An applicant will be considered as “qualified” from the point in time when they receive a final transcript of results that has been ratified by the exam board.
A Pre-Accredited Member may use the title "Pre-Accredited Member IACP" (an exact phrase only) on documentation. They may not represent themselves as an Accredited Member and may not use the initials MIACP. Pre-Accredited Members must abide by the IACP Code of Ethics and Practice and are subject to the IACP Complaints Procedure.
Pre-accredited and accredited members are encouraged to protect the value of counselling by working only where payment is offered if at all possible.
Membership of this category does not guarantee IACP Accreditation.
It is an IACP requirement that all Pre-Accredited Members must have current and valid IACP Garda Vetting. IACP Garda Vetting cost is €30.00, and this cost is included in the processing fee.
Vetting applications may take from 4 weeks up to 20 weeks. Waiting time depends on the level of demand in the National Vetting Bureau at the time of application. If an application is not complete, incorrectly completed or additional information is required, the processing time may be longer. For more information, click here.
It is an IACP requirement that all Pre-Accredited Members log 10 hours of CPD per annum. For more information, click here.
Eligibility for IACP Student Membership will apply to applicants currently attending IACP Accredited Courses only. Eligibility for IACP Pre-Accredited Membership will apply to applicants who have qualified from IACP Accredited courses only. Applicants from Non-IACP Accredited courses, including applicants from outside Ireland, may still apply for First Time Accreditation directly to the Accreditation Committee (once they have completed all the necessary client hours etc.)
Formal recognition of your qualifications and experience through our accreditation process.
Representation: The IACP champions the contribution of Counsellors, Psychotherapists and the profession. We strongly lobby (Government, Political parties, Department of Health and Children, Health Committee’s, Allied Health Professions and other National Bodies) on key issues and priorities. The central aim of the Statutory Regulation of Counselling and Psychotherapy forms a large part of this work. We also influence policy development and plans through Responses and Submissions.
Continuing Professional Development (Free Members Seminars): IACP provides several free seminars and webinars for members annually.
Publicity: One of IACP’s main aims is to inform the public of Counselling and Psychotherapy benefits. We do this through our public relations and communications strategy, which concentrates on public events, press releases, interaction with the media and direct advertising. Our communications work highlights the importance of Professional Standards and the services that IACP and its members offer the public.
IACP Workshops at reduced Rates: IACP supports the provision of workshops countrywide by the IACP regional committees. These workshops cover a wide range of interesting topics. Members receive a discounted rate for all IACP Regional Workshops.
Quarterly Journal: The IACP journal, 'The Irish Journal of Counselling & Psychotherapy' including articles, ‘Notice Board’ and Advertising is sent to members four times a year.
Attendance at AGM: The AGM is an excellent opportunity for you to ensure that you are fully informed of current policies, standards and activities. It is also a great opportunity to network with colleagues and fellow members.
Reduced rate to attend the IACP Annual Conference: The new annual conference is a great opportunity to meet other members, hear keynote speakers, attend the Gala Dinner with Carl Berkeley Memorial Award, and participate in different Counselling & Psychotherapy workshops.
Awards: Members are eligible for nomination for Carl Berkeley Memorial Award that recognises outstanding contribution to counselling and psychotherapy development.
Professional Support on Standards of Practice and Education: IACP assists with all types of member enquiries and puts you in touch with the right experts. Members can access a range of information from the office and receive information (by speaking to someone, viewing online or receiving printed guidelines) on practical, ethical, and professional matters. Members can also access IACP publications ranging from the latest professional guidelines to public information leaflets.
E-news: Regular e-mail circular containing information and employment/placement opportunities.
Reduced Professional Insurance: IACP negotiated professional indemnity insurance schemes. O’Brien Finlay: Qualified Therapist - €75 discount, Students - €160 discount.
Regional Support: Support and networking opportunities are available at regular Regional meetings nationwide.
Regional Participation: All members are also automatically members of their Regional branch and can network with local colleagues and help influence the Association’s priorities.
Reduced Rate Health Insurance: IACP members can avail of a VHI Group Scheme number 4375, and there are various discounts (minimum of 10%) depending on the scheme selected.
International Representation: The IACP represents members’ views internationally and continues to work with the BACP (with whom we have full reciprocity), the International Association for Counselling, Counselling in Scotland (COSCA), amongst others.
International Recognition: IACP members are also automatically entitled to become European accredited (EAC) Counsellors by joining EAC.
IACP Membership Card: The IACP Membership card, in conjunction with Countdown Ireland, offers IACP members official recognition of their IACP membership and the ability to benefit from a wide range of deals nationwide (effective from June 2018).
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