The South African Counselling Society Practitioners Association (SACSPA), legally registered under the registration number 2021/373811/07 (Pty)Ltd, is a professional organization that champions the cause of private sector counsellors. It is committed to fostering a secure environment for professionals, with a particular focus on those serving the LGBTQIA+ community, by enhancing their understanding and knowledge of this community. While SACSPA provides regulation and guidance for counsellors working within the LGBTQIA+ community, it is not exclusive to this demographic, and it welcomes professionals from all areas of counselling. As a regulatory body, SACSPA ensures adherence to professional standards and ethics, thereby cultivating a supportive and inclusive landscape for counselling.
The South African Counselling Society Practitioners Association (SACSPA), a legally registered entity, has set forth several key objectives to uphold the standards of the counselling profession. These include:
In terms of qualifications, SACSPA recognizes those that are accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). SAQA operates under the National Qualifications Framework Act 67 of 2008, which provides a ten-level framework where levels of learning achievement are arranged in ascending order from one to ten. This framework ensures coherence in learning achievement and facilitates the assessment of the national and international comparability of qualifications.
Levels 1 to 4 equate to high school grades 9 to 12 or vocational training, 5 to 7 are college diplomas and technical qualifications, 7 to 10 are university degrees. This structure allows for a clear progression of skills and knowledge, ensuring that each level of qualification is recognized and valued.
In addition to formal qualifications, SACSPA also acknowledges the importance of skills and informal learning. Informal learning refers to unstructured, often unintended learning that occurs outside of a conventional learning setting. It is self-directed, asynchronous, and happens naturally. Examples of informal learning methods include viewing videos, self-study, reading articles, participating in forums. This type of learning can be just as valuable as formal learning, enabling individuals to develop skills and knowledge that may not be covered by formal education or training.
- A copy of your ID, certified (certification is preferred but not compulsory).
- Certified supporting documents for qualifications or experience (certification is preferred but not compulsory).
- Your Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Proof of payment for the non-refundable service assessment fee of R200.00.
- The processing time for membership approval is approximately 14 working days.
- Upon approval of your membership, a separate membership fee will apply.
- We issue registration numbers, not practice numbers.
We would like to bring to your attention several valuable resources available to the public in South Africa. These resources directly link to the respective organizations’ websites, providing essential assistance and raising awareness on various matters.
Lerato M.: “I am so grateful for the compassionate and understanding counsellors at SACSPA. They provided me with a safe space to explore my feelings and identity. Their commitment to cultural sensitivity and gender diversity truly sets them apart.”
Michael S.: “SACSPA helped me navigate the challenges of coming out as gay. Their counsellors are not only knowledgeable but also genuinely caring. I highly recommend their services.”
Nokuthula D.: “As a transgender woman, finding a counsellor who truly understands my experiences was crucial. SACSPA exceeded my expectations. They are professional, empathetic, and affirming.”
Thabo N.: “SACSPA’s commitment to ethical counselling is commendable. They prioritize mental well-being and provide valuable support to the LGBTQIA+ community. Thank you!”
Zinhle K.: “SACSPA’s vision of creating a supportive framework for qualified counsellors is evident in their services. They’ve helped me through difficult times, and I appreciate their dedication.”