Continuing Professional Development (CPD) refers to the process through which professionals maintain and enhance their knowledge, skills, and abilities throughout their careers. CPDÂ is an essential component of maintaining professional competence and ethical practice as a counsellor.
Are there CPD Rules for Counsellors?
In Australia, peak industry bodies like the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) establish the CPD standards for counsellors. To maintain their membership, counsellors must complete a specific number of professional development hours annually and provide evidence of their participation, such as certificates or transcripts.
What Counts as CPD for ACA Counsellors?
All Australian Counselling Association (ACA) members must accumulate 25 CPD (or OPD)points annually. The ACA assigns CPD points based on the duration of activities and their approval status. ACA-approved activities, which undergo a formal application process, are allocated more points.
This is a summary of the ACA approved CPD points system:
- Chapter or MA Meetings (3 points for a 60-minute presentation for approved events only);
- Online Training that are non-ACA events (3 points for 1-6 hours, 6 points for 6+ hours );
- Workshops that are non-ACA events (3 points for 90 minutes to 6 hours, 6 points for more than one day);
- First Aid Certificate course for private health providers (6 points);
- Conferences that are non-ACA events (3 points for 6-24 hours, 6 points for 2+ days.);
- Courses and Qualifications (5 points/unit for non-ACA approved courses.);
CPD must be accrued within the individual membership year.
What CPD evidence is required for an ACA Counsellor?
For CPD evidence of online training to be accepted by ACA it must provide a certificate that follows an online assessment. All Therapas courses indicated to be suitable for Counselors meet this requirement.
The Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) requires all its registered members, including counsellors, psychotherapists, and Indigenous Healing Practitioners, to complete a minimum of 20 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours annually. Unlike the ACA’s points system, PACFA directly equates each hour of learning to one CPD hour, aligning with standards for other mental health professionals.
What Counts as CPD for PACFA Counsellors?
PACFA divides CPD activities into two categories:
Category A (Mandatory): This category requires a minimum of 10 hours of active participation in activities such as in-person workshops, seminars, conferences, or online facilitated learning. Online facilitated learning must involve interaction with a facilitator, either during or after the event, through forums or email.
Category B (Optional): This category allows for a maximum of 10 hours of more passive learning, such as watching videos, reading articles, or attending supervision sessions exceeding annual requirements. Teaching, formal presentations, and peer learning groups without a formal facilitator can also be included in this category.
The 20 hours of CPD must be accrued in the 12 months prior to membership renewal i.e. between 1 July and 30 June in the previous 12 months.
What CPD evidence is required for an PACFA Counsellor?
All registered individuals must maintain a Professional Portfolio and be prepared for random audits every three years. When selected for an audit, you’ll be notified and asked to provide the following:
- A schedule of CPD activities completed within the reporting period.
- Supporting evidence, such as certificates of attendance or other relevant documentation.
- Reflective journal entries for activities categorized as Category B (a template is available here).
All Therapas trainings provide PACFA compliant certificates.
For more detailed information on PACFA’s CPD standards, including supervision requirements and specific guidelines for accredited supervisors and mental health practitioners, please refer to the PACFA website.
- Enhanced Clinical Skills: CPD allows you to refine your existing skills and acquire new ones, leading to more effective and compassionate counselling.
- Staying Abreast of Industry Trends: By engaging in CPD, you’ll be aware of the latest research, theories, and techniques in the field of counselling.
- Ethical Practice: CPD helps you stay informed about ethical guidelines and regulations, ensuring you maintain the highest standards of practice.
- Client Well-being: By continuously learning and growing, you’ll be better equipped to help your clients achieve their therapeutic goals.
Key Tips for Successful CPD Year:
- Set Clear Goals: Define your CPD objectives and create a personalized learning plan.
- Develop a Learning Plan: Don’t wait until the last month.
- Prioritize Reflection: Regularly reflect on your learning and how it impacts your practice.
- Maintain Detailed Records: Keep a record of your CPD activities for future reference and audit purposes.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from professional associations or mentors.
- Balance Work and Learning: Find a sustainable approach to CPD that fits your lifestyle and workload.
By embracing CPD, you can elevate your counseling practice, enhance client outcomes, and contribute to the ongoing development of the counseling profession.
Please note that this information is intended as a general guide and may not cover all specific circumstances. It’s essential to consult the official guidelines and regulations from the ACA and PACFA for the most accurate and up-to-date information
