What was the original name of the AACD?

The original name of the AACD, which is now known as the American Counseling Association (ACA), was the American Personnel and Guidance Association (APGA). This organization focused on the fields of counseling and guidance, particularly in educational and career development contexts. The name change to AACD occurred to more accurately reflect the organization’s broader scope beyond personnel guidance to include all aspects of counseling.

Other options presented refer to different organizations or later adaptations and names that do not accurately capture the historical beginnings of the AACD. For example, the American Counseling Association is the contemporary name of the rebranded APGA, while the Association for Career Development and National Career Services represent different entities focused specifically on career development, which were not the original intent of APGA. Thus, recognizing the correct historical context of the APGA as the predecessor of the AACD is essential for understanding the evolution of the professional landscape in counseling.