RECOGNISED ASSOCIATION FOR COUNSELLORS
There is a vast need to regulate the counselling profession nationally in order to ensure that counsellors “know their scope of practice, behave ethically in a counselling context, conform to minimum standards, know when to refer clients and understand the psychological consequences for clients if counsellors are inadequately trained or overstep their scope of practice.” “Scope of Practice” refers to the boundaries within which the counsellor operates without referral as defined by own work context.
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ID 984
SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority)
2,500+
Registered Members
Required
Continuous Professional Development
About The ASCHP
The ASCHP is home to community or workplace-based counsellors who work in structured and supervised environments including, but not limited to private Wellness or Counselling Centres or government institutions, schools, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO’s) including Faith Based, Community Based and Not-for-Profit Organisations, the South African Police Service, Counselling Call Centres, Hospitals, Clinics and Support Agencies, Sports Centres, Education and Training facilities, Health and Emergency services and facilities.
Nationally Recognised
Scope of Practice
Stay Informed
CIRCULARS
ASCHP Important Circular June 2025
Holistic Horizons April edition
Important Circular to ASCHP members
Status, Membership, Training & Governing Board
Read more by clicking the buttons below:
Status
The ASCHP (ID 984) is a SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority) recognized professional body with listed designations on the National Qualifications Framework (Act 67 of 2008). The ASCHP provides membership to counsellors who work in the non-statutory domain, i.e. who are not psychologists.
The ASCHP is affiliated to the Council for Counsellors in South Africa and the Natural Healers Association. The ASCHP fulfils the following functions in accordance with SAQA requirements:
- Is a legally constituted entity governed by a constitution to practice according to good corporate governance principles
- Assures protection of public interest in relation to services provided by its members and the associated risks.
- Develop, award, monitor and revoke professional designations in terms of set rules, legislation and international conventions and disciplinary measures.
- Is obliged to keep a record of members and submit a list of our members to SAQA together with the required personal information.
- Can apply RPL (Recognition Prior Learning) in order to qualify an applicant for membership registration in terms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.
- Set criteria for, promote and monitor continuous professional development (CPD) for our members in order to enjoy on going professional training to stay abreast of latest research and amendments to legislation.
- Provides a code of conduct and operate a disciplinary mechanism for the reporting and investigation of members who are alleged to have contravened the code.
- Practice fair admission of membership and objective recognition of educational providers. Make career advice related information available to education and training authorities and providers such as the SETA’s.
- See to it that its members practice within their professional scope of practice.
- Members of the public have access to the ASCHP to request recommendations to a registered counsellor in specific geographical areas.
AAB - Governing board
| CEO: | Dr Liezl Herholdt |
|---|---|
| Chairperson: | Keshnie Mathi |
| Finance/HR: | Joshua Vorster |
| Disciplinary Matters: | Limari Herholdt |
| Public relations: | Dr Vic Herbst |
| Marketing: | Daniel Herholdt |
| Member representative: | Norman Nkambule Andrew Mosia |
| Secretary: | Marike Gower |
Membership, entrance requirements and RPL
The application form is fairly comprehensive as SAQA requires the information of each member to be uploaded onto the NLRD (National Learner Record Data Base) for statistical purposes.
Membership is from year to year and an annual membership fee is payable upon renewal after 365 days every year. Renewal remittances are normally sent to members but it remains the obligation of every member to see to it that membership is duly renewed irrespective of whether a renewal notice is received or not. A registration certificate issued for each year of registration must be displayed in the consultation office of the counsellor. A membership card to carry in one’s wallet is also issued.
A constitution and ethical code will be made available to each registered member. This will provide a guideline for practice.
Membership is per category related to level of academic/professional training and members may upgrade by following a lifelong learning pathway.
Annual membership renewal depends on the following criteria of good standing:
Membership renewal fees paid up
CPD training is up to date
Ethical integrity
Acceptable professional performance
Good business conduct
Prospective members are required to complete the Quick Evaluation Form and pay the evaluation fee, followed by completing the pro-forma ASCHP application form which can be obtained from the ASCHP office. Please note that the Board has the right to expect an applicant to write a prescribed board examination as entry level requirement for membership where and when deemed necessary. Candidates, who do not possess accredited and applicable qualifications, may apply for membership if they have good reason to believe that they may qualify in terms of professional competence and or counselling experience. A RPL panel will assess the evidence against an accredited and applicable qualification and make a recommendation for membership to the Board in terms of the ASCHP RPL policy. RPL application forms can be obtained from the ASCHP office.
Membership and CPD training
Continuous Professional Development is required, per statutory regulation, for all professionals such as counsellors, psychologists, medical practitioners and nurses, social workers, religious workers and teachers. CPD training is compulsory and the obligation as set out in the NQF policy (Act 67 of 2008) determines that a professional body shall “set criteria for, promote and monitor continuous professional development for its members to meet relevant professional designation requirements.” Accordingly the ASCHP offers CPD training to help its members stay up to date with professional requirements, latest research and amendments to the applicable acts. The number of CPD points that a member has to complete per annum depends on the category of registration.
