The American Counseling Association (ACA) is the world’s largest organization representing professional counselors across diverse practice settings.

Vision: To serve as the preeminent advocate and resource for professional counselors and their clients in a world where everyone has access to mental health services.

Mission: Advance mental health and well-being through advocacy, community, inclusion, and research.

Values: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion; Integrity; Proactive Leadership; Professional Community & Relationships; Scientific Practice & Knowledge; Social Justice & Empowerment.

The Chief, Government & External Affairs (Chief GEA) provides vision and leadership in advocating for the counseling profession, representing counselors, the profession, and clients. As a member of the executive team, the Chief GEA leads their functional area while collaborating with senior leaders to achieve the Association’s strategic goals.

This role oversees ACA’s public policy and advocacy efforts, aligning with the ACA Strategic Plan. The Chief GEA identifies priorities to increase government awareness and support for the counseling community, building relationships with federal agencies, Congressional offices, state legislatures, licensure boards, coalitions, and ACA volunteer committees. Additionally, the Chief GEA cultivates ties with political press and members to advance the Association’s policy objectives.

The Chief GEA develops and executes a comprehensive advocacy strategy, educates members on policy issues, and oversees national and state-level events. Responsibilities include managing ACA’s grassroots advocacy platform, strategic measures, and supervising 1–2 direct reports. The role requires attendance at the ACA Annual Conference, a public presence in advocacy settings, and occasional travel.

Key Responsibilities

Government Affairs

• Oversee the government affairs team, including staff management and budget.
• Develop and implement a government affairs strategy to advance ACA’s policy priorities.
• Manage external consultants (e.g., contract lobbyists) supporting advocacy efforts.
• Analyze legislative/regulatory issues impacting the counseling profession and prioritize actionable items.
• Drive ACA’s legislative initiatives and advise leadership.
• Direct the preparation of policy briefings, testimony, talking points, and member updates.
• Collaborate with ACA departments to align policy initiatives with member needs.
• Monitor federal legislation, assess impacts, and recommend responses.
• Proactively identify opportunities to expand ACA’s influence in policymaking.
• Create initiatives to boost engagement and secure support (e.g., funding) for the profession.
• Oversee research and drafting of legislative alerts, position papers, amicus briefs, and training materials.
• Manage the development of government relations content for ACA volunteers.

External Affairs

• Establish ACA as a credible, influential voice in public policy among legislatures, Congress, and federal agencies.
• Cultivate relationships with government officials, agencies, and key legislative offices.
• Represent ACA in coalition meetings and maintain partnerships with allied organizations.
• Ensure ACA participation in relevant stakeholder forums and advocacy coalitions.
• Promote policy wins and opportunities via social media, news releases, and other channels.
• Lead external engagement with stakeholders, community leaders, and association partners.

• Bachelor’s degree in public policy or a related field.
• 10+ years in government relations (Congressional, federal agency, or nonprofit).
• Proven experience in external affairs and volunteer-driven governance organizations.
• Deep knowledge of the legislative process, regulations, and policy analysis.
• Exceptional relationship-building, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communicator with the ability to engage diverse audiences, including members and policymakers.
• Expertise in state and federal government operations.
• Ability to navigate Capitol Hill and federal agencies with diplomacy and influence.
• Track record of delivering high-quality work under tight deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with volunteers, partners, and staff.
• Outstanding written and oral communication, including presentations and policy messaging.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent planning, project management, and prioritization skills.
• Experience managing budgets, contracts, and accounting systems.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

Location: Hybrid. Candidate must reside within the Washington, DC metro area. Some evenings and weekends may be required.  

Please include salary requirements. 

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled and Veteran Employer

At ACA, Equal Employment Opportunity is our commitment and goal. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital status or any other protected status designated by federal, state, or local law.