Membership
VISION STATEMENT
Our vision at The Institute of Counseling is to be the first call for mental health counseling, training, intervention, and sensitization by helping individuals towards optimal functionality and establishing a mentally aware society.
To lead the campaign for a mentally healthy society by training professional helpers and providing professional interventions in various fields of counseling and psychotherapy while ensuring and regulating professional standards and ethically guided practice.
MISSION STATEMENT
Becoming part of ICN Membership confirms the willingness of professional Counselors, therapists, psychotherapists, and others in the helping profession to be bound by the rules and regulations guiding ethical practices and the world’s best standard of professional counseling practice. The purpose of the Membership Program of The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria is to promote the aims and objectives of the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria; encourage the development of research and learning of counseling; contribute to the upliftment of counseling in society, promote the ethical conduct of its members, forge stronger relationships and ties among her members and make the counseling professional a standardized and well regulated one while promoting the growth and sustainability of Institute of Counseling and its activities.
Aims & Objectives of Membership
The membership structure of ICN aims:
The membership structure of ICN aims:
To recognize and accommodate the aspirations, professional needs, and challenges of her members and offer better platforms that can help advance their objectives.
To promote the training and development of counseling skills of members.
To provide and promote opportunities for continuing professional development.
To achieve access to quality psychotherapy services for Africans across cultures at all stages of the lifespan.
To build a strong quest for healthy competitive growth and professionalism in Counseling.
To provide a badge of recognition for members as competent and dependable helpers.
To uphold the mission and vision of the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria.
Achieve recognition for Professional Counseling in Nigeria and beyond.
Advocate and sensitize on the subject of mental health counseling.
Achieve access to quality psychotherapy services for Nigerians across cultures at all stages of the life span.
Promote continuing professional development for its members, and forge stronger relationships among them.
Render services to society.
Educate Nigerians about the skills and qualifications of professional counselors.
Build a strong relationship among members and the Management of the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria.
Ensure professionalism and regulations of counseling practice
Build a formidable community of professionals in the helping profession
Foster growth and development of the counseling profession in Nigeria and Africa.
Ensure up-to-date practice through support for research and exposure to new developments in the counseling practice.
Uphold the mission and vision of the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria.
Implement any strategies that will benefit the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria.
ICN Membership Categories
We understand the importance of continuous professional development, and therefore, becoming a member of the institute gives you the benefit of becoming part of a growing network of professional counselors who through the institute has acquired knowledge and materials that have helped them to climb to the peak of the ladder in their career. You will also have access to mentoring and up-to-date materials in the field of counseling and psychotherapy skills and practices.
Currently, there are five categories of membership.
- Student Membership
- Associate Membership
- Professional Membership
- Fellow Membership
- Faculty Membership
Student Membership
ICN TRAINING ROUTE
1. Being enrolled as a student at The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria.
2. Must have met all the requirements for admission and submitted all the necessary documents.
3. Being able to provide proof of enrolment, such as a student ID or admission letter.
4. Must be 20 years old and above.
5. Compulsory attendant of the yearly counselor and therapist conference as well as payment of conference fee.
6. Minimum of 50% attendant of ICN events, webinars, Roundtable, Instant courses etc.
7. Having an interest in the Institute, vision, mission and activities.
8. Must has paid the student registration fee of $50 which doubles as the student membership fees.
9. Being in good academic standing with the Institute as well as commitment to academic works.
10. Minimum of one session of professional supervision organised by ICN.
EXTERNAL ROUTE
Being enrolled as a student of recognised professional partner institutions of The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria.
Being enrolled as a student of recognised university locally or internationally
Being able to provide proof of enrolment, such as a student ID or admission letter from the relevant institutions.
Must be 18 years old and above.
Having an interest in the Institute, vision, mission or activities.
Compulsory attendant of the yearly counselor and therapist conference as well as the payment of conference fees.
Minimum of 50% attendant of ICN events, webinars, Roundatable, Instant courses etc.
Must has paid the student membership fee of $70.