For more information on CPD programmes, please consult the topic CPD‘s.
FAQ’S
Prospective members are welcome to e-mail us should you have any questions, but please check first if your question is not covered by this list of frequently asked questions.
May I fax or e-mail my application form?
Please complete the online form available on the website. Please ensure that all your documents are certified by a commissioner of oaths, not older than 3 months.
What documents must I submit with my application?
It is indicated on the last page of the application form.
May I advertise my counselling services?
Yes. As registered member of a recognized counselling association (professional body) you may legally practice counselling within own scope of practice.
What is the difference between an ASCHP counsellor and other counsellors?
ASCHP counsellors work in holistic settings on primary health level. They are not psychotherapists, psychologist or social workers, but refer clients to these professionals should it be required. The scope of practice of psychologist is reserved for certain interventions such as hypnotherapy, psychotherapy and psychometric and aptitude tests.
What is the process of application?
When the ASCHP office receives your application, it is checked to ascertain whether you have submitted all the necessary documents such as qualifications and references and filled in all the requested information before it is referred to the evaluation panel that will decide your category of registration. If you do not have an accredited qualification (see below), it will be referred to the RPL panel (see below) to assist you with a RPL application. Once the evaluation panel has determined your designation, the registrar will notify you to pay the prescribed RPL fee (where applicable) and registration fee to finalize your registration.
What will I receive once I am registered?
You will receive (1) a registration certificate for the year of registration; (2) a registration card to carry with you; (3) a copy of the ethical code to display and (4) a copy of the constitution as well as (5) the CPD programme.
How does my membership period work?
You are registered for one year from date of registration. A renewal remittance will be e-mailed to you when you need to renew your membership. It is your responsibility to inform our office of any change in your personal details.
Does renewal depend on any conditions?
Yes, on your good standing as member based on the criteria of CPD compliance, professional standing and ethical integrity (no complaints from the public or disciplinary measures against you).
What is CPD?
It is compulsory professional development. All professionals (doctors, psychologist, teachers, nurses, counsellors) working with the public are required to complete annual CPD points in order to stay up to date with professional development and retain membership status (discussed under CPD’s on this website).
Why do I need to register as counsellor?
Negatively, because it is a legal and professional risk if you are not covered by a professional body; positively because it has many advantages to be registered.
What are the advantages of membership registration?
You will enjoy the professional status of being registered which makes it much more acceptable to the public; you will receive professional guidelines and benefit from doing continuous professional development; you will have a clear scope of practice so as not to overstep professional boundaries; the public that you serve will be protected because you submit to a disciplinary mechanism; you may qualify to apply for personal indemnity and malpractice insurance; you will practice with integrity by following a code of ethics.
Will I receive a practice number?
No. You will have a membership number that you can indicate on your visitation card. Only statutory bodies can award practice numbers.
What is the status of the ASCHP?
The ASCHP is the only professional body for wellness counsellors that is recognised by SAQA. It’s designations are listed on the NQF.
What may I call myself if I am a registered member?
This is determined by the designation which is your registration category. The entry level is Supportive Counsellor, and the second level is Holistic Counsellor, the third is Wellness Counsellor and the highest designation being Specialist Wellness Counsellor.
May I register as a student?
Yes. There is a student category called the Candidate Counsellor designation which serves to help you participate in the counselling profession as intern to gain practical experience. This will acquaint you with the regulatory framework of the counselling profession and bring you into contact with the network of counsellors. You will remain on this level until you have completed the qualification that you are enrolled for or after completion of 100 hours practical work.
What do I need to register?
You need an accredited qualification and will be expected to gain at least 100 hours of practical counselling experience.
What is an accredited qualification?
It is a qualification that was awarded by a training and education provider that is registered with the Department of Education or the H & W SETA and offering formal qualifications registered with SAQA. You need to include you verification certificate which you obtained through SAQA. RPL is available for candidates that hold informal qualifications.
If I only have informal (unaccredited) qualifications and experience, may I also apply?
Yes certainly if you are of the opinion that it warrants registration. This is known as recognition of prior learning (RPL) and means that your informal and non-formal learning and work experience can be evaluated against the outcomes expected of a counsellor in a certain category. You may be required to complete some additional prescribed courses to comply.
Is there and additional cost involved?
Yes. The RPL panel will invoice you.
What is the membership fee?
It is determined by your level of registration as indicated by your designation. The fee structure is accordingly set out in the application form.
Who are the people who normally register at the ASCHP?
The members comprise people who have certificates, diplomas, and applicable degree qualification. Counsellors are individuals who are fond of people, empathic and patient listeners and keen to be of service. Many profess to have a calling to do counselling, others see it as a career choice. They come from many ranks such as school leaver, retired professionals, nursing, people with qualifications in psychology and pastoral counselling, herbal healing, energy medicine, teaching and people keen to be of service.
What is the benefit of registration and having a specific designation?
