Writer​/Editor

Description

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

Our vision:
We are the preeminent advocate and resource for professional counselors and their clients in a world where everyone has access to mental health services.

Our mission:
Advancing the counseling profession, mental health and well-being through education, advocacy, community, inclusion and research.

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

All ACA team members are encouraged, supported and expected to demonstrate The Way We Work Values:
Be Flexible, Be Creative, Be Empowered, Be Inquisitive, Be Collaborative and Be Respectful.

The Writer/Editor creates original copy from concept to completion, including short- and long-form news and feature articles for Counseling Today’s print and digital portfolio. The Writer/Editor is a skilled storyteller and experienced news writer who can write for mental health professionals (e.g., licensed counselors and counselor educators) and those interested in learning more about mental health (i.e., the public). The Writer/Editor develops internal and external sources, conducts background research to inform reporting and interviews subject matter experts.

In addition, the Writer/Editor ensures the editorial integrity of key publications across the organization.

ACA’s bimonthly magazine, Counseling Today, has been the premier source of news and information about professional counseling since 1958. The print magazine presents news and in-depth features about mental health, research, effective clinical techniques, advocacy efforts, career guidance, ethical issues and counselor wellness. The Counseling Today portfolio also includes a digital member blog and "online exclusive" feature articles.

In addition to the below list of responsibilities, the Writer/Editor will carry out assigned tasks that are consistent with the general responsibilities of this position.

No Direct Reports

Attendance at the ACA Annual Conference & Expo as needed

• Write eight to 10 feature articles per year (about 1,500-2,000 words) for print issues of Counseling Today and online exclusives.
• Write short articles (about 300-500 words) for several recurring departments in each print issue.
• Research and compile listicle-style statistics, facts, news and event announcements.
• Collaborate with editor-in-chief and production team to generate story topics for the magazine.
• Research and identify subject matter experts to serve as sources, develop story plans and interview questions, and conduct interviews with sources.
• Attend the annual ACA Conference & Expo to cover sessions, write recaps of selected sessions and identify potential sources and contributors.
• Cultivate relationships with ACA leadership, members, potential sources and the mental health community to inform story development.
• Support the editor-in-chief to review and assess story pitches, article ideas and member submissions.
• Support the editor-in-chief to monitor and maintain the Counseling Today email inbox, including logging manuscript submissions and corresponding with contributors.

• Provide developmental editing, copyediting, proofreading and fact-checking support for member submissions, online exclusives and member blogs.
• Support the proofreading and promotion of content for advertisements, blogs, newsletters, web pages, social media, podcasts, webinars, video scripts and marketing collateral as needed.
• Learn, maintain and update the ACA Style…