Being in good academic standing as well as commitment to academic works10.
Minimum of one session of professional supervision organised by ICN.
There are many benefits to becoming a Student member of The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria, these includes:
1. Networking opportunities: Joining ICN Student membership allows you to connect with other students, professionals, and experts in your field of interest. This can lead to valuable connections and opportunities for internships, jobs, and mentorship.
2. Skill-building: ICN offers training programs, workshops, and seminars to help students develop their skills and gain practical experience in their field of interest.
3. Leadership opportunities: Joining ICN Student membership can give you the chance to take on leadership roles, such as serving being a course representative or leading a committee. This can help you develop important leadership skills that will be valuable in your future career.
4. Access to resources: ICN offers resources such as research materials, membership newsletter, job postings, seminars, conferences and scholarships that are only available to the members.
5. Community involvement: Joining ICN Student membership allows you to get involved in your community and make a positive impact through service projects and volunteer work.
6. Resume-building: Membership in an organization like ICN is a great addition to your resume, as it shows that you are committed to your field of interest and are actively seeking opportunities to develop your skills and network with others. Overall, becoming a student member of The Institute of Counseling In Nigeria is a great way to enhance your professional experience and prepare for your future counseling career.
1. Students Members who haven’t yet qualified as Associate Members must renew their membership annually to be able to continue to address themselves as Student Member of The Institute. The yearly student membership renewal fees is $10.
2. Must attend yearly conference, be part of the community, have access to resources and be able to qualify for the Associate membership exam. Conferences and other events are discounted for active members.
3. To progress to the Associate Member, student must have pay all the annual membership fees for all the period of being a student members and must have achieved the 50% events attendant criteria.
4. To progress to the Associate Member, student must have attended all the annual conferences for all the period of being a student member.
5. School Cert, OND or other certification holders who are not from partner members institutions or without counseling training related background can only become a student member through the ICN training route.
Associate Membership
Associate membership is open to individuals who do not meet the criteria for Professional membership but will like to add the prestigious Associate membership of The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria to their CV. This individuals must be passionate about the helping profession and must be willing to take their career to the next level. Some common eligibility criteria for Associate membership may include:
ICN TRAINING ROUTE
1. Must have completed studies and met all the criteria for certification. These include submission of all case studies and exercises, CFER, CSPR, two video assignments and any other requirement for certification. (Criteria for certification can be obtained at ICN).
2. Having a professional or personal interest in the Institute’s mission and activities and a willingness to support the Organisation’s goals and objectives.
3. Must be 20 years old and above.
4. Having Being able to provide proof of identity or professional credentials, if required.
5. Must show capacity to practice with integrity and be ethically guided following world best practices and ethically guided professional counseling practice.
6. Must have attended at least two group/individual supervision sessions organised by ICN and provide evidence of such.
7. Must have paid all the required fees including registration, tuition and graduation fees.
8. Must have been a student member for a continuous period of at least one year.
9. Having obtained not less than a Diploma courses at the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria, and completed the CSPR and at least 100 hours CFER.
10. Must have paid the Associate membership registration fee of hundred $100.
11. Compulsory attendant of the yearly counselor and therapist conference as well as the payment of conference fees.
12. Minimum of 50% attendant of ICN events, webinars, Roundtable, Instant courses etc.
13. Having completed the Associate membership application form and provided one reference.
EXTERNAL ROUTE
1. Being a graduate of counseling, psychology or related filed from ICN partner institutions or any reputable institution.
2. Graduate of non-counseling related courses from any reputable University or professional institution with a diploma certification in counseling related field or from ICN partner institutions.
3. Being able to provide proof of graduation such as transcript or certificate
4. Must be 20 years old and above.
5. Having a professional or personal interest in the Institute’s mission and activities and a willingness to support the Organization’s goals and objectives.
6. Must have being practicing for minimum of two years and should be able to provide evidence of case files to show for it (100 hours of CFER minimum)
7. Must have attended at least four group/individual professional supervision sessions yearly with minimum of two of such sessions organised by organised by ICN.
