Business Details
We were founded in 1976 as a professional organization dedicated to clinical mental health counseling. Our mission is to establish and promote vigorous standards for education, training, practice, and ethics. We foster solidarity and a sense of belonging among clinical mental health counselors nationwide. Our members benefit from access to professional communities, forums, and a member directory. We position clinical mental health counselors to meet the health-care needs of the populations they serve. Our unique training prepares counselors to merge developmental, wellness, and diagnostic perspectives for client advantage.
We provide credentialing, certification, and continuing education opportunities, including specialized programs such as the Compass-Behavioral Certificate. Our advocacy efforts include policy agendas, guides, and a call to action that advance the profession. We offer career guidance, a job board, publications, and events like the Annual Conference to support professional growth. Our online store, member directory, and liability insurance enhance the value of membership for counselors. We are committed to upholding rigorous professional standards and supporting qualified mental health services.
We provide credentialing, certification, and continuing education opportunities, including specialized programs such as the Compass-Behavioral Certificate. Our advocacy efforts include policy agendas, guides, and a call to action that advance the profession. We offer career guidance, a job board, publications, and events like the Annual Conference to support professional growth. Our online store, member directory, and liability insurance enhance the value of membership for counselors. We are committed to upholding rigorous professional standards and supporting qualified mental health services.
Highlights and features
- We bring over 50 years of expertise in counseling standards.
- We provide the 8.5-hour Compass-Behavioral Certificate with 8 CEUs.
- We advocate via policy agendas, guides, and call to action.
- We foster solidarity among clinical mental health counselors.
- We offer job board, publications, and annual conference for members.
Services
Compass-Behavioral Certificate Program
The Compass-Behavioral Certificate Program teaches practical coaching strategies for autistic and neurodivergent clients. Participants learn to empower teens and adults to build independence, emotional regulation, and everyday life skills. The 8.5-hour course provides evidence-based tools for real-world application and awards 8 CEUs.
Publications
Our Publications provide essential resources such as the Essentials text, Standards, and Code of Ethics. They also include the Journal of Mental Health Counseling, the Advocate Magazine, Practice Guidelines, Reports, and the Annual Report. These resources support counselors' knowledge, ethical practice, and professional development.
Advocacy
Our Advocacy initiative includes a Call to Action, Policy Agenda, and Advocacy Guides. These tools aim to position clinical mental health counselors to meet community health-care needs. By influencing policy and promoting standards, advocacy strengthens the profession and improves access to care for clients.
Credentialing Certifications
Our Credentialing Certifications program offers pathways to earn the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential. Candidates must meet specific education, licensure, or experience standards set by the association. Certification validates expertise, supports professional recognition, and helps counselors meet state requirements.
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events offers live workshops, webinars, and conferences on relevant counseling topics. An example is the Creative Tools for Emotional Regulation event supporting autistic children and youth. Events provide practical skills, registration details, and opportunities for professional growth and networking.
