Mission, Vision & Core Values:
NYS Association of CASAC Professionals
Mission Statement
To advance, unify, and advocate for Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors (CASACs) across New York State.
Vision
To be the leading professional force elevating the value, voice, and visibility of Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors (CASACs) across New York State—empowering a workforce that transforms lives, strengthens communities, and advances the future of behavioral health.
“At the NYS Association of CASAC Professionals, our mission and vision are not just statements on paper. they are our daily compass. We are committed to advancing the role of CASACs, unifying counselors across New York, and advocating for the recognition and respect our profession deserves. Every program, partnership, and policy we pursue reflects our vision of a stronger, more connected workforce that transforms lives and strengthens communities.”
— Lawrence Lange; President, NYS Association of CASAC Professionals
Core Values:
1. Professional Excellence
We promote high standards in training, certification, and ethical practice to ensure every CASAC is equipped to deliver evidence-based, compassionate care.
2. Advocacy & Advancement
We champion the recognition, rights, and reimbursement of CASAC professionals through strategic partnerships and legislative action.
3. Innovation in Workforce Development
We invest in forward-thinking education, technology, and tools that strengthen the impact and sustainability of the CASAC workforce.
4. Unity & Collaboration
We build a strong, inclusive community that fosters mutual support, peer leadership, and shared success among CASAC professionals statewide.
5. Integrity & Accountability
We operate with transparency, ethical responsibility, and a steadfast commitment to the public good.
“When I founded the NYS Association of CASAC Professionals, I envisioned a community where every counselor felt valued, supported, and empowered. Our mission and vision guide us in building that reality, by advancing professional standards, expanding opportunities, and amplifying the collective voice of CASACs across New York. This Association exists because CASACs deserve not only recognition, but also a unified platform to shape the future of behavioral health.”
—A. Maria Mendez; Founder, NYS-CASAC Association
Our Core Values
Professional Excellence
Advocacy
Innovation
Unity
Integrity
Commitment to Growth
Community Engagement
Collaboration
Empowerment
Diversity and Inclusion
Ethical Standards
Leadership
Continuous Learning
Supportive Network
Resource Sharing
Public Awareness
Quality Standards
Respect for All
Strengthening CASAC Professionals
Advance
Advance your professional growth through education, certification, and ongoing support. The NYS Association of CASAC Professionals provides members with access to approved trainings, leadership opportunities, and resources that strengthen skills and expand career pathways in New York’s behavioral health workforce.
Unify
Unify with peers across New York State to build a stronger, more connected profession. Membership creates opportunities to collaborate, network, and share expertise while fostering solidarity among CASACs who are committed to ethical standards and excellence in addiction counseling.
Advocate
Advocate for recognition, fair compensation, and workforce protections. Through collective action, the NYS Association of CASAC Professionals amplifies the voice of CASACs, engages with policymakers, and works to ensure every counselor is valued as an essential contributor to New York’s behavioral health system.
Live the Mission. Share the Vision. Uphold the Values.
Join the NYS Association of CASAC Professionals and become part of a movement that advances the profession, unifies counselors, and advocates for lasting change. Together, we build a stronger workforce and a healthier New York.
