACA. Each counsellor brings their unique skills, experiences, and empathy to their practice, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. This diversity enriches our collective understanding and enhances the support we can offer to those in need of help.
From urban to rural areas, our counsellors are there, making a difference every day. They work in schools, hospitals, private practices, and community organisations, addressing a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges, and much more.
Empowering Through Education and Support
We are proud of the continuous learning and professional development our members pursue. ACA provides resources, training, and opportunities for growth, but it is our counsellors’ dedication to their own development that truly drives our profession forward. Their commitment to staying informed about the latest research, techniques, and best practices ensures that they can provide the highest level of care.
The peer support within our community is also invaluable. Our members frequently collaborate, share insights, and offer guidance to one another. This spirit of collegiality and mutual respect strengthens our community and enhances the quality of care we can provide.
Our Journey
Our journey to 17,000 members has been marked by several key initiatives and efforts:
- Enhanced Member Benefits: We continually strive to provide our members with valuable resources, enhanced digital experiences, professional development opportunities, and exclusive benefits.Â
- Community Engagement: Building a strong, supportive community is at the heart of the ACA. We have focused on creating opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing among our members through webinars, online platforms and Chapter meetings across the country and online.
- Advocacy and Representation: As the largest peak body, we actively advocate for the recognition and advancement of the counselling profession. Our efforts to represent the interests of our members at various levels have strengthened our association.
- Professional Development: Offering high-quality professional development resources has been a cornerstone of our growth. We are dedicated to supporting our members’ continuous learning and career advancement.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward with optimism and excitement. Our community is growing, and with it, our capacity to make a difference. Thank you to each and every one of our members!
With appreciation,Â
Jodie McKenzie, CEO