8. Compulsory attendant of the yearly counselor and therapist conference as well as the payment of discounted conference fees.
9. Minimum of 50% attendant of ICN events, webinars, Roundtable, Instant courses etc.
10. Compulsory completion of minimum of 0ne instant courses from ICN.
11. Must be able to pass the FOUNDATIONAL EXAMINATION set up by ICN examination and Licensing Board.
12.Must have paid the Associate membership registration fee of $150.
13. Having completed the Associate membership application form and provided two reference.
Associate membership of The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria can provide several benefits, including:
1.Being enlisted in the membership portal of the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria.
2. Access to resources: Being an Associate member of ICN gives you access to resources, such as research materials, membership newsletter (World Changers), job postings, networking opportunities, seminars, conferences and scholarships that are only available to members.
3. Networking opportunities: Being an Associate member of ICN can provide valuable opportunities to connect with professionals and experts in your field of interest, which can lead to new job opportunities and collaborations.
4. Professional development: ICN offers training programs, workshops, and seminars to help members develop their skills and stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.
5. Advocacy and support: Being an Associate member of ICN provides you a voice in advocating for issues that are important to you or your profession.You may also receive support and guidance from the Organization on professional or personal issues.
6.Community involvement: Being an Associate member of ICN allows you to get involved in your community and make a positive impact through service projects and volunteer work. You will also be enlisted as a Counselor in the Wellness Clinic page. Check here for more information: https://wellnessclinic.instituteofcounseling.org/
7. Brand recognition: Being a well-known and respected Organization in the field of counseling and psychotherapy, Associate membership in ICN adds credibility and value to your professional profile or business.
8. Token of Identity/ Certification: Membership registration comes with a membership ID, brooch and Certificate.
9.Post-Nominal Initials: As an Associate member, you can add the appellation ASSOCIATE MEMBER OF THE INSTITUTE OF COUNSELING IN NIGERIA “AICN” to your name, business cards, and resume to show your professional status in the field.
10.Overall, becoming an Associate member of ICN will provide valuable opportunities for professional growth, networking and community involvement and participation in various programs and events.
1. Associate Members who haven’t yet qualified as Professional Members must renew their membership annually to be able to continue to address themselves as Associate Member of The Institute, attend yearly conference, be part of the community, have access to resources and be able to qualify for the Professional membership exam.
2. The yearly Associate membership renewal fees is $30
3. To progress to the Professional Member, members must have pay all the annual membership fees for all the period of being an associate members and must have achieved the 50% events attendant criteria.
4. To progress to the Professional Member, student must have attended all the annual conference for all the period of being an Associate member.
Professional Membership
Professional membership is open to individuals who have carved a niche for themselves in their professional practice but do not meet the criteria for Fellow membership and will like to add the prestigious Professional membership of The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria to their CV. This individuals must have proven their professional capacity through their practice and must be willing to take their career to the next level. Some common eligibility criteria for Professional membership may include:
ICN TRAINING ROUTE
1. Must have completed studies and met all the criteria for certification. These include submission of all case studies and exercises, CFER, CSPR, two video assignments and any other requirement for certification. (Criteria for certification can be obtained at ICN).
2. Having a professional or personal interest in the Institute’s mission and activities and a willingness to support the Organisation’s goals and objectives.
3. Must be 20 years old and above.
4. Having Being able to provide proof of identity or professional credentials, if required.
5. Must show capacity to practice with integrity and be ethically guided following world best practices and professional counseling practice.
6. Must have attended at least four group/individual supervision sessions organised by ICN yearly and provide evidence of such.
7. Must have paid all the required fees including registration, tuition and graduation fees.
8. Must have been an Associate Member for a continuous period of at least two years.
9. Having obtained not less than a Diploma courses at the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria, and completed the CSPR and at least 100 hours CFER.
10. Must has paid the Professional membership registration fee $150.
11. Compulsory attendant of the yearly counselor and therapist conference as well as the payment of discounted conference fees.
