Methodology standards

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

The IAPCCT CBT standard sets out competent, evidence-based cognitive and behavioural practice, aligned in spirit with recognised CBT competence frameworks.

Formulation
Contact cycleav
Behavioural activation
Exposure
Outcome measures

Recognition & alignment

Consistent with recognised evidence-based CBT competence frameworks.

Purpose

This standard defines the competencies required for evidence-based cognitive and behavioural practice at each stage of professional development.

Scope

It applies to members practising CBT approaches, to accredited programs, and to certifying institutes.

The five-level structure

The progression at a glance.

AP

Associate Practitioner

Foundations
P

Practitioner

Competent practice
MP

Master Practitioner

Advanced practice
T

Trainer

Trains practitioners
MT

Master Trainer

Trains trainers
Level standards

What competence looks like at each level.

AP

Associate Practitioner

Explains and applies the cognitive model in structured, collaborative work.

Entry

Open to all; no prior qualification required.

Indicative training
30 to 60 hours
Supervised practice

Not required

Assessment

Attendance and a demonstrated grasp of the CBT model.

Competencies
Underpinning knowledge
P

Practitioner

Assesses, formulates and delivers core cognitive and behavioural interventions.

Entry

An Associate-level foundation or equivalent.

Indicative training
120 hours
Supervised practice

50 hours logged

Assessment
Assessed practice, including a case formulation.
Competencies
Underpinning knowledge
MP

Master Practitioner

Works with complex and schema-level presentations and adapts protocols.

Entry

A Practitioner credential in this methodology.

Indicative training

125 hours plus, with supervision

Supervised practice

150 hours logged

Assessment
Assessed advanced practice and supervision.
Competencies
Underpinning knowledge

Work with diagnosed conditions is undertaken within an appropriate clinical qualification and under supervision.

T

Trainer

Trains and assesses CBT practitioners.

Entry
A Master Practitioner credential and practice experience.
Indicative training

120 hours plus, with supervision

Supervised practice

Supervised delivery

Assessment

Supervised delivery and assessment.

Competencies
Underpinning knowledge
MT

Master Trainer

Certifies CBT trainers and stewards the standard.

Entry

A Trainer credential and a substantial training record.

Indicative training

5+ years post-Trainer; delivered programs

Supervised practice
Documented record
Assessment

Board and peer review.

Competencies
Underpinning knowledge
Indicative requirements for guidance. Exact requirements are confirmed by the certifying institute and the IAPCCT Standards Framework.
Ethics & scope

Practised within the Principles.

CBT for diagnosed conditions is delivered within an appropriate clinical qualification and under supervision. Practitioners applying CBT-informed techniques in coaching contexts work within their scope and refer on where clinical needs arise.

Last updated on March 31, 2026

Train or accredit in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.

Membership, credentials and accreditation all map to this standard.