Advocating for the Future: NBCC and PARC’s Proactive Approach in an Unpredictable Political Landscape

In an era marked by evolving legislative challenges, NBCC and Affiliates’ Policy, Advocacy, and Research in Counseling Center (PARC) and Government Affairs Department are making significant strides to protect and promote the counseling profession. The recent launch of the inaugural Counselors United for Legislative Engagement meeting on March 14 is a prime example of this proactive approach, as NBCC convened leaders from various counseling organizations, including  ACA, ACES, AMHCA, CACREP, CSI, and NCDA. This collaborative effort aims to amplify the voices of counselors across the board, regardless of party affiliation, and to foster a supportive community that prioritizes the legislative needs of the profession. 

A Unified Voice for Counselors 

The Counselors United for Legislative Engagement meeting marks a pivotal moment in the counseling profession, as it brings together diverse organizations to advocate for meaningful change. During the kickoff meeting, participants engaged in fruitful discussions on various topics, including how to collaborate effectively to support counselors through position statements, joint advocacy efforts to Congress, and initiatives aimed at improving access to care and career opportunities for counselors. This coalition is committed to making a tangible impact, ensuring that the voices of counselors are not only heard but also influential in shaping future policies that affect the profession. 

Federal Research Funding: A Focus on Supporting Counselors 

In addition to collaboration, NBCC is actively partnering with ACES to sustain vital federal research initiatives that have faced setbacks due to recent changes in funding from the White House. Counselors who have been impacted by these funding cuts are encouraged to share their experiences, as this feedback is crucial for driving future advocacy efforts. For more information on how to contribute, click here. 

Ambassador Program: Counselors and Legislative Engagement 

Furthermore, the NBCC Government Affairs team is launching an Ambassador Program, bringing together counselors from across the nation to receive legislative advocacy training. This initiative aims to cultivate future leaders in the counseling profession who will work alongside NBCC to address advocacy issues at both state and federal levels. By empowering counselors to engage in the legislative process, NBCC is ensuring that the profession is represented effectively in decision-making arenas. 

Bridging Research, Practice, and Policy 

Through PARC, NBCC is also engaging counseling teams to conduct and disseminate essential research that supports counselors at all levels. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between evidence-based practice and policy, ensuring that counselors are not only participants in the conversation but also key influencers in the shaping of their profession’s future. PARC is dedicated to evaluating professional standards, advocating for necessary changes, and enhancing the well-being of counselors’ clients. Several projects are already underway that focus on Artificial Intelligence Regulations, Psychedelics, Climate and Mental Health, Medicare Reimbursement, Suicidology of Black Men and Boys, and EMDR and Neurofeedback Interventions, among other topics. By providing legislators with the information they need to make informed decisions, PARC is positioning itself as a vital resource for promoting the interests of the counseling community globally. 

We Want to Hear From You 

As NBCC and PARC continue their efforts to advocate for and protect the counseling profession, it is essential for counselors to engage actively in these initiatives. For questions related to government affairs, please reach out to NBCC at govtaffairs@nbcc.org. For inquiries regarding research, contact parc@nbcc.org. 

Together, through research, dedicated advocacy, and collaboration, we can shape a future in which counselors are empowered, supported, and equipped to meet the challenges of an ever-changing political landscape.