12. Minimum of 50% attendant of ICN events, webinars, Roundtable, Instant courses etc.
13. Having completed the Professional membership application form and provided two reference.
14. Must have been in active ethically guided professional practice for at least three years and provide evidence of such.
EXTERNAL ROUTE
1. Being a graduate of counseling, psychology or related field from any reputable institution.
2. Graduate of any reputable institution with any other course and a diploma in Counseling or related filed from ICN partner institutions.
3. Being able to provide proof of graduation such as transcript or certificate
4. Must be 20 years old and above.
5. Having a professional or personal interest in the Institute’s mission and activities and a willingness to support the Organization’s goals and objectives.
6. Must have being in active professional practice for minimum of five years and should be able to provide evidence of case files to show for it.
7. Must have attended at least six group/individual supervision sessions yearly with minimum of three organised by ICN.
8. Compulsory attendant of the yearly counselor and therapist conference as well as the payment of conference fees.
9. Minimum of 50% attendant of ICN events, webinars, Roundtable, Instant courses etc.
10. Compulsory completion of two instant courses from ICN
11. Must be able to pass the PROFESSIONAL EXAMINATION set up by ICN examination and Licensing Board.
12.Must have paid the Professional membership registration fee of $200
13. Having completed the Professional membership application form and provided two reference.
14. Must have been an associate member from external route for a period of not less than three years.
Associate membership of The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria can provide several benefits, including:
1.Being enlisted in the membership portal of the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria.
2. Access to resources: Being an Associate member of ICN gives you access to resources, such as research materials, membership newsletter (World Changers), job postings, networking opportunities, seminars, conferences and scholarships that are only available to members.
3. Networking opportunities: Being an Associate member of ICN can provide valuable opportunities to connect with professionals and experts in your field of interest, which can lead to new job opportunities and collaborations.
4. Professional development: ICN offers training programs, workshops, and seminars to help members develop their skills and stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.
5. Advocacy and support: Being an Associate member of ICN provides you a voice in advocating for issues that are important to you or your profession.You may also receive support and guidance from the Organization on professional or personal issues.
6.Community involvement: Being an Associate member of ICN allows you to get involved in your community and make a positive impact through service projects and volunteer work. You will also be enlisted as a Counselor in the Wellness Clinic page. Check here for more information: https://wellnessclinic.instituteofcounseling.org/
7. Brand recognition: Being a well-known and respected Organization in the field of counseling and psychotherapy, Associate membership in ICN adds credibility and value to your professional profile or business.
8. Token of Identity/ Certification: Membership registration comes with a membership ID, brooch and Certificate.
9.Post-Nominal Initials: As an Associate member, you can add the appellation ASSOCIATE MEMBER OF THE INSTITUTE OF COUNSELING IN NIGERIA “AICN” to your name, business cards, and resume to show your professional status in the field.
10.Overall, becoming an Associate member of ICN will provide valuable opportunities for professional growth, networking and community involvement and participation in various programs and events.
1. Professional Members who haven’t yet qualified as Fellow Members must renew their membership annually to be able to continue to address themselves as Professional Member of The Institute, attend yearly conference, be part of the community, have access to resources and be able to qualify for the Professional membership exam.
2. The yearly Professional membership renewal fees is $50
3. To progress to the Fello Member, members must have pay all the annual membership fees for all the period of being an associate members and must have achieved the 50% events attendant criteria.
4. To progress to the Fellow Member, members must have attended all the annual conference for all the period of being a Professional member.
Fellow Membership
Becoming a Fellow of The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria is the highest level of professional membership available for counselors, therapists and psychotherapist. This opportunity comes with a lot of benefits and professional recognition. Being a Fellow is open to individuals who have met the criteria for Professional Membership for 7 consecutive years, having an interest in the Institute’s mission and activities. Some common eligibility criteria for Fellow may include:
1. Must have being in active continuous practice in the field of counseling or related field for not less than 10 years and be able to provide evidence of such.
