NBCC Continuing Education Provider Policynbcc.org/Assets/CeProvider/CE_ProviderPolicy.pdf1 NBCC...

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NBCC Continuing EducationProvider Policy

Board approved November 8, 2014

Effective date for single program providers: January 1, 2015

Effective date for NBCC Approved Continuing Education Providers: May 1, 2015

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Table of Contents

A. Introduction ………………………………………………………………...…… 1

B. NBCC Approval of Continuing Education Providers and Programs ...……….… 1

C. Continuing Education Provider Requirements …...….………………………….. 2

D. Qualifying Program Content Requirements ...………………………...………… 4

E. Qualifying Program Content Restrictions and Prohibitions ..……………..…..… 5

F. PresenterQualificationRequirements………………………………….……….. 5

G. NBCC Content Areas and Topics…..…..………………………………………... 6

H. Participant Program Evaluation Requirements ….………………………………. 10

I. Continuing Education Credit Requirements ………………......................……… 11

J. Approved Continuing Education Provider (ACEP) Program Requirements …... 13

K. Single Program Compliance and Approval Requirements .…………...….……... 19

L. ACEPComplianceDeficiencyProcedure.………………………….…...……... 20

Continuing education providers offering NBCC credit are solely responsible for demonstrating that the Provider and Providers’ programs are in compliance with this Policy. Providers failing to demonstrate compliance with this Policy may be sanctioned by NBCC, including the disqualification of noncompliant programs and/or Providers.

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A. INTRODUCTION

TheNationalBoardforCertifiedCounselors,Inc.andAffiliates(NBCC),anindependentnonprofitcredentialingbody for counselors, was incorporated in 1982 to establish and administer a national certification system, toidentifygraduate-levelcounselorswhohavevoluntarilymetcertificationstandards,andtomaintainaregistryofthose counselors. NBCC is the largest counselor credentialing body in the United States.

NBCC’sprimarycertificationistheNationalCertifiedCounselor(NCC),whichisaprerequisiteforallotherNBCCcertifications.InordertomaintainNBCCcertificationandrecertify,allNCCsmustearntheequivalentof100hoursofcontinuingeducationeveryfive(5)years.Thesecreditsmustbeobtainedfromqualifyingprofessionalactivitiesdesignedtoenhanceorincreasetheprofessionalknowledgeofgraduate-levelcounselors.

Manystatecounselorcredentialingboardsandagencieshavesimilarcontinuingeducationrequirements.LPCs,LMHCs,LCPCs,andotherstate-credentialedcounselorsseekcontinuingeducationprogramsthatofferNBCCcontinuing education credit. Therefore, NBCC continuing education approval is a valuable recognition andmarketing tool that assists continuing education Providers in attracting credentialed professional counselors to appropriate educational and training programs. NBCC requirements related to the approval of continuing education Providers and single programs offered by Providers are explained in this policy.

B. NBCC APPROVAL OF CONTINUING EDUCATION PROVIDERS AND PROGRAMS

In order to offer, advertise, andgrantNBCCcontinuing education credit (NBCCcredit orNBCChours), theProvidermusteither receiveApprovedContinuingEducationProvider (ACEP)status fromNBCC,or receiveapprovalfromNBCCtograntcreditforaspecificsingleprogram.AllApprovedContinuingEducationProvidersandsingleprogramProviders(continuingeducationProvidersorProviders)mustcomplywiththerequirementsexplained in this NBCC Continuing Education Provider Policy (Provider Policy or Policy). NBCC has the sole discretion todeterminewhether a continuingeducationProviderorprogram is incompliancewith thePolicyrequirements. Each Provider offering NBCC credit is solely responsible for submitting to NBCC all required information and documentation demonstrating that the Provider and the Provider’s programs are in compliance with the Policy. Providers failing to demonstrate compliancewith this Policymay be sanctioned byNBCC,includingthedisqualificationofnoncompliantprogramsand/orProviders.

1. Provider Types.NBCCacceptscontinuingeducationcreditsandhoursfromtwo(2)typesofProvidersfor

qualifying programs.

(a). Approved Continuing Education Providers (ACEPs). ACEPs are Providers that have satisfiedNBCCeligibilityrequirements,andhavebeengrantedACEPstatusconsistentwiththeProviderPolicyterms.SubjecttospecificprogramformatapprovalbyNBCC,anACEPmayofferNBCCcredit for: live, in-person and online programs; and, home study programs. Providers grantedNBCCACEPstatusareauthorizedtoofferNBCCcreditforeachprogram,course,orpresentation(program) that theACEP determinesmeets allNBCC requirements and otherwise qualifies forNBCCcredit,subjecttoNBCCverificationordisqualificationunderthePolicyterms.

