This section may help you answer some questions you may have about applying to register as a counsellor with ACC.
What is a case study?
A case study is a concise, practical account of how you have counselled one of your clients who is recovering from the psychological effects of sexual abuse or physical injury.
When applying to register, you must provide TWO case studies for each area of counselling you’re applying for (ie sexual abuse and/or physical injury counselling).
When applying to register for sexual abuse counselling, at least one case study should involve childhood sexual abuse.
Important: To protect your clients’ privacy, please do not name them in your case study, or use key personal/geographical references that may reveal their identity.
Each case study should be approximately three typed pages (1500-1700 words) and include:
- brief details of the abuse/accident to demonstrate its relevance for ACC cover
- background information about the client – include their psychological functioning and their relationships with significant others in their life
- comprehensive assessment of the impact of the abuse/injury on the client’s past and present functioning. Wherever possible, differentiate between the effect of the abuse and other events in the client’s history
- information about what led the client to seek counselling. Give full details of their presenting symptoms
- a causative summary or formulation of the client’s presenting difficulties linked to an outline of treatment planning
- an account of the issues addressed in therapy and how you dealt with these. Demonstrate how you used recognised techniques
- the outcomes achieved in therapy. Link these clearly to the presenting issues.
As part of the above, or separately at the end of your case study, also include:
- an account of the process and pacing of therapy, showing how you and the client managed contextual, interpersonal and relationship issues
- discussion of the termination issues that arose and how you dealt with them
- brief account of any issues that made the case personally demanding for you, why you found it personally demanding and how you responded to this.
How are applications assessed?
An independent evaluation panel, made up of representatives from various New Zealand counselling bodies, reviews all applications.
The panel will assess your qualifications and experience against ACC’s criteria. ACC will use the panel’s recommendations to make a final decision on your application.
As part of the application process, a police check will be carried out. ACC asks the New Zealand Police for any information they have about you. This may include details of criminal convictions, except those covered under Section 7 of the Criminal Records (Clean Slate) Act 2004.
What happens if my application is successful?
If your application is successful, ACC will send you an acceptance letter and your personal ACC provider number. This is the number you use to invoice ACC for services.
ACC will also send you a range of other information that will explain all about working with ACC.
What happens if my application is declined?
If your application is declined, ACC will send you a letter explaining why. This will help you see what factors you need to address if you reapply in the future.
If you do decide to reapply, you will need to complete a new application.
How soon will I learn the outcome of my application?
ACC aims to notify you of our decision within four weeks of receiving your completed application.
Does it cost anything to apply?
No, there are no charges for applying to ACC, or registering.
What factors may prevent my registration?
You may not qualify for registration if during the last five years you have:
- been disbarred from membership of an organisation or body for disciplinary reasons
- had your employment or affiliation terminated for disciplinary reasons
- been convicted of an offence under sections 124-210 of the Crimes Act 1961, or a similar offence in another jurisdiction
- been released from prison.
Further information
If you need any other information, contact us.
Last updated: 20 February 2009