How to become a counsellor?

Counselling Training. ACC have several training providers who are affiliated to the organisation. This means that they are Christian and have agreed to our Statement of Faith. Our training providers teach Christian counselling although this is not confined to one model; there are a variety of models across the agencies. For further information on these providers please see below.

The core training is validated by external awarding bodies. The main two we work with are CPCAB and NOCN. Some training providers also have courses validated by Higher Education Institutions.

There are different frameworks for the delivery of courses according to which awarding body has given validation. However, as a general guide the following applies:

• There are courses at educational level 2, 3, and 4, and some providers work at level 5, 6, and 7. Level 4 is the minimum level required to qualify and to join ACC as a registered counsellor. Currently we do not recognise counselling courses that are only Online.
• There are a set number of guided learning hours for each course in relation to the educational level.
• There are an additional number of student effort hours to do reading, assignments, etc.
• During the course there are times allocated for personal development groups.
• Counselling theory and a variety of models are taught. Skills are taught and practiced.
• As part of the training process trainee counsellors are required to have some personal therapy alongside the course.

ACC Student Membership

Whether or not you are on an ACC approved training course you may wish to join ACC as a student member, progressing to membership of ACC’s student register when you begin your placement. Through our student membership you could benefit from the help and support of others who are on a similar journey. This will help you to explore the subject more fully and confirm is this is your ministry.