The South African Association for Counselling Psychology (SAACP)

OBJECTIVES

The South African Association for Counselling Psychology of PsySSA aims to:

  • Enhance the relationships between psychologists in the field of Counselling Psychology.
  • Promote the professional practice and status of the Counselling Psychologist.
  • Render various types of relevant, accessible and affordable services that are efficient and effective to individuals, groups, organisations and communities, whereby human development and mental health, as well as the development of organisations and communities may be enhanced.
  • Improve the relationships between registered psychologists on the one hand and members of other professions, organisations, and the general public on the other hand.
  • Collect and disseminate information regarding Counselling Psychology to all interested parties.
  • Promote excellence in research, as well as the teaching and development of Counselling Psychology.
  • Promote relevance and excellence in the training of psychologists in Counselling Psychology in order to ensure high standards of service delivery.
INCENTIVES for Membership
What do members receive by becoming members?
  • Participation in SAACP programs and events.
  • Receive updates on recent developments in the field of Counselling Psychology.
  • Members share information on their work and achievements this will also inspire newly graduated counselling psychologists.
  • A sense of identity and community with colleagues with a common passion for advancing counselling psychology. This sense of community is visible in the division’s participation in the PsySSA annual congress, involvement in community projects and presenting awards to eligible members.
Defining Counselling Psychology

The HPCSA defines Counselling psychology as a specialist category within professional psychology that promotes the personal, social, educational and career functioning and well-being of individuals, couples, families, groups, organisations and communities. Counselling psychologists assist people with normal developmental issues, and also prevent and alleviate psychological and mental health disorders that range from mild to moderate severity. Psychological assessment, diagnosis, and formulation draw on a holistic appreciation of people’s lived experiences and their sociocultural contexts. Counselling psychologists deliver a range of high-intensity psychological interventions that take into account the therapeutic potential of positive relationships, and people’s strengths and resources.

These are the minimum competencies prescribed by the HPCSA for South African Counselling Psychologists.

Take our poll where we ask Counselling Psychologists to reflect on the HPCSA document. 

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Current workforce info about the state of Counselling Psychology in SA
  • Recent data highlight a transformative shift in the CP profession in South Africa. Despite this, persistent systemic factors impede the effective utilisation and equitable distribution of CPs nationwide.
  • Early career CP face unique workforce entry challenges, leading to frustration, anxiety, and professional disillusionment. Limited job opportunities beyond private practice prompt consideration of emigration for many. While private practice provides autonomy, financial unpredictability remains a significant drawback. Moreover, the evolving regulatory system is mostly perceived by CPs as confusing, contributing to negative professional experiences and professional subordination.
  • Advocacy and ongoing analysis of CP workforce trends and professional experiences are crucial to support, retain, and optimise CPs as a valuable resource in the country, especially amid debates on the National Health Insurance (NHI) system.
Mentorship and Support
Are you a newly registered practitioner looking for mentorship? If so, we’re here to help! Leave your details here, and we’ll connect you with experienced and established colleagues who can provide the guidance and support you need. Are you an experienced Counselling Psychologist interested in becoming a mentor? We encourage you to join us in empowering and uplifting new colleagues by sharing your expertise and offering invaluable mentorship.

Register your interest in the Counselling Psychology Mentorship Programme

Share your career journey

Post a 30-second video clip where you share what you currently do as a Counselling Psychologist (are you working in corporate, state healthcare or education, a university or private practice or another interesting setting?), how did you get there? (for others who may be interested in the same career path), and what do you love about your current role? 

Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1dIUCjessf5NZ9J-a4GLveHZHot4WZ77M?usp=drive_link

* Disclaimer: Please be aware that the information and video content provided here are accessible to others and may be viewed publicly.

FEES
R150 per year

Full Member

R 150 per year

Associate

R 150 per year

Affiliate

R150 per year

Registered Counsellor & Psychometrist

R 110 per year

Psychology Intern

R 80 per year

Student Member

MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE
Dr Lauren Martin
Additional Member
Dr Kamilla Rawatlal
Additional Member
Deneo Nande Sekese
Additional Member
Prof. Megan Campbell
Chair
Dr. Phillipa Haine
Vice-Chair
Kendall Byne-Ross
Additional Member
Willem Pieters
Secretary & Treasurer
NEWS AND UPDATES  FROM THE DIVISION
SAACP Mental Health Panel Discussion
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DlZYjJSays
SAACP Response to  HPCSA Proposed Training Framework
SAACP Response to HPCSA Training Framework
HPCSA Training Framework

UKZN Student Counsellor Position

Sefako Makatho Health Sciences University - Academic Position
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is on a renewal path with exciting and unique opportunities to shape the training of medical and other health professionals, and scientists in general. We are on a vigorous campaign to attract top talent to join our exciting journey, as reflected in the opportunities below.

SAACP Divisional Workshop: Counselling Psychology in SA: Workforce Recommendations

Mark your calendars for an essential standalone division workshop hosted by the South African Association for Counselling Psychology (SAACP), titled "Bridging Gaps: Examining Workforce Trends and Offering Actionable Recommendations to Support Counselling Psychologists in South Africa." Scheduled for 6 March, from 6-8 PM, this workshop is poised to tackle the pivotal role of counselling psychologists in South Africa.

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