Given the overwhelming need for psychosocial and emotional support in Kenya and Africa at large, there is a rapidly growing demand for psychology graduates and well-trained counsellors in a range of vocations and professions, who can provide counselling services and preventative mental health initiatives such as family strengthening, life skills training and social support services.
KIPC seeks to fill this demand through a unique approach to teaching and learning that combines a unique blend of rigorous academic theory, applied skills and experiential fieldwork.
Our students undergo their own empowering process which gives them greater control of their lives and enables them to be responsive to the needs of individuals and groups in a variety of settings.
Whether you are a practising professional, seeking a career change, or following a dream or passion, our mission is to provide all of the information you need to pursue a career as a professional counsellor, no matter where you live.
Complete your education
Becoming a counsellor or therapist requires pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. It’s important for you to earn at least a postgraduate diploma in an area like counselling psychology or a similar field.
When selecting your postgraduate programme, select a course recognised by the Kenya Counselling and Psychological Association(KCPA) to help ensure you can become a registered counsellor.
Gain experience
Gaining practical experience is an important aspect of completing your education. Most recognised programmes require you to complete at least 100 hours of practicum with face-to-face counselling and at least 10 hours of clinical supervision.
Upon completing these hours, you may earn the designation of Provisional Clinical Member (PCM), allowing you to seek employment as a professional counsellor.
Earn a certification
As you begin to work as a counsellor, it’s important to work towards earning your status as a registered counsellor with the KCPA. People who are eligible to register for various statuses under the KCPA membership must meet certain criteria as outlined below.
- Counselling certificates, or an introduction letter from college if still a student,
- Transcripts,
- Personal therapy letter; minimum 10 sessions, not older than two years from a registered counsellor,
- A copy of your national identity card, and
- Two coloured passport photographs.
- Submit a duly filled in official application form from KCPA and payments:
- Application fee: Ksh. 4,000
- Annual subscription: Ksh. 2500
Determine your speciality
As you practise as a counsellor, it’s important to find the niche that you enjoy working in the most. Explore various opportunities and zero in on the one you find most rewarding.
Some examples of places where you may work as a counsellor include:
- Children’s homes
- Community health centres
- Daycare centres
- Family service centres
- Hospitals
- Mental health facilities
- Nursing homes
- Private practices
- Retirement homes
- Schools
- Senior community centres
- Student care centres
Join a professional organisation
Seek opportunities to join a professional organisation, such as one for counsellors in general or one for your chosen speciality. This may provide you with important networking opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals and search for job openings.
Actively participating in a professional organisation may also reinforce your commitment to professional development and demonstrate your abilities to others.
Pursue additional learning opportunities
As a counsellor, it’s important to challenge yourself to continue learning. Keep up to date with the latest psychology practices and regulations, especially through courses required to maintain your KCPA designation.
You may also consider pursuing a higher degree to earn a doctorate, which may provide you with additional career opportunities.
