Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Abstract

Continued or Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is recognised as an essential requirement for many professions, including teachers, health professionals (doctors, nurses, psychologists, psychotherapists and counsellors), social workers and managers. Professional organisations in different areas have established methods of monitoring and reviewing CPD of individuals and employers as a way of ensuring that professionals keep updating their knowledge and skills, in a visible and evidenced manner. This chapter will explore several dimensions related to CPD in the fields of Psychology, Psychotherapy and Counselling, including how to measure CPD and its outcomes, the current resources available in this field, the challenges and limitations and what is the likely future of CPD in these professions.