2. Must have been an active Professional member for a continuous period of 5 years.
3. Must undergo the supervision training and pass the examination to become a professional supervisor.
3. Must be a registered member of one statutory Organization.
4. Must have a professional or personal interest in the Organization’s mission and activities.
5. Must be 25 years old and above.
6. Having a willingness to support the Organization’s goals and objectives.
7. Being able to provide proof of identity or professional credentials, if required.
8. Must be actively practicing and are guided by the ethical guidelines of professional counseling practice.
9. Must have a record of a minimum of two supervision sessions yearly with at least one of such from ICN and must provide evidence of such upon membership application request as a Fellow.
10. Must have an active counseling office or at least a working website.
11. Having paid the Fellow membership fee of $500.
12. Having provided two references for Fellow membership application.
HONORARY FELLOW
- Distinguished Contributions: A notable contribution to the field of counseling, mental health, or related disciplines, such as research, publications, or policy advocacy.
- Professional Experience: Extensive professional experience in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field, often spanning several years or decades.
- Leadership and Impact: Leadership roles within the counseling profession, such as serving as a director, board member, or mentor, with a demonstrated impact on the community or the profession.
- Nomination: Nomination by existing fellows or members, along with supporting documentation, such as a curriculum vitae and letters of recommendation.
- Affiliation with the Institute: Prior association with the institute, such as membership, significant collaboration, or contribution to its mission and programs.
- Peer Recognition: Recognition by peers, such as awards, honors, or invitations to speak at professional conferences.
- Ethical Standards: Demonstration of adherence to high ethical standards in professional practice and conduct.
Fellow membership of The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria can provide several benefits, including:
1. Access to resources: Being a Fellow of ICN gives you firsthand access to resources, such as research materials, membership newsletter, job postings, and networking opportunities, seminars, conferences and scholarships that are only available to members.
2. Networking opportunities: Being a Fellow of ICN can provide valuable opportunities to connect with professionals and experts in your field of interest, which can lead to new roles and collaborations.
3. Professional development: ICN offers training programs, workshops, and seminars to help members develop their skills and stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.
4. Opportunity to become a Faculty member: Being a member of the Faculty is an opportunity exclusively for one honored professional in a year which is attainable by being a Fellow member of the Institute.
5. Mentorship & Supervision: A fellow membership of the Institute also gives you the opportunity to mentor upcoming professionals in the field and be selected to supervise upcoming professional counselors.
6. Leadership opportunities: Joining ICN Fellow membership can give you the chance to take on leadership roles, such as serving at the board, or leading a committee, representing the Organization at press conferences which will be invaluable to your career.
7. Advocacy and support: Being a Fellow of ICN provides you a voice in advocating for issues that are important to you or your profession. You may also receive support and guidance from the organization on professional or personal issues.
8. Community involvement: Being a Fellow of ICN allows you to get involved in your community and make a positive impact through service projects and volunteer work.
9. Brand recognition: Being a well-known and respected Organization in the field of counseling and psychotherapy, Fellow membership in ICN adds credibility and value to your professional profile or business.
10. Post-Nominal Initials: As a Fellow, you can add appellations as FELLOW MEMBER OF THE INSTITUTE OF COUNSELING IN NIGERIA “FeICN” to your name, business cards, and resume to show your professional status in the field.
11. Overall, becoming a Fellow member of ICN will provide valuable opportunities for professional growth, networking and community involvement.
12. Partnership: Being a Fellow affords you the right to partner with the Institute of Counseling at your professional functions and events using the appellation on your banner and website.
- Fellows must renew their membership annually to be able to continue to address themselves as Professional Member of The Institute, attend yearly conference, be part of the community, have access to resources and be able to qualify for the Professional membership exam.
- The yearly Fellow membership renewal fees is $100
- Members must pay all the annual membership fees for all the period of being A Fellow and must have achieved the 50% events attendant criteria.
- Fellow Member is obligated to attend all the annual conference.