(b). Single Program Providers. Single program Providers are Providers that offer single continuing educationprogramsthathavebeenspecificallyapprovedbyNBCCpriortotheprogram,consistentwith thisPolicyand thedirectivesofNBCC. SingleprogramProvidersmust satisfy allPolicy

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requirements, includingprogramcontentand instructor/presenter (presenter) rulesbeforeNBCCcredit is offered or awarded. Following approval, theProvidermayofferNBCCcredit for thespecificNBCCprogram.

2. ACEP Program Formats.ProgramsofferedbyACEPsforNBCCcreditmaybepresentedinthefollowingprogramformats,consistentwiththisPolicyandthedirectivesofNBCC:

(a). Live Event Delivery Format: real-time, interactive programs either delivered in person or byelectronicdevices thatpermit theparticipant tocommunicateand interactwith thepresenter(s),includingqualifiedprogramsdeliveredsolelyforin-servicetrainingdirectlyrelatedtoemployment.

(b). Home Study Delivery Format: text-based learning materials, on-demand webinars, and otheraudio/visualmaterialsthatincludeanassessmentdemonstratingthattheparticipantcompletedtheprogram.

3. Single Program Format.SingleprogramProvidersmayonlyofferliveeventprogramsforNBCCcredit,includingreal-timeinteractiveprograms,includingin-serviceprograms,presentedinpersonorbyelectronicdevicesthatpermittheparticipanttocommunicateandinteractwiththepresenter(s)consistentwiththisPolicy and the directives of NBCC.

4. NBCC Authority.NBCCretainstheexclusiveauthorityandfinaldiscretiontoapproveprograms,andtodeterminewhetheraprogramqualifiesforNBCCcredit.

C. CONTINUING EDUCATION PROVIDER REQUIREMENTS

InordertoqualifyandbeapprovedforApprovedContinuingEducationProvider(ACEP)status,ortooffersingleprogramsforNBCCcontinuingeducationcredit,theProvidermustsatisfythefollowingrequirements:

1. Policy Compliance Requirement. The continuing education Provider (Provider) must conduct all programs offeredforNBCCcredit (qualifyingprograms)consistentwith thisPolicyand the relateddirectivesofNBCC.

2. Provider Information and Materials Requirements. The Provider must submit to NBCC all required and requested information andmaterials in an accurate, complete, and timelymanner, consistentwith thisPolicy and as directed by NBCC.

3. Lawful and Ethical ProviderActivity Requirements. The Provider must conduct all educational and businessactivitiesinaresponsible,lawful,andethicalmanner,includingcompliancewithallapplicablelocal,state,andfederallegalrequirements,andNBCCpoliciesandagreements.

4. Provider Governance and Principles Requirements. The Provider’s organizational governance documents and operational principles must be consistent with NBCC policy and agreement requirements, andapplicable legal requirements.

5. AmericanswithDisabilitiesAct (ADA)Requirements. The Provider must conduct all programs in a mannerconsistentwiththerequirementsoftheAmericanswithDisabilitiesAct(ADA)andsimilarstate,federal,andlocallaws.TheProvidermustprovideappropriateaccommodationstoprogramparticipantswithlegally-recognizeddisabilities,includingphysical,visual,andauditorydisabilities.

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6. Prohibited Discrimination Requirements. The Provider must not discriminate against any individual or groupwithrespecttoanyservice,program,oractivityonthebasisofgender,race,creed,nationalorigin,sexualorientation,religion,age,organizationalmembership,oranyotherbasisprohibitedbylaw.

7. Prohibited Belief Acceptance Requirements. The Provider must not require program participants to accept oradheretoanyreligion,religiousprinciples,creed,orpoliticalprinciples.

8. Program Materials Quality Requirements. The Provider must ensure that all qualifying program materials areofprofessionalqualityincontentandappearance,includingallinformationalandadvertisingmaterials.

9. Program Materials Use Requirements. The Provider must ensure that all qualifying program materials donotinfringeupon,orotherwiseviolate,theintellectualpropertyorprivacyrightsofanyotherparty,including copyright, trademark, and license rights. The Provider must ensure that it either owns thematerialsusedwith respect toaqualifyingprogram,or ispermittedby law touse suchmaterialswithrespect to a program.

