Counselling program acquires national accreditation

The University of Queensland has become the first Australian university to gain national accreditation for a graduate program in counselling through the peak industry association.

The endorsement of the Master of Counselling by the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), coupled with existing accreditation received by the Australian Association of Counsellors (ACA), ensures the program has gained full recognition and approval with both major professional counselling bodies in Australia.

Program Director Dr Judith Murray said receiving certification by PACFA was a wonderful accomplishment, particularly as assessment standards were becoming increasingly strict.

“To gain accreditation from a leading industry association is testament to the quality of the program, especially under the new tough criteria,” Dr Murray said.

“Over the last three years PACFA has been putting in place a much more stringent accreditation process for assessing training courses. This comes as part of the move in this country to increase the professional standing and standards of counsellors.

“We are the first program in the country to undergo, and be approved under, this new stringent process.”

PACFA is a peak professional association for counsellors and psychotherapists. The federation aims to promote the development of professional psychotherapy and counselling practice in Australia.

The association provides industry news, useful guidelines for practitioners and a national register of counsellors and psychotherapists.

Accreditation from industry bodies such as PACFA could not be underestimated, Dr Murray said.

“As the profession of counselling and psychotherapy is not regulated by law, there is not one course or qualification required to be recognised as a professional in this field,” she said.

“Receiving accreditation from industry associations ensures our graduates are practicing at the highest level possible and that industry standards are maintained.”

The two-year program, which was only established at UQ in 2004, is offered through the School of Social Work and Human Services and the School of Psychology. It received PACFA accreditation for five years, commencing March 19.

The Master of Counselling program provides graduate students with an in-depth practice knowledge base and practical skills of professional counselling.

The program aims to ensure the quality and competence of counselling graduates who will serve individuals, couples, families and groups in our community.

For more information about the program please contact the School of Social Work and Human Services on 07 3365 2068 or visit www.uq.edu.au/swahs

Media: Dr Judith Murray on 07 3365 7181 or judith.murray@uq.edu.au