About Us

The South Dakota Counseling Association (SDCA) is a partnership of associations representing professional counselors who enhance human development by providing benefits, products and services to expand professional knowledge and expertise; to promote recognition of counselors to the public and media; and to represent member's interests before federal, state, and local government.

The South Dakota Counseling Association (SDCA) is a state branch of the American Counseling Association and provides professional services for counselors in South Dakota. Belonging to a professional organization is something all counselors should consider. Membership provides networking and professional development opportunities. Counseling is a rapidly changing field and it is imperative that professional counselors keep up with the changes. Membership in SDCA is a great way to stay on top of issues in the counseling field.

SDCA also has four Areas of Specialty which represent counselors who work in different settings and have special interests. These Areas of Specialty provide professional services for counselors as well. The Specialty Areas are the South Dakota Association for Supervisors and Counselor Educators (SDACES); the South Dakota Mental Health Counselor Association (SDMHCA); the South Dakota Native American Counselor Association (SDNACA); and the South Dakota School Counselor Association (SDSCA).

SDCA also consist of seven area chapters. These local chapters provide networking and support for counselors in different geographical areas of South Dakota. They are also a great way for counselors to get involved in SDCA and the counseling profession. The chapters are Central Chapter (central South Dakota/Pierre area), Interlakes Chapter (Brookings area), Lewis & Clark Chapter (Vermillion/Yankton area), North Central Chapter (Aberdeen/ Northeastern SD), Palace/Pheasant Chapter (Huron/Mitchell area), Sioux Chapter (Sioux empire area), and West River Chapter (western SD).