10. Program Records Requirements.Foraperiodofatleastfive(5)years,theProvidermustmaintaincompleteandaccuratecopiesofthefollowingrecordsforeachprogramofferingNBCCcredit:

(a). Arosteridentifyingallprogramparticipants;(b). Alistofall liveeventprogrampresenters, includingthequalificationsofeachpresenter,andan

accuratedescriptionofthecontentpresentedbythatpresenter;(c). A list of all authors andpresentersofhome studyprograms, andanaccuratedescriptionof the

contentpresentedbyeachauthorandpresenter;(d). Theprogramcontentdescription;(e). Theattendee/participantevaluations;(f). Theprogrampromotionalandmarketingmaterials;and,(g). Theprogramagendaandmaterialsdistributedtoparticipants,includingthelearningobjectives.

WhenrequiredbyNBCC,theProvidermustsubmitsuchprogramrecordsandmaterials toNBCCinacomplete,accurate,andtimelymanner.TheProvidermustmaintaincompleteandaccuratebackupcopiesof all required records in a secure manner.

11. ConfidentialityofInformationRequirements.TheProvidermustprotecttheconfidentialityofparticipantinformationrelatedtoqualifyingprograms,includingtheidentityofparticipants,andtheinformationandmaterials submitted to the Provider by the participants. The Provider should maintain a policy concerning theconfidentialityandsecurityofparticipantinformation.

12. Program Complaint and Policy Requirements.TheProvidermustmaintainawrittenandpublishedpolicyconcerningthereviewandresolutionofprogramparticipantcomplaintsanddisputesrelatedtoProviderprograms. TheProvidermustalsomaintainpoliciesconcerningprogramfees, refunds,andparticipantcancellation.

13. Complaint Reporting Requirements.TheProvidermustreporttoNBCCeachcomplaint,dispute,orothergrievance(complaintmatter)thatdirectlyorindirectlyrelatestoanytermsandrequirementsofthisPolicy,includingallcomplaintmattersreceivedfromaprogramparticipant,anotherorganization,oragovernmentagencyor authority. Suchcomplaintmattersmustbe reported toNBCCwithin sixty (60)daysof theProvider’sknowledgeofthecomplaint,includingallrelatedwrittencommunicationsandmaterials.

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14. Program Advertising Requirements. The Provider must comply with all NBCC policies related toadvertising,includingpoliciesconcerningadvertisementsinNBCCandthird-partypublicationsandWebsites. The Provider must make all program advertising and marketing materials available to the public withoutrestriction,unlesstheprogramisofferedonlyasanin-servicetraining.

15. Program Information Publication Requirements.Concerningeachqualifyingprogram,theProvidermustmake the following information available to the public in a complete and accuratemanner, unless theprogramisofferedonlyasin-servicetraining,inwhichcaseitshouldbeavailabletoparticipants:

(a). Programregistrationrequirements;(b). Programcontentdescriptionandlearningobjectives;(c). Thenameandqualificationsofeachprogrampresenterorauthor;(d). ThenumberofNBCChoursofferedforcompletionoftheprogram;and,(e). TheProvidercontact information, includingmailingaddress, telephonenumber,e-mailaddress,

and Web site address.

16. Program Information Access Requirements. Concerning each qualifying program, the Provider mustmakeallpublishedinformationavailabletoprogramparticipantsandNBCCwithoutrestriction,includingprogramdescriptions,presentationmaterials,nameandqualificationsofeachpresenterandauthor,andprogram agendas and schedules.

17. Failure to Satisfy Provider Requirements. In theevent thataProvider fails to satisfy,oractscontraryto,theProviderrequirementsofthisPolicy,NBCCreservestheexclusiverighttoimposeconditionsorsanctions,includingterminationofACEPorsingleprogramProviderstatus.

D. QUALIFYING PROGRAM CONTENT REQUIREMENTS

InordertoqualifyforNBCCcontinuingeducationcredit,theprogram,course,orpresentation(program)mustsatisfythefollowingcontentrequirements:

1. NBCC Content Area Requirement. The program content and information must directly relate to a qualifying NBCCContentAreaidentifiedinSectionGofthisPolicy.

2. Program Learning Objectives Requirement. The program content and information must include a clear statementoftheprogramlearningobjectivesshowingcompliancewiththequalifyingprogramrequirementsof this Policy.

