Today, I am deeply honored to begin my term as President of the Mississippi Counseling Association. This year, I invite counselors across our state to join me as we embrace our presidential theme:

Together, we will strengthen our profession, support one another, advocate for the clients and communities we serve, and celebrate the impact counselors make every day. If you're not yet a member, now is the perfect time to join or renew your MCA membership. Already a member? Invite a colleague to become part of our professional community. The Power of Us grows stronger with every counselor who chooses to connect, serve, and lead.

Registration is now open for the MCA Fall Conference, November 4–6, 2026, in Biloxi! Join us for exceptional professional development, networking, and inspiration. I also invite you to support our conference as a vendor, exhibitor, or sponsor. Even a $100 Sponsorship helps strengthen our conference while promoting your organization to hundreds of counseling professionals. Let's make this a year of connection, collaboration, and collective impact. Leadership is never the work of one person—it is the result of a team committed to serving with purpose, integrity, and heart.

As I begin my term as President of the Mississippi Counseling Association, I am honored to serve alongside an outstanding Administrative Team. Their dedication and willingness to serve are a true reflection of this year's presidential theme:

The Power of Us: Honoring the Joy of 76 Years of Unity, Advocacy, and Healing 

Please join me in welcoming and celebrating our 2026–2027 Administrative Team:

Leona Richards-Bishop – President 

Amanda Desnoyers – President-Elect 

Heather Norton – Immediate Past President 

Jana Slay – Treasurer 

Jan Lemon – Secretary 

Jayme Sullivan – Executive Director 

Karla Weir – Parliamentarian 

Together, we are committed to supporting our members, advancing the counseling profession, and serving counselors across Mississippi with excellence. Here's to a year of collaboration, growth, advocacy, and healing—because our greatest strength has always been The Power of Us.

 

Trauma-Focused - Certified EMDR Therapist and IFS-Informed EMDR Consultant

 President, Mississippi Counseling Association