Get Out the Vote: The 2026 Midterms Are Approaching

By nature as a Counselor, you’re more than an advocate for your clients, yourself, and the profession— you’re an agent of change empowered to help shape policies affecting mental health care for future generations.

In support, we strongly encourage you to vote in the upcoming 2026 elections Nov. 3, and to simplify the process we’ve compiled a free Voting Guide for Counselors with information on why your voice matters, along with resources to understand voting rights and research candidates and ballot measures as you plan for Election Day.

NBCC’s Legislative Research Manager, Jolie Long, MS, EdS, NCC, MAC, LCMHC, emphasizes the far-reaching impacts of midterm elections and why Counselors should prepare and take action to remove barriers to care and advance the profession.

“Voting is a critical right and a fantastic opportunity that enables us to not only promote the well-being of our clients, but to also advocate for the entire Counseling profession. Please use your vote to elect officials who support mental health care and policies that keep the pipeline of Counselors and services flowing.”

Voting is more than civic engagement; again, it’s an extension of your advocacy and an opportunity to be heard. Though about 60% of those eligible to vote did so during U.S. presidential elections in recent decades, only about 40% vote during midterm elections, according to FairVote.org, a nonpartisan organization that researches election trends.

As voters elect members of the House and Senate on Nov. 3, special elections will also be held to fill unexpired terms of senators who’ve vacated their seats, along with elections for state governors across the country.

Though midterm elections are less popular among voters, they are nonetheless critical. Results will have a bearing on your daily work as a Counselor—including who may access your services—and on educators and Counselors-in-training as well. As elected legislators determine federal funding for public health, they will also shape policies on student loans and workforce development, state licensure including the Counseling Compact, Medicare reimbursement and insurance, and other key issues for those working in or planning to enter the profession.

Long underscores the urgent need for mental health services in the United States and policymakers who support Counselors, their clients, and individuals seeking care.

“The need for legislators who are well-informed and committed to preserving and promoting mental health statutes and regulations is more important than ever, as the need for care is rapidly increasing and will not slow in the coming years,” she says. “The legislators we elect will determine the ability of the Counseling profession to remain robust and steadfast in meeting the mental health needs of all Americans.”

Voting is an opportunity to make a difference in your community and beyond in addition to your work with your clients, students, and others. We hope you’ll find our Voting Guide for Counselors useful as you prepare for the upcoming elections.

You can also stay informed on federal legislative initiatives through NBCC’s Grassroots Action Center.