3. ProfessionalKnowledgeRequirement. The program content and information must be directly relevant to theprofessionalknowledgeandskillsofgraduate-levelcounselors.

4. Clinically Sound Content Requirement. The content of programs presenting information concerning the diagnosis,evaluation,and/ortreatmentofclientsmustbeclinicallysound.Suchcontentmustbeconsistentwith well-established theories, principles, and techniques accepted by the professional mental healthcommunity,aswellasthecurrenteditionoftheDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).

5. Program Materials Requirement.Theprogrammaterialsmustbedirectlyrelevanttotheprogramcontent,andmustreflectcurrentinformation,research,andprofessionalknowledge.

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6. NBCC Ethical Standards Requirement.TheprogramcontentandinformationmustbeconsistentwiththeNBCC Code of Ethics and the NBCC Policy Regarding the Provision of Distance Professional Services.

7. QualifiedPresenter/AuthorRequirement.Theprogramcontentandinformationmustbepresentedand/orauthoredbyapresenter/authorwiththeappropriatequalifications,asrequiredbySectionFofthisPolicy.Allprogrampresentersandauthorsmustbespecificallyandaccuratelyidentifiedinprogrammaterials,includingalleducationaldegreesandotherqualificationsrelatedtotherequirementsofthisPolicy.

E. QUALIFYING PROGRAM CONTENT RESTRICTIONS AND PROHIBITIONS

InordertoqualifyforNBCCcontinuingeducationcredit,thequalifyingprogramcontentmustbeconsistentwiththefollowingrestrictionsandprohibitions:

1. Noncounseling Profession Content Restriction. The program content cannot be solely or primarily designed or intended for: professions other than professional counseling; the general public; paraprofessionalcounselors;or,anyotherindividualsengagedincounselingorothermentalhealthactivitieswhoarenotgraduate-level professional counselors.

2. Physical Health Content Restriction.Theprogramcontentcannotbesolelyorprimarilyconcernedwiththe medical or physical health of clients.

3. Political and Religious Content Restriction. The program content cannot state or imply in any manner thatindividualswhoactinconsistentwith,orwhodonotaccept,aparticularpoliticalorreligiousbelieforprinciplearedysfunctional,orotherwiseinappropriate,orthatthebeliefitselfisunacceptableorincorrect.

4. Sexual Orientation Change Content Restriction. The program content cannot present or include information promoting Sexual Orientation Change Efforts as a therapeutic method.

F. PRESENTER QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

InorderforaProvidertoofferandissueNBCCcontinuingeducationcredit,theprogrammustsatisfythefollowingrequirements: the subjectmattermust be directly and primarily related to anNBCCContentArea; and, thepresenteroftheprogram,orauthorpreparingthepublication,mustqualifyasapresenter/author(presenter)forthe subject matter presented.

Qualifyingprogramsmustbetaughtorauthoredbypresenterswhopossessappropriatequalifications,asrequiredby thisPolicy. Qualifiedpresentersandauthorsareclassifiedby three (3) specificcategories. The followingcategories identify therelevanteducationand/orexperiencerequirementsforapresenter toqualify topresent/author programs that are offered for NBCC continuing education credit.

1. Category1PresenterQualifications.

InordertoqualifyasaCategory1Presenter,theindividualmust:

(a). Holdagraduatedegreeinamentalhealthfieldfromaregionallyaccreditededucational institution;and,

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(b). Bequalifiedbyappropriateeducation,experience,and/ortrainingtopresent/authortheparticularsubjectmatter,orauthorthepublicationconcerningthesubjectmatter.



(a). Hold a graduate degree from a regionally accredited educational institution directly related to the subjectmatterpresented;and,

(b). Bequalifiedbyappropriateeducation,experience,and/ortrainingtopresent/authortheparticularsubjectmatter,orauthorthepublicationconcerningthesubjectmatter.



(a). Bequalifiedbyappropriateeducation,experience,and/ortrainingtopresent/authortheparticularsubjectmatter,orauthorthepublicationconcerningthesubjectmatter.

4. Additional Presenter Requirements and Restrictions.

(a). Each program presenter must qualify under this Policy to teach the particular subject matter presented by that individual.

(b). Honorary academic degrees must not be used to qualify a presenter to present or author programs offered for NBCC credit.

(c). Individualswho have received academic degrees outside theUnited Statesmay ormay not bequalifiedtopresentprogramsforNBCCcredit.Suchforeigndegreedindividualsmayberequiredto submit the results of an international degree equivalency evaluation. NBCCwill determinewhethertheindividualqualifiesasapresenterunderthisPolicy.

