President's Column: Humanism, Equity, Authenticity, and Liberation
The world needs humanistic counselors now more than ever! Our communities are in need during a pandemic with emerging variants, barriers with access to treatment, and persistent health disparities. Although the author is unknown, the phrase we are the one's we have been waiting for seems appropriate and timely.
Despite the hardships experienced these past two years, I am continually reminded of the strength and commitment of our AHC membership. Throughout the pandemic, AHC leadership pivoted to provide support and solidarity to our members. This included the creation of an AHC Graduate Student Committee, hosting the first-ever virtual AHC Conference, and the implementation of a new platform to communicate with members more effectively.
I am thrilled to report that the AHC Conference Committee is busy preparing for a face-to-face conference for 2022 in Nashville, Tennessee. Following a canceled conference in 2020 and a virtual conference in 2021, a return to our tradition of a face-to-face conference feels exciting and vital. The theme, Humanism, Equity, Authenticity, and Liberation (HEAL), was first proposed by the AHC DEI Committee and dramatically reflects the tenets that AHC holds dear. Please meet me in Nashville as we join together after several years apart.
In addition to the conference, AHC members can attend free monthly webinars that include a broad array of humanistic-themed topics. A big THANK YOU to our webinar presenters who gifted AHC their time and talent in these crucial ways. In addition, AHC hosted a day-long training on Suicide Assessment and Treatment Planning: A Strengths-Based Approach that helped generate additional income for AHC to support the continued financial health of the division.
Planning for the future, we have recently compiled a legislative task force to explore how AHC can be present for continued advocacy and grassroots efforts regarding behavioral health and pandemic life, eradicating health disparities, and preserving our professional identity. In conjunction with the endorsement of an AHC approved humanism credential, this initiative places humanistic counselors in a growth-oriented position as we look to the future with hope. Be on the lookout for a return of our Fireside Chats and opportunities to connect through our soon-to-be-released interest networks in early 2022.
Despite this progress, things are still a bit different from previous years. Due to the modifications in the ACA Conference, the Executive Committee has decided to postpone hosting an AHC booth this year at the conference. To be more inclusive, we have opted for virtual meetings at AHC, including the Town Hall, so that members who choose to attend the ACA Conference using hybrid options can also participate. More details to come!
In a time such as this, I am so grateful for AHC. Including our fearless leaders, past presidents, and you, our member. Collaboratively we have managed the unexpected twists and turns. Together we will prepare for the future and address the community's needs.
Please do not hesitate to reach out if you would like to get more involved with AHC or if you have an innovative idea that could better serve our membership.
Respectfully,
Amanda Evans
AHC President 2021-22
amandathomasevans@gmail.com