As a Student member, it is likely that you are at the start of your counselling and psychotherapy career and also new to the IACP.
The IACP will guide and support you as you progress in your training to become an Accredited Member of IACP.
By becoming a Student Member of the IACP, you agree to adhere to the IACP Code of Ethics and Practice. This upholds a high standard of care among students and professionals to ensure the public's protection and helps to guide your own training and practice throughout your career. IACP Code of Ethics & Practice
Student Members may use the title ‘Student Member IACP ’ (an exact phrase only) in documentation.
They may not use MIACP or SMIACP or the IACP logo.
Applicants must be currently attending an IACP accredited course to be eligible to apply for Student membership with IACP.
List of accredited courses
Applicants from Non-IACP Accredited courses, including applicants from outside Ireland, may still apply for First Time Accreditation by applying directly to the Accreditation Committee (once they have fulfilled the relevant criteria).
Please note: From October 6th 2025, the IACP does not require IACP Garda Vetting to be completed by IACP Student Members.
1. Click on the blue button on this page ‘Apply for Student Membership’.
2. Following payment completion, you will receive an email containing a link to your personal online application form.
3. Complete and submit your online application form, where you will be required to upload a recent letter from your college to confirm your current enrolment in an IACP accredited course.
4. You will then receive an email acknowledgement of your completed application. If there are no queries on your application this process will take approximately one month. If there is a query on the application, you will be notified by email.
IACP membership runs from January 1st to December 31st each year.
The cost of IACP Student membership is €84 per annum.
If you apply for membership during the year, a reduced pro-rata fee will apply and will cover membership up to December 31st of the current year. The full membership fee will apply for the following year.
The sooner you join the IACP, the sooner you can avail of the benefits and services that membership provides.
Representation: The IACP champions the contribution of Counsellors, Psychotherapists and the profession. We strongly lobby (Government, Political parties, Department of Health and Children, Health Committee’s, Allied Health Professions and other National Bodies) on key issues and priorities. The central aim of the Statutory Regulation of Counselling and Psychotherapy forms a large part of this work. We also influence policy development and plans through Responses and Submissions.
Professional Support on Standards of Practice and Education: IACP assists with all types of member enquiries and puts you in touch with the right experts. Members can access a range of information from the office and receive information (by speaking to someone, viewing online or receiving printed guidelines) on practical, ethical, and professional matters. Members can also access IACP publications ranging from the latest professional guidelines to public information leaflets.
Continuing Professional Development (Free Members Seminars): The IACP provide several free seminars and webinars for members annually.
IACP Workshops at reduced Rates: IACP supports the provision of workshops countrywide by the IACP regional committees. These workshops cover a wide range of interesting topics. Members receive a discounted rate for all IACP Regional Workshops.
Reduced Professional Insurance: IACP negotiated professional indemnity insurance schemes. O’Brien Finlay: Qualified Therapist - €75 discount, Students - €160 discount.
E-news: Regular e-mail circular containing information and employment/placement opportunities
Quarterly Journal: The IACP journal 'the Irish Journal of Counselling & Psychotherapy' including articles, ‘Notice Board’ and Advertising is sent to members four times a year.
Regional Support: Support and networking opportunities at regular Regional meetings nationwide.
Regional Participation: All members are also automatically members of their Regional branch and can network with local colleagues and help influence the Association’s priorities.
Reduced rate to attend the IACP Annual Conference: The new annual conference is a great opportunity to meet other members, hear keynote speakers, attend the Gala Dinner with Carl Berkeley Memorial Award, and participate in different Counselling & Psychotherapy workshops.
Awards: Members are eligible for nomination for the Carl Berkeley Memorial Award that recognises outstanding contribution to counselling and psychotherapy development.
Publicity: One of IACP’s main aims is to inform the public of Counselling and Psychotherapy benefits. We do this through our public relations and communications strategy, which concentrates on public events, press releases, interaction with the media and direct advertising. Our communications work highlights the importance of Professional Standards and the services that IACP and its members offer the public.
Student members of IACP are required to engage in supervision to ensure ethical and professional development throughout their training.
Supervision provides essential guidance, helping students refine their skills, reflect on their practice, and uphold the highest standards of care. This process supports their journey toward accreditation, ensuring they receive structured oversight from qualified supervisors while gaining valuable experience in the field.
Full Details of Student member Supervision Requirements
Download - Supervisor Report Form for First Time Accreditation
(PDF 448KB)