We are excited to welcome you to the 65th Annual European Branch of the American Counseling Association (EB-ACA) Conference, happening in person this fall in Heidelberg, Germany, on October 4-5, 2024. This year's event is hosted at Schiller International University, providing a fitting venue for our gathering.

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The theme for this year’s conference is "Climate Change: The Shift in the World of Counseling with Artificial Intelligence." Our sessions will explore how climate change and advancements in artificial intelligence are reshaping the counseling profession. We will address global counseling challenges and focus on social justice and advocacy across various disciplines, including Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Professional School Counseling, Career Counseling, Rehabilitation Counseling, College Counseling, Higher Education Advising, Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling, among others.

 

We look forward to your participation and the meaningful conversations that will help shape the future of our field.

 

Keynote Speaker:

Artificial Intelligence:  The Seismic Wave Sweeping Counseling

Presented By: Carolyn Stone, Ed.D.​​

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Counseling is experiencing a seismic shift in the implications of using artificial intelligence (AI) in their work with clients.  Counselors, staring into a mile deep fissure, are bewildered at times as to how to legally and ethically negotiate the chasms created by AI.  Generative AI systems deployed as virtual counselors has advantages such as clients’ ability to interact as often as they want, on any topic of choice, and at a fraction of the cost of a typical human counselor.  However, the legal and ethical implications of AI are numerous and include concerns around cultural bias if AI is built on non-diverse data, the mechanics of informed consent,  the impossibility of real empathic understanding, the missed nuances of human interaction, the questions around accuracy in treatment planning, a shift in professional identity, and concerns over accountability should something go awry.  Anytime, technology is at issue there is always the additional ethical concern of equity in access.  The profession will continue to explore how to incorporate the shifting sands of counseling with AI while posturing to ensure that a  high quality of care continues to be the primary focus.

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Objectives for Attendees:

1.Examine one’s own values/philosophies in the use of AI in counseling

2.Gain a tolerance for ambiguity in the use of AI as a counseling tool as opposed to rigid responses 

3. Learn best practices in the use of AI within the standard of care for the counseling profession

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Pre-Conference: 

Philosophers' Walk to Wellness: A German Cultural Connection (1CE Hour)

Presenters: Dr. Leslie O'Ryan & Dr. Benton K. Johnson II

October 3rd, 9-12 pm

Registration Fee: $120

This preconference workshop explores how German cultural perspectives on wellness can enhance counselor self-care practices. Germany's holistic health traditions, including healing spas, "Waldbaden" (forest bathing), and naturopathy, offer valuable insights for a more inclusive approach to well-being. Participants will walk the Philosopher's Walk in Heidelberg, reflecting on the wisdom of German philosophers along the way. At the end of the walk, participants will visit a spa, experiencing firsthand the rejuvenating practices rooted in German wellness culture. By integrating these experiences, counselors can enrich their approach to self-care and overall well-being. (Max enrollment: 10-12)