The American Counseling Association (ACA) frequently promotes itself as a champion of diversity, inclusion, and multiculturalism. However, many Black counselors feel this commitment falls short. While increasing the number of Black counselors is important, true inclusion requires more than just a seat at the table.

ACA: Diversity Posters vs. Real Action

Representation is a start, but it's not enough. Black counselors need to be not just present, but heard and empowered to address the specific challenges faced by Black clients and communities. The ACA's decision to hold its annual conference in Louisiana, a state with a troubling record on racial justice issues, exemplifies this disconnect.

Louisiana's Anti-CRT Legislation:

A recent article in AOL: https://www.aol.com/louisiana-committee-quietly-approves... highlights Louisiana's passage of legislation that restricts how educators discuss race and history in classrooms.

The Louisiana Illuminator: https://lailluminator.com/.../gop-louisiana-lawmakers.../ further reports on efforts by Louisiana lawmakers to target Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in universities.

This environment sends a mixed message about the ACA's commitment to the very communities it claims to serve.

Enter the NABC:

This is where organizations like NABC become essential. NABC goes beyond empty rhetoric.  Our mission, is to create a dedicated space for Black clinicians to thrive, learn, and make a profound impact on the mental health of Black individuals and communities.

NABC's goals and objects include:

Advocacy: Championing policies that address the unique challenges faced by Black communities in the mental health care system.

Professional Development: Providing continuing education programs specifically tailored to the needs of Black counselors.

Mentorship: Fostering a supportive network for Black mental health professionals.

Community Building: Creating a safe space for open dialogue about the specific issues facing Black people in regards to mental health.

Why Participation Matters: A Multi-Pronged Approach

Participation in both the NABC and the ACA offers distinct advantages.

NABC: Provides a safe space for Black voices to be heard, fosters a sense of community, and addresses the specific challenges faced by Black mental health professionals and clients.

ACA: Offers broader exposure and the potential to influence mental health policy on a national level.

Ultimately, we need both. The fight for true inclusion requires collaboration across organizations, but it also necessitates spaces where we can delve deeper into the specific challenges faced by our own communities.

The NABC is a powerful example of how Black mental health professionals can come together to advocate for themselves, their clients, and the betterment of mental health care for all.