CCC Stands for "Canadian Certified Counsellor). Individuals receiving treatment from CCC's are assured that their clinician maintains specific professional training and ongoing education. Established by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) in 1986, the CCC program is not a regulatory board like other professional bodies in Alberta. However, the CCPA has the authority to self-regulate, certify, advise, and discipline its members on matters of professional conduct, ensuring those with the CCC designation meet educational, ethical, and practice standards.

Only individuals with Certified Canadian Counsellor certification are allowed to use the CCC title in their notes, letters, and reports. To attain this designation, applicants must hold a Master's or Ph.D. level degree in counselling or a related field from a government-recognized and accredited institution. The coursework includes counselling theories, communication skills, professional ethics, and electives in various areas of counselling. Additionally, applicants must undergo a supervised counselling practicum and pass a criminal records check for the vulnerable sector. They also need two references from prior clinical supervisors.

To maintain their registration, clinicians must provide proof of 36 hours of approved continuing education credits every three years.

Although Direct Billing is not available for clinicians with the CCC designation, many insurance policies cover services provided by Certified Counsellors. We always recommend checking in with your insurance company before the onset of services if you are unsure of your plans coverage limits.