About IACS

IACS is the premier leader in setting the benchmark for the full range of professional counseling services on college and university campuses. Through a comprehensive peer review process, IACS confirms the highest standards are being met, validates professional excellence, and distinguishes standout counseling centers with its accreditation seal of approval. Continuing a legacy that dates back to 1949, IACS is committed to advancing quality worldwide, encouraging and working with all centers seeking accreditation.

Our Mission
To inspire excellence in college and university mental health by setting standards and accrediting higher education counseling centers worldwide, and to advocate for the mental well-being of all people. 



Our Vision
To be valued by counseling centers and have a national voice; to contribute to a national dialogue on mental health; and to utilize research and stay abreast of comprehensive services that are appropriate and relevant for higher education environments. 


Our Values
To respect the dignity of all human beings; to embrace diversity; to adhere to upholding ethical standards of our profession; and to respect the complexities of the human experience.

  • “I think that the IACS field visitor’s information gathering was concise and sharp. Their comments on improving our services were realistic and reasonable, from immediate to long-term challenges… I believe that site visitors increased the perception of stakeholders about the importance of counseling centers.”


    —Akira Takano, Ph.D., Director

    Counseling Center

    The University of Tokyo

  • “Applying for and achieving IACS accreditation was one of the most important things I did in my early years as director of counseling services at Temple University. By carefully approaching our self-study and digesting the results of our first site visit, the standards and expectations within the department were quickly raised. Beyond that, IACS accreditation increased the stature of the counseling center in the university, since departmental accreditation supports the university’s accreditation. It helped me to advocate for additional staff, more competitive salaries, and additional space.”


    —John L. DiMino, Ph.D., Director

    Tuttleman Counseling Services

    Temple University

  • “The IACS site visit did help reinforce the strengths of the center and what we needed to continue working on in the future - including strategies for gaining higher administrative support.”


    —Mark J. Forest, Ph.D. 

    Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs - Health and Wellness

    Director, Counseling and Psychological Services

    The College of New Jersey

  • “At key times, IACS officers also provided expert consultation on a variety of issues in a respectful and professional manner. That enabled me to communicate in a more nuanced and effective way to other university stakeholders, which, in turn, led to improvement in the counseling center’s relationship to a number of other departments. I highly recommend seeking and maintaining IACS accreditation.”


    —John L. DiMino, Ph.D., Director

    Tuttleman Counseling Services

    Temple University