Competency Mandate

 

As professional, ethical counsellors and psychotherapists, our members have demonstrated knowledge of counselling modalities, supervised experience, and natural abilities specific to their chosen scope of practice. Within that therapeutic framework, these professionals effectively and efficiently assess client needs, develop, and maintain a therapeutic alliance, employ appropriate counselling interventions, and manage client cases. Additionally, our counsellors are committed to continued education, professional development, supervision, excellence in communication skills, and purposeful self-care and wellness practices.

 

The CPCA Competency Based Model

CPCA Entry to Practice Core Counselling Competencies

​

Here you will find links to view a brief history of how the expectations of competency profiles have evolved in their definition, recognition, and implementation.

​

• Collaborative work in BC 2005 - Competency Profile

• College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) - Competency Profile

• FACT BC 2019 - Entry to Practice Competency Profile

• ACTA Alberta 2019 - Entry to Practice Counselling Therapist Profile

​

​

Competency Qualification for Registering with the CPCA

 

The CPCA requires all applicants to successfully complete a Qualifying Exam that measures competency in the counselling profession, with a required score above 70% before becoming certified and receive a registered counselling designation for practice. For more information about the qualifying exam, visit the qualifying exam page.