The development of SCoPEd (Scope of Practice and Education) proceeds behind closed doors and tPCA is on standby for any new information regarding the process and implementation of the framework. When we have a clearer idea of what SCoPEd will look like in practice we will formally consult our members on how best to provide support during the implementation phase.
tPCA maintains its position that the framework is hierarchical and oppressive and conflicts with person-centred principles. We believe that the competency criteria prized by SCoPEd omits the personhood of the practitioner and reduces therapy to a dry and operational process based on what the therapist does as opposed to the relational qualities of who they are and what this means for the therapeutic relationship. Competence and knowledge are of course important, but research consistently demonstrates that the quality of the relationship (the very heart of the person-centred approach) is the most important indicator of therapeutic outcomes. The completion of a column C course does not mean that an individual is better at relating. The very essence of the work is overshadowed by the preoccupation with ‘competence’.
We remain committed to our statement published in July 2024: https://www.the-pca.org.uk/blog/scoped-and-the-threat-to-the-person-centred-approach.html
tPCA fully supports the Psychotherapy and Counselling Union (PCU) in its campaign to pressure membership bodies to reconsider their approach to implementation. Please click on the link for more information on how to get involved. https://www.psychotherapyandcounsellingunion.co.uk/campaigns