Best practices for associational advocacy in the counseling profession: A grounded theory investigation

Abstract

Through this grounded theory study, the authors present the model for advancing professions (MAP) through advocacy, which identifies how counseling-related professional organizations develop, implement, assess, and sustain public policy and advocacy initiatives, grounded in 11 participants’ experiences across six professional associations. Although previous models supported the work of individual advocacy within the field of counseling, the MAP through advocacy provides a clear and robust associational infrastructure and a set of best practices to guide counseling organizations in public policy and advocacy initiatives that advance the profession. Implications for the counseling profession and how the model can inform and enhance the mission of the ACA, and its divisions, regions, and state organizations are discussed.