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Certification Standards

Certification Standards (Two Independent Pathways)

ASA manages counsellor certification and healing practitioner certification through two separate pathways with separate standards. The two certifications are defined independently in course requirements, scope of competence, ethical boundaries, supervision requirements, and review mechanisms.

A. Counsellor Certification Standards (Mental Health Education Pathway)

This pathway applies to members pursuing mental health education, foundational counselling training, and professional development. It emphasises systematic learning, supervision support, ethical practice, record-keeping, and appropriate referral awareness.

Initial Requirements

  • Evidence of study or training in mental health education or counselling-related areas
  • Agreement to the code of ethics and professional boundary requirements
  • Complete identity verification and the required pathway information
  • Supervision, assessment, or practice evidence where required

Renewal and CPD

  • Annual CPD evidence and reflective records
  • Learning updates on ethics and policy changes
  • Professional conduct review and complaint response obligations
  • Renewal application submitted within the valid period

B. Healing Practitioner Certification Standards (Healing Program Pathway)

This pathway applies to healing programs and healing practice in supportive, non-clinical settings. It emphasises service boundaries, ethical explanation, practice supervision, and clear indication of suitable use cases, and it does not replace clinical qualifications.

Initial Requirements

  • Evidence of completed healing program study and method modules
  • Training in ethical boundaries, risk recognition, and referral awareness
  • Complete identity verification and the required pathway information
  • Practice demonstration or supervision feedback where required

Renewal and Practice Standards

  • Records of continuing learning and participation in updated courses
  • Ongoing implementation of service-boundary and explanatory text updates
  • Project records, reflection, and supervision support where needed
  • Renewal application submitted within the valid period

Shared Standards Areas (Applicable to Both Certifications)

Ethics and Professional Conduct

Clear requirements for confidentiality, boundaries, communication methods, and responsibility statements to support safe and responsible practice.

Competence and Scope

Members are expected to work within their training and competence and to make appropriate referrals when necessary.

Records and Accountability

Standardised requirements for record retention, learning evidence, and renewal review documentation.

Certification Review Process (One Workflow, Different Standards)

  1. 1. Select a certification pathway (counsellor or healing practitioner) and submit the required materials
  2. 2. Eligibility and documents are reviewed against the relevant standard
  3. 3. An authorised administrator completes the review and records the pathway type and validity period
  4. 4. Ongoing CPD or practice review and renewal assessment are then managed under the relevant standard