The South African Association for Counselling Psychology (SAACP)
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.
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.
Take our poll where we ask Counselling Psychologists to reflect on the HPCSA document.
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
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.
* Disclaimer: Please be aware that the information and video content provided here are accessible to others and may be viewed publicly.
Full Member
Associate
Affiliate
Registered Counsellor & Psychometrist
Psychology Intern
Student Member
Dr Lauren Martin
Dr Kamilla Rawatlal
Deneo Nande Sekese
Prof. Megan Campbell
Dr. Phillipa Haine
Kendall Byne-Ross
Willem Pieters
SAACP Mental Health Panel Discussion
SAACP Response to HPCSA Training Framework
HPCSA Training Framework
