To apply for BACP accreditation (column A to B of the SCoPEd framework) you need be able to demonstrate that you meet the criteria for training, client hours and reflective practice.

When you apply, and throughout the assessment process, you must:

  • be a Registered Member (MBACP)
  • be practising as a counsellor or psychotherapist, and have been in practice for at least three years
  • have undertaken counselling or psychotherapy core practitioner training that is either BACP accredited or:
    • had at least 450 hours of tutor contact hours
    • been undertaken over at least two years (part-time) or one year (full-time)
    • had a supervised placement as an integral part of the training
    • covered theory, skills, professional issues and personal development
  • have accumulated at least 450 hours of supervised practice within three to six years (these do not have to be consecutive years). At least 150 of these hours must be after the successful completion of your core training and the date on your award certificate.
  • have an ongoing current contract for counselling or psychotherapy supervision for a minimum of 1½ hours per month
  • have been supervised for at least 1½ hours a month throughout the period of practice submitted

Training in areas such as coaching, psychological wellbeing practitioner, psychology, social work, nursing, HR, hypnotherapy, NLP, religious ministry and alternative health, while related and of great help, does not qualify for accreditation. This list is not exhaustive.

Complaints and refusals

Your membership subscription must be paid up to date, or a current direct debit must be in place, and remain so during the application process. If a payment fails, you do not pay at all, or your registration is not current, we will not process your application until this is resolved.

Please tell us if you're the subject of a complaint relating to your work as a counsellor or psychotherapist, or in another role that might have a bearing on this work. This does not automatically mean that we will not process your application but we'll need to consider it carefully. Write the details in a Word document, which you'll be able to upload at the end of the online form.

All members agree to abide by our Ethical Framework.