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LEAD ARTICLES

Two New Symposiums This year’s conference will introduce two new symposiums that address timely and vital issues. 1. Human Flourishing 2.0 Clinical Symposium | Thursday, September 25 This symposium will explore global research on the connection between faith and mental well-being. It will highlight how spiritual beliefs and reli gious practices impact personal and community health and how that knowl edge can shape counseling and ministry work. Presenters include: • Dr. Tyler VanderWeele, Harvard University • Dr. Harold Koenig, Duke University • Dr. Byron Johnson, Baylor University 2. Religious Liberty Symposium | Friday, September 26 from 7:30 to 9:00 PM Former Ambassador Sam Brownback will host a special evening session on religious freedom and its impact on faith-based mental healthcare, joined by AACC Ethics and Advocacy Division leaders, Drs. Shannae Anderson and Mercy Connors. Together, they will explore recent legal developments and ethical challenges in the field of professional Christian counseling to offer insight on what counselors, ministries, and organizations need to know to remain informed and engaged. Worship and Community There will be opportunities for worship, reflection, and connection through out the week. These moments provide space to slow down, pray, and stay grounded in what matters most. Many attendees say that hallway conversa tions and shared meals are some of the most meaningful parts of their con ference experience. Whether you are a counselor, pastor, coach, or ministry leader, you will find content and connections that strengthen your work and sense of calling. Division Mixers, Exhibit Hall, and Bookstore In addition to training and plenary sessions, attendees will have the chance to connect with peers during AACC Division Mixers. These gatherings offer focused time for individuals serving in similar roles or working in related fields to meet, exchange ideas, and build relationships. Whether you are involved in clinical practice, pastoral care, education, coaching, or ministry leadership, the mixers provide space to connect with others who understand the joys and challenges of your work. The Exhibit Hall will feature more than 100 organizations and ministries offering tools, resources, and services to support Christian professionals. Attendees can explore new books, browse curricula, learn about certification programs, and talk directly with representatives from leading publishers, universities, counseling organizations, and tech platforms. The AACC Bookstore will be fully stocked with the latest titles in Christian counseling, leadership, marriage and family, mental health, coaching, and Christian living. Many plenary speakers and workshop presenters will be available for book signings throughout the week, allowing attendees to meet them in person and go home with a signed copy of their favorite resource. Save the Date The 2026 “Faith and Flourishing” Mega National Christian Counseling Conference is scheduled for September 10-12, 2026, at the Loews Arlington Hotel and Convention Center in Dallas, Texas. ; Whether you are a counselor, pastor, coach, or ministry leader, you will find content and connections that strengthen your work and sense of calling.

A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF CHRISTIAN COUNSELORS

President: TIM CLINTON VP of Publications/Editor-in-Chief: MARK CAMPER Advertising Director: KEISHA QUEEN

Graphic Designer: AMY LEACH COLE

Published quarterly by American Association of Christian Counselors, Inc., P.O. Box 739, Forest, VA 24551. AACC is an organization of evangelical pro fessional, lay, and pastoral counselors dedicated to promoting excellence and unity in Christian counseling. To ensure the confidentiality of all individuals men tioned in case material, names and identifying informa tion have been changed. Unsolicited manuscripts and poetry are not accepted. A query letter must be sent first, describing a proposed manuscript. Unfortunately, any unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned. CHRISTIAN COUNSELING CONNECTION grants permission for any original article (not a reprint) to be photocopied for use in a local church or classroom, provided no more than 250 copies are made, are dis tributed free, and indicate CHRISTIAN COUNSELING CONNECTION as the source. Advertising deadline for display advertising is approx imately six weeks before the month of publication. Please call for exact deadline dates. All advertising must be prepaid. If you have comments or questions about the content of CCC, please direct them to the Senior Editor. The views expressed by the reviewers, authors, or advertisers do not necessarily reflect those of the American Association of Christian Counselors, and a review in this publication does not imply an endorse ment. AACC and this publication do not assume responsibility in any way for members’ or readers’ efforts to apply or utilize information, suggestions, or recommendations made by the organization, its members, publications, or other resources. All rights reserved. Copyright 2019.

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