CPD After You Qualify
Graduation isn't an end point; it's the beginning of your professional journey. This guide explains what Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is, why it's vital for your career, and how UK Therapy Guild is committed to your lifelong learning.
What is Continuing Professional Development (CPD)?
CPD is the term used to describe the learning activities that therapists engage in to develop and enhance their abilities throughout their careers. It's a commitment to being a lifelong learner.
It's not just about attending courses; CPD can encompass a wide range of activities, including:
- Attending workshops and training on new therapeutic techniques.
- Reading the latest research and books.
- Engaging in peer support groups.
- Undertaking further qualifications or specialisms.
- Receiving clinical supervision.
Essentially, CPD is any activity that maintains and develops your skills, ensuring you continue to provide the best possible service to your clients.
Why CPD is Essential for Every Therapist
Engaging in regular CPD is a cornerstone of being an ethical, competent, and effective therapist. Here’s why it's so important:
Key Reasons for Lifelong Learning
- It's an Ethical Requirement: Professional bodies like the BACP require their registered members to complete a certain amount of CPD each year to maintain their registration.
- Keeps You Current: The field of mental health is constantly evolving. CPD ensures you are up-to-date with the latest research, theories, and best practices.
- Boosts Your Confidence and Prevents Burnout: Learning new skills and connecting with peers keeps your practice fresh, engaging, and can prevent professional stagnation.
- Allows You to Specialise: CPD is the primary way to develop a specialism in a particular area, such as couples counselling, trauma, or working with young people.
Your CPD Journey Starts With Your Diploma
We believe CPD is so important that your journey with it begins during your initial training. We don't just teach you the core curriculum; we provide added value to set you up for success.
CPD Workshops During Your Training
As part of your Level 5 Dual Diploma, you will be invited to complete **additional CPD sessions** on specialist topics. These workshops are designed to expand your therapeutic toolkit and give you practical skills that you can use immediately in your placements and future practice.
The UK Therapy Guild Members' Lounge: Your Career Partner
Our commitment to your development continues long after you graduate. We are proud to offer our graduates exclusive access to the **UK Therapy Guild Members' Lounge**.
This subscription-based platform is your ongoing professional home, providing a wealth of resources to support your career, including:
- Exclusive CPD Courses: Access a growing library of advanced CPD courses at a discounted rate, allowing you to build your specialisms.
- Professional Networking Events: Connect with fellow UKTG graduates and experienced practitioners, building a strong professional support network.
- Resources and Support: Gain access to a range of materials and forums to support your private practice.
- A Pathway to Supervision: The Members' Lounge is a key part of our commitment to helping you on your journey to becoming a qualified supervisor.
From the extra skills you learn during your diploma to the ongoing support you receive as a graduate, we provide a complete framework for a long, successful, and fulfilling career. Ready to join a community that invests in you? Apply for our Level 5 Dual Diploma today.