We're giving away $5,000 for Counselling Research

We’re pleased to announce the launch of the CPCA Research Grant Initiative – a new program designed to support counselling research and strengthen the evidence base for our profession.

As part of the inaugural round, five research grants of $1,000 will be awarded to anyone working or studying in the field of Counselling. Research will focus on improving counselling practice and outcomes across key population groups, with successful projects published in a dedicated CPCA Research Journal.

Member-driven association.

CPCA is a Low-cost, Member-driven association for Practising Counsellors, Students, and Associated mental health professionals. Find your community and develop your practice with us.

Become a Member

CPCA & AACAD Journal: Spring 2026

Calling for Submissions: Small Moments in the Big Picture

Spring Journal : Call for Submissions! Our next theme is “Small Moments in the Big Picture”. We are looking for articles and artwork that capture the “small moments in the big picture” of your counselling, community, aged, disability and mental health journey. We’d love to see your perspective and invite you to share your creative voice with our community! A Note on Artwork:  Please note that by submitting your artwork, you grant CPCA the non-exclusive right to publish and display your work in our journal and related materials. You retain all other rights and ownership of your original artwork.

Member-driven association.

CPCA is a Low-cost, Member-driven association for Practising Counsellors, Students, and Associated mental health professionals. Find your community and develop your practice with us.

Supporting the Future of Counselling Research in Australia

Announcing: CPCA Research Grant Initiative

We’re pleased to announce the launch of the CPCA Research Grant Initiative – a new program designed to support counselling research and strengthen the evidence base for our profession.

For the inaugural grant round, CPCA will award five research grants of $1,000 each, helping researchers investigate counselling approaches for priority population groups while contributing to the profession’s growing evidence base.

Become a Member

Join today! CPCA is welcoming new members including students studying Counselling.Review our membership requirements and apply.

Find a Counsellor

Find a specialist able to support you, no matter your background or personal struggles. The Community is here for you, reach out and CPCA can link you with a Counsellor able to help.

Ongoing Professional Development

Counsellors working in the field are able to complete Ongoing Professional Development (OPD), visit our resources to help in your journey.

About CPCA

Certified Practising Counsellors Australia (CPCA) guides you through Professional Development, connects you with Community, and supports you through difficult times. Since establishing in 2021, Counsellors all over Australia have worked with CPCA as a professional organisation dedicated to advocating for and on behalf of counsellors and their clients nationwide. We represent the interests of both the public and our members, acting as an intermediary body for both parties. Our organisation believes in maintaining strong relationships and advocating for fair outcomes for all. We’re committed to creating a unified voice for the counselling profession and aide those practicing to reach their full potential, and ultimately achieve better client outcomes.

We provide Counsellors a professional authentication and recognition of their education qualifications, networking through our Community, and affordable membership allowing even newly-graduated Counselling students access to professional-grade resources and peer support. Where required, CPCA can also mediate between Counsellor and client concerns and communications.

Discover CPCA’s career opportunities, certified courses for personal development and up to date resources as a member today!

We’re here for you.

Free Resource

Your guide to CPCA Membership

Download the free guide to CPCA Membership, complete with association info, member benefits, latest updates, and community FAQs.

Discounted Insurance

We are pleased to announce that CPCA has partnered with MME Australasia Insurance Services to support our members’ insurance and risk management requirements.

We have negotiated the most feature-packed and affordable package, exclusive to CPCA Members.

NDIS Registered

The NDIS Quality & Safeguards Commission have assessed that CPCA meets the requirements for recognition as a professional body. CPCA Members are able to work with NDIS clients and receive funding for their services.

Please note: NDIS funding is only available for Standard Members

Ongoing Professional Development

Complete Ongoing Professional Development (OPD) courses online.

Get published in a peer reviewed journal

CPCA publishes a regular journal, filled with stories and resources from members like you! This is a fantastic opportunity to be published and peer reviewed. We welcome all members to submit their articles and will be in touch when calling for submissions.

FAQs

Have a question about CPCA? Check our general FAQs to see if we can answer it, or feel free to get in touch anytime on our Contact Us page.

Who can become a Member of CPCA?

If you’re currently studying a Counselling course, or have graduated with a Diploma level or higher qualification, you’re able to apply for CPCA Membership! CPCA benefits everyone, and together we build a community of peers to move our profession forward.

Are Counsellors required to join an Association?

There’s no legal requirement for Counsellors to join an association in Australia, however joining an association allows opportunities for Professional Development, Networking, and Visibility to potential clients and employers.

Different associations can offer different benefits. CPCA’s vision is to create a unified voice for the counselling profession and aide counsellors to reach their full potential.

Who regulates Counsellors in Australia?

CPCA provides authentication and recognition of counsellor education qualifications. Becoming a Member of Certified Practising Counsellors Australia demonstrates a high level of quality education and training.

How to become a Certified Practicing Counsellor in Australia?

CPCA’s Approved Colleges and Courses are the fastest way to be approved as a Certified Practising Counsellor in Australia. Browse our list of approved colleges and find a provider that suits you.