Faculty Membership
Faculty membership is open to individuals who have some common eligibility criteria for Faculty membership may include:
1. A minimum of a doctoral degree in any of the helping profession or related field.
2. A strong track record of conducting and publishing research in relevant mental health fields.
3. Demonstrated teaching excellence/ training capability in the relevant field is a must.
4. The ability to communicate complex information to students, faculty, and the public.
5. A track record of leadership in academic and professional settings.
6. Demonstrated creativity in developing and implementing new programs and initiatives.
7. A willingness to work collaboratively with the Institute and other faculty members to achieve the Institute’s goals.
8. A history of service to the profession, institution, and community.
9. A commitment to professional ethics, integrity, and the highest standards of conduct.
10. Having paid the yearly Faculty membership fee of one thousand dollars or five hundred thousand Naira ($1000/N500K) to ICN.
11. The ability to adapt to changing academic and organizational environments.
12. Having provided a written application and three references for Faculty membership.
Faculty membership of The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria can provide several benefits, including:
1. Exclusive opportunity: Being a Faculty member of ICN is an exclusive opportunity given to one professional throughout the academic year. This is an honor!
2. Access to resources: Being a Faculty member of ICN gives you access to the resources, such as research materials, membership newsletter, job postings, and networking opportunities, seminars, conferences and scholarships.
3. Networking opportunities: Being a Faculty member of ICN can provide valuable opportunities to connect with professionals and experts in your field of interest, which can lead to new roles and collaborations.
4. Professional development: ICN offers training programs, workshops, and seminars to help members develop their skills and stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.
5. Advocacy and support: Being a Faculty member of ICN provides you a voice in advocating for issues that are important to you or your profession. You may also receive support and guidance from the organization on professional or personal issues.
6. Community involvement: Being an Associate member of ICN allows you to get involved in your community and make a positive impact through service projects and volunteer work.
7. Brand recognition: Being a well-known and respected Organization in the field of counseling and psychotherapy, Faculty membership in ICN adds credibility and value to your professional profile or business.
8. Post-Nominal Initials: As a Faculty member, you can add appellations as “FaICN” to your name, business cards, and resume to show your professional status in the field.
9. Overall, becoming a Faculty member of ICN will provide valuable opportunities for professional growth, networking and community involvement.
10. Partnership: Being a Faculty member affords you the right to partner with the Institute of Counseling at your professional functions and events using the appellation on your banner and website.
NOTE: THERE SHALL BE ONLY ONE FACULTY MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITY YEARLY
1. There shall be opportunity for only one faculty member yearly.
2. There is a 25% for Retiree and Military personnel for Professional and fellow membership
ZONAL CORDINATIONS - ICCON ZOC
The Institute of Counseling in Nigeria Zonal Coordinator is a person who must have attained the position of a Fellow of The Institute and be appointed by the institute to oversee the affairs of the institute in their zones. ICCON-ZOC shall at all times operate within the framework of ICN which includes all ethical guidelines and core values as initiated and upheld by the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria
The purpose of the zone is to act as a support group for graduates of ICN to foster togetherness majorly forsocialnetworkingandbuildingasenseofcommunity.
Everyone at all level of ICN Membership shall have the privilege of becoming a member in their zones.
The Institute of Counseling shall be in charge of membership. The ICCON-ZOC shall maintain an up to date register of members at the beginning of each year, and shall run from 1st of January to 31st of December.
Interested individuals shall contact the membership office to get the approval for joining the zone.
The ICN Membership Office clears the student and forwards the contact to the Zonal Coordinator for the zone.
Coordinator adds individual to the appropriate zones
Please note that zoning is dependent on Alumni presence in states not necessarily according to the Nigerian system on zoning.
>> Eastern Region: Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Delta, Edo.
>> Southern Region: Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers and Abia.
>> Western Region: Ekiti, Kwara, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo States.
>> Northern Region: Yobe, Adamawa, Taraba, Bauchi, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Niger, Kebbi and Sokoto.
>> International Zone: All other Countries aside from Nigeria.
