Richard Yep, CEO of ACA
! Eye diagram. So when we think of 2020 it is ironic that so much of what we “saw” are things that were far from clear when we started 12 months ago. Professionally and personally, the effects of COVID-19, racial tensions, police brutality against people of color, and a very tumultuous national election here in the US have resulted in disruption, divisions and social ruptures in the structure of what makes us members of the global community.
In addition, increasing food insecurity, job loss and a vulnerable economy all contribute to growing concerns about the mental health of adults, adolescents, couples, families and children. From fear to much more serious problems, we have a global community in crisis.
As we close the year and think about what we saw in 2020, I wonder if people will respond by choosing to be mean or virtuous. Professional counselors play an incredibly important role in nurturing what I hope is a path to a community that includes virtue. Our local communities, our nation, and indeed our global counterparts, can emerge from all that we have experienced with renewed vigor to address the evils of our society. Not too much pressure on the counseling profession, but I think your efforts, whether affecting one person or a thousand people, can make an incredible contribution to the healing needed.
The past year has exposed many areas of darkness that exist in society. My hope for 2021 is that we will all come together to discuss, recognize and find solutions to the insidious destruction of courtesy and shared concern for one another that we have seen. I want to point out that these comments are not about any political party, ideology, or movement. I am referring to finding a way forward that can address the issues discovered and presented in 2020. We need respectful conversations in which we agree not to agree on certain things as long as we find a way to create an environment that promotes solutions. Our common goal is to improve everyone's life.
Professional counselors play a key role in working with clients, groups, families, communities and public order representatives. In addition, there are a number of PhD students currently enrolled in counselor training programs who need advice, guidance and support from those who have practiced and who teach.
I think I am an optimist at heart. I believe that professional advice has a bright future ahead of it. The American Counseling Association continues to strive to be your professional partner. We need to know what we can offer to help you meet the challenges and exceed the expectations of those you serve. I'm serious when I say let me know what you want from ACA!
Last month in this column, I encouraged you to take care of yourself. This month I shared why such energy and renewal will be necessary in the year ahead. Each of you can help make this world better. When we start putting 2020 in the rearview mirror, take a moment to think about how you overcame the challenges this year and then know that your resilience really makes you an even better professional advisor.
As always, I look forward to your comments, questions and thoughts. Call me at 800-347-6647. 231 or send me an email at [email protected]. You can also follow me on Twitter: @Richyep.
Be healthy.
