Description
The Ethics & Advocacy Division (EAD) is designed for mental health professionals, biblical and pastoral counselors, and coaches who are passionate about protecting and promoting faith-based mental healthcare and religious liberty. In today’s ever-changing cultural and political landscape, the need to stand for the integration of faith and practice has never been more urgent. EAD exists to raise awareness and advocate for key issues impacting Christian mental healthcare at the local, state, and federal levels. The division seeks to protect the right to provide care that honors biblical values and to ensure that Christian voices are included in the broader conversations surrounding mental health, counseling ethics, and religious freedom.
Members will gain insight into relevant legislation, stay informed about challenges facing Christian professionals, and be equipped to make a meaningful impact in their communities and spheres of influence. Join a growing movement of advocates committed to preserving the freedom to integrate faith with competent, compassionate care.
Member Benefits:
- Quarterly Divisional Zoom Meet Up with Division Leader
- Networking opportunities at AACC Divisional Mixers at Conferences
- Savings on specialized resources and services
- Email: eaddivision@aacc.net, stay connected with your division, reach out directly with questions or updates, and engage with fellow members
Division Leaders:
Shannae Anderson, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist in Virginia and California with over 25 years of experience specializing in trauma, substance abuse, and eating disorders. A graduate of USC, she studied under renowned experts Dr. John Briere and Dr. Michael Newcomb. Dr. Anderson has developed and led innovative treatment programs, including STEPS at Anacapa by the Sea, and currently serves as Clinical Director at Monarch Recovery in Ventura, California. She has worked extensively with survivors of mass trauma and provides consultation to fellow clinicians. A trained expert in Interpersonal Neurobiology and EMDR, she also serves as Director of Psychology and Co-Director of Ethics and Advocacy for the American Association of Christian Counselors and teaches as an adjunct professor in Liberty University’s Psy.D. program.
Mercy Connors, Ph.D., LPC., is the Senior Director of Counseling, Continuing Education, and Credentialing for the American Association of Christian Counselors and Director of Counseling and Director of the International Board of Christian Care. Dr. Connors is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor, and a Certified Enneagram Coach. She is a member of American Association of Christian Counselors and the Virginia Counseling Association. Dr. Connors received her B.S. in Counseling Psychology from Toccoa Falls College, her M.A. in Human Services and her Ph.D. in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. As an expert in Christian Counseling Ethics, Dr. Connors was the Chief Editor for the Y-2023 American Association of Christian Counselors Code of Ethics and she fields all ethical questions from the members of the AACC. She has spoken on the topic of ethics at professional conferences and private events and is the Co-Director of the Ethics and Advocacy Division of the AACC. Dr. Connors also co-wrote a peer-reviewed article on the biblical theory of change.