You may use your designation on your visitation card and to advertise yourself. A designation is linked to a scope of practice and the right to work as counsellor within that scope of practice. Members of the public are assured that when you practice as member of a registered professional body you:
- Comply with professional standards and guidelines
- Work within own defined scope of practice
- Meet the minimum training criteria to ensure competence in the field
- Are subjected to a code of ethics and disciplinary measures to comply with good practice
- Are up to date with the latest professional development and legal requirements
- Enjoy the status of a recognized vocation.
What does “supportive counsellor” mean?
It describes the function of a counsellor as one rendering support to a person in need. It may assume the form of encouragement, guidance or empathic listening in the areas of marriage and family problems, trauma incidence, relationship and work, and personal situations such as abuse, addiction, emotional and mental conflict.
What does “holistic counsellor” mean?
It describes the spectrum of human existence with reference to the psyche, social relationships, physical health and spiritual wellbeing. Holism recognises that all the facets are interrelated and mutually influence one another. This requires a comprehensive approach – counselling the complete human being, “body, soul and spirit.”
What does “wellness counsellor” mean?
It describes the objective of holistic counselling – to enhance wellbeing of the client with reference to personal growth and development, acquiring of coping skills, personal , social and work fulfilment, finding meaning and purpose for peaceful existence and living “the good life.”
What does “specialist wellness counsellor” mean?
The word specialist describes a specific focus in counselling/coaching of a counsellor who has completed post graduate training.
What modalities can be used by counsellors?
Modalities cover a wide spectrum such as “talk therapy”, “body therapies” such as healing touch, herbal and nutritional support, visualization techniques, and bio resonance stimulation.
Why would a counsellor make use of herbalism?
Mental and emotional problems are related to physiological function. For instance, people who experience anxiety may benefit from a natural sedative such as valerian, hops or passion flower, and mild depression may be supported by using Hypericum perforatum (St, John’s wort). There are herbs almost every common ailment. The counsellor in a wellness centre will stock these herbal remedies in a small health shop at the centre.
Where do I obtain these remedies?
From many suppliers, but the ASCHP has an MOU with NaCare to make remedies available to ASCHP members at wholesale prices. This could generate extra stream of revenue for the counsellor.
What is bio resonance?
It is a screening technique that quantifies the energy levels of the body to determine weaknesses and deficiencies. It is helpful to compile a comprehensive health profile of your client.
Why do counsellors use body therapies?
Emotional and mental states are also reflected in body conditions, for instance the visceral organs (intestines) contain neurons linked to the brain (“gut feelings”) and that is why anxiety can cause IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). This is known as psychosomatic/psychogenic illnesses. Often emotional states can be relieved by using therapeutic touch.
Where can I learn more about these modalities?
The ASCHP offers CPD training in these modalities and also works with training and CPD providers in these areas.
What training is available?
The ASCHP will accept qualifications and training programmes from any registered training provider, but has preferred providers with tailor-made training programmes suitable to the skills requirements for holistic practice. More information is available from the office.
Do I have to use these modalities?
Of course there is no obligation, just potential. Our experience is that these modalities, in addition to talk therapy, provide and marketing edge to the counsellor. The use of these modalities is, however, optional.
How does counselling proceed?
Counselling requires knowledge of human behaviour, relationship dynamics, emotional states, and general growth and development. The primary aim is not to treat, but to improve, not to diagnose, but to screen (identify), and not to cure, but rather to care. Counsellors make use of various techniques and tools to accomplish this. This requires skills with certain basic outcomes.
What outcomes are needed to be a successful counsellor?
The main outcomes include the following:
- To apply knowledge of counselling skills and techniques within own scope of practice.
- To apply interpersonal skills to coach a client within own scope of practice.
- To apply knowledge of health and wellness in a counselling context.
- To apply communication and numeracy skills in order to be able to analyse, interpret and evaluate information in a counselling context.
Is there and additional cost involved?
Yes. The RPL panel will invoice you.
What is the membership fee?
It is determined by your level of registration as indicated by your designation. The fee structure is accordingly set out in the application form.
Who are the people who normally register at the ASCHP?
The members comprise people who have certificates, diplomas, and applicable degree qualification. Counsellors are individuals who are fond of people, empathic and patient listeners and keen to be of service. Many profess to have a calling to do counselling, others see it as a career choice. They come from many ranks such as school leaver, retired professionals, nursing, people with qualifications in psychology and pastoral counselling, herbal healing, energy medicine, teaching and people keen to be of service.
What is the benefit of registration and having a specific designation?
You may use your designation on your visitation card and to advertise yourself. A designation is linked to a scope of practice and the right to work as counsellor within that scope of practice. Members of the public are assured that when you practice as member of a registered professional body you:
- Comply with professional standards and guidelines
- Work within own defined scope of practice
- Meet the minimum training criteria to ensure competence in the field
- Are subjected to a code of ethics and disciplinary measures to comply with good practice
- Are up to date with the latest professional development and legal requirements
- Enjoy the status of a recognized vocation.