This page explains what ABCAP checks before approving a therapist’s listing, what we do not verify, and what members are responsible for on an ongoing basis.

What we check at the point of joining

Before a therapist’s listing is approved, we ask for evidence of the following and review it manually:

• Qualifications — a certificate, transcript, or confirmation of enrolment showing the applicant holds, or is working towards, a relevant counselling or psychotherapy qualification.
• Professional body membership (where applicable) — confirmation of current membership of a recognised professional body such as BACP, UKCP, NCS, or NCPS.
• Professional indemnity insurance (where applicable) — evidence of a current policy appropriate to the applicant’s practice.

We may ask for additional information or clarification before approving a listing. Applications that cannot be verified to our satisfaction will not be approved.

What we do not verify

ABCAP is a membership directory, not a regulatory body. There are limits to what we check, and listed members and members of the public should be aware of the following:

• We do not verify the authenticity of every document submitted. We review what is provided in good faith.
• We do not carry out criminal record checks (DBS/PVG) as a condition of joining.
• We do not contact third parties (employers, supervisors, training providers) to independently confirm information.
• We do not continuously monitor members’ credentials after approval. Changes in a member’s qualifications, registrations, or insurance after they join are the member’s responsibility to report.
• Listing in the ABCAP directory is not a guarantee of a therapist’s competence, conduct, or suitability for any particular client.

Member responsibilities

By joining ABCAP, members agree to keep their listing accurate and up to date for as long as their membership continues. Members must notify ABCAP promptly if any of the following change:

• Their qualifications or professional registrations.
• Their professional body membership status.
• Their professional indemnity insurance status (where they hold cover).
• Any matter that affects their fitness to practise.

Providing false or misleading information — whether at the point of application or at any point during membership — is a serious breach of our Membership Terms and Conditions and will result in immediate removal from the directory with no right of appeal.

If you have concerns about a listed therapist

If you believe a therapist’s listing contains inaccurate information, or if you have concerns about their conduct, please use our Complaints and Concerns procedure. We will review the concern and take appropriate action on the listing.

For concerns about a therapist’s professional conduct that go beyond listing accuracy — for example, allegations of misconduct — the appropriate route is the therapist’s own professional body or, for serious matters, the police or a statutory safeguarding authority.

Related policies

• Our Policies and Code of Ethics — the standards all ABCAP members agree to uphold.
• Complaints and Concerns Procedure — how to raise a concern about a listed therapist.
• Membership Terms and Conditions — the contract governing ABCAP membership.

This policy was last updated March 2026.