Help Center and FAQ
Everything you need to know about PCA standards and membership.
About TDP
What is TDP? +
TDP is a non-governmental organization that brings together an interdisciplinary staff of psychosocial support specialists. We set standards, conduct the registration process and competency certifications, and support professional development and the quality of work with clients.
Is TDP a university or state licensing body? +
No. TDP is not a university or state body. Our certificates are of a competency (private) nature and confirm compliance with the Association's standards.
What does TDP certification provide? +
Certification provides, among other things: the ability to use the title 'TDP Registered Psychosocial Counsellor', a profile in the public register, access to tools and materials, a development path (specializations, supervision, CPD), and a clear standard of practice.
Does the TDP certificate authorize the practice of a regulated profession? +
No. TDP certificates are not a state license and do not replace the qualifications of regulated professions. We use clear information about the competency nature of certification on the website and documents.
Does TDP provide 'healthcare services'? +
No. TDP's activities are supportive, educational, and developmental (counselling, psychoeducation). In cases requiring medical care, we refer to appropriate facilities.
What areas of work does psychosocial counselling cover? +
Most often: stress, life difficulties, relationships, communication, emotion regulation, crisis support, change planning, habits, well-being, social skills, and prevention.
What does TDP avoid in communication and standards? +
We avoid language suggesting the performance of psychotherapy or clinical services (if the person does not have separate qualifications). We speak clearly about psychosocial support, counselling, and education.
Registration and Certification
What does the registration process look like step by step? +
1. You fill out the online application form. 2. The Committee evaluates the application. 3. You get access to the portal and checklist. 4. You send documents for verification. 5. After verification and payment, you receive the certificate. 6. Your account becomes active.
What documents are required? +
Depending on the level: diplomas, training certificates, proof of experience, criminal record certificate, current first aid course, and (for renewals) supervision and CPD documentation.
Must the documents be current? +
Yes. Documents must be current and valid at the time of registration and renewal.
How long does the registration process take? +
It depends on the completeness of the documents. The process is fastest when checklists are filled out carefully and scans are legible.
Can I apply if I am just starting out? +
Yes — we have a Candidate/Student level. Key is a clear definition of the development stage and scope of work (under supervision).
Can I apply from abroad? +
Yes. Registration takes place remotely. Certificates can be issued in PL and EN.
Payments
Can I pay with cash? +
No, payment is accepted only via a special individual link for the user - payment processing is handled by STRIPE service and is generated only after logging into your account. We do not send payments outside the system via email or SMS.
Is membership paid? +
Yes, an annual membership fee is charged.
Standards
What standards apply to every member? +
We require: a clean criminal record, mandatory supervision, Continuing Professional Development (CPD), adherence to the Code of Ethics, and current first aid knowledge.
How does the register audit work? +
We conduct audits to confirm the currency of documents. Failure to meet standards may result in a request for supplements or suspension of status.
Can I take a leave of absence from the register? +
Yes, there is a leave policy. During this time, the 'active' status is suspended.
Can I appeal the Committee's decision? +
Yes. An appeals process ensures an impartial review of the case.
Supervision and CPD
Is supervision mandatory? +
Yes. Supervision is mandatory for all membership levels.
What forms of supervision do you accept? +
Individual, group (2–6 people), and peer (intervision) for senior practitioners.
How many hours of supervision must be shown? +
Standard minimum of 10 hours in the billing period.
What is CPD-A and CPD-B? +
CPD-A (active) includes trainings, workshops, courses. CPD-B (passive) includes readings, publications, projects.
How many CPD points are needed? +
The annual standard is 50 points (approx. 10h) from each category (A and B).
Other Questions
How long is the certificate valid for? +
The certificate is valid until March 31 of the following year and renewed upon meeting requirements.
Is the certificate issued in English and Polish? +
Yes, standardly in both languages. In addition to the certificate, you receive an additional document called Statement of the Certification & Membership Committee.
Are specializations mandatory? +
Not always. You can be a general counsellor or have specializations. They are a competency profile, not a legal authorization.
Does TDP have a Code of Ethics? +
Yes, and it is strictly binding for members.
What if a client files a complaint? +
A complaint process exists. Possible actions include explanations, recommendations, supervision, and in extreme cases, removal from the register.