Founded in 1966, the Alabama Counseling Association (ALCA) is an organization of counseling professionals who work in education, health care, residential, private practice, community agencies, government, and business/industry settings.  Serving as a dynamic network of professional counselors in the State of Alabama, ALCA is devoted to professional development and maintenance of high standards for those involved in the counseling profession. Through leadership training, continuing education opportunities, and advocacy services to more than 2000 members, ALCA provides counseling professionals opportunities to develop their skills and expand their knowledge base.  ALCA has been instrumental in setting professional and ethical standards for the counseling profession.  The association has made considerable strides in accreditation, licensure, and national certification.  It also represents the interests of the profession before Congress and federal agencies.

The Alabama Counseling Association (ALCA) is a state branch of the 50,000 member American Counseling Association (ACA).
Our Mission

To enhance human development throughout the life span and to promote public confidence and trust in the counseling profession.

Our Common Values

Caring for self and others acquiring and using knowledge respecting diversity empowering leadership encouraging positive change.

Our Strategic Goals

  • To promote the recognition of the counseling profession
  • To develop and implement a set of strategies that responds to the needs of a diverse membership
  • To develop and expand diversity throughout the membership of the association
  • To promote unity of purpose and diversity of practice
  • To prepare and nurture effective leaders
  • To provide leadership as an association in governmental relations and public awareness

Quick Facts

  • The membership is over 2,000 statewide, with over 1500 Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC's) certified by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling.
  • Networks with nearly 50,000 counseling professionals across the United States and in 50 foreign countries through the ACA.
  • ALCA provides continuing educational opportunities, advocacy services, and leadership training for its members.
  • ALCA provides interest groups and divisions which represent the following areas:
    • school counseling at all levels
    • religious, ethical, and spiritual values
    • clinical mental health counseling
    • marriage and family counseling
    • career development
    • addiction counseling
    • counselor education and supervision rehabilitation counseling
    • college counseling
    • licensed professional counselors counseling through group process
    • resources for GLBT individuals and related issues
    • leadership, information, and training on adult development and aging