G. NBCC CONTENT AREAS AND TOPICS

InorderforaProvidertoofferandissueNBCCcredit,theprogramsubjectmattermustbedirectlyandprimarilyrelated toone (1)ormoreof theNBCCContentAreas identifiedbelow, andas requiredby thisPolicy. ThefollowingcategoriesidentifytheNBCCContentAreas.Therelevantcontentarea(s)mustbeidentifiableintheprogram objectives.

[NOTE:RegardlessoftheNBCCContentArea,aCategory1Presenterisrequiredtopresent/authortherelevantportions of all programs that include content concerning counseling theory, counseling practice, counselingrelationships,andtheevaluationand/ortreatmentofclients,aswellasallcontentspecificallydesignatedforaCategory 1 Presenter.]

1. CounselingTheory/PracticeandtheCounselingRelationship.

Continuing education programs in this content area provide an advanced understanding of the counseling

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processes,including,butnotlimitedto,thefollowingtopics.

Category1Presenterrequiredforthefollowingtopics:

► Foundational andwell-established counseling theories, principles, and techniques of counselingand their application in mental health settings.

► Diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. ► Wellnessandpreventionwithincounselingandtreatment.► Crisis intervention techniques for counselors to use in response to disaster or other rapid onset

trauma-causingevents,includingbutnotlimitedto,psychologicalfirstaidstrategies.► Psychophysiologicalawarenessandmindfulnessinthecounselingprocess.► Distance counseling. ► Biofeedback used in a mental health setting.

2. HumanGrowthandDevelopment.

Continuing education programs in this content area provide an advanced understanding of the nature and needsofindividualsatdevelopmentallevels,andarerelevanttoprofessionalcounselorsandthecounselingprofession. ACategory1Presenterisrequiredforallprogramcontentrelatedtothecounselingand/ortreatmentofclients.HumanGrowthandDevelopmenttopicsinclude,butarenotlimitedto,thefollowingtopics.

Category1or2Presenterrequiredforthefollowingtopics:

► Foundationalandwell-established theories, including,butnot limited to,personality theory, lifespantheory,learningtheory,andhumandevelopmenttheory.

Category1,2,or3Presenterrequiredforthefollowingtopics:

► End-of-lifeissueswithinthescopeofpracticeofmentalhealthprofessionals.► Information related to developmental crises; disabilities; and, situational, transitional, and

environmental factors that affect behavior.

3. Social and Cultural Foundations.

Continuing Education programs in this content area provide an understanding of the issues and trends in a multicultural and diverse society that impact professional counselors and the counseling profession. A Category1Presenterisrequiredforallprogramcontentandinformationrelatedtothecounselingand/ortreatmentofclients.SocialandCulturalFoundationstopicsinclude,butarenotlimitedto,thefollowingtopics.

Category1Presenterrequiredforthefollowingtopic:

► Multicultural competency as a professional counselor. Category1,2,or3Presenterrequiredforthefollowingtopics:

► Societal subgroups.► Societal changes and trends.

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► Mores and interaction patterns. ► Major societal concerns. ► Social justice.► Cross-culturaleffects,suchasacculturation,assimilationandmulticulturalandpluralistictrends.

4. Group Dynamics and Counseling.

Continuing education programs in this content area provide an advanced understanding of therapeutic group development,dynamicsandcounselingtheories;and,groupcounselingmethodsandskills,including,butnotlimitedto,thefollowingtopics.


► Group counseling theories and group counseling leadership styles. ► Developmental stages in group counseling and related principles of group dynamics. ► Group counseling methods and skills. ► Groupmembers’rolesandbehaviorswithinamentalhealthsetting.

5. Career Development and Counseling.

Continuingeducationprogramsinthiscontentareaprovideanadvancedunderstandingofcareercounseling,development and related life factors. A Category 1 Presenter is required for any program content related tothecounselingand/ortreatmentofclients.CareerDevelopmentandCounselingtopicsinclude,butarenotlimitedto,thefollowingtopics.


► Theories,principles,andtechniquesofcounselingasappliedtoworkandcareer.► Careercounselingprocessesandresources,including,butnotlimitedto,thoseapplicabletospecific

communities and populations. ► Career/lifeplanninganddecision-makingmodels.► Life-workroletransitions,including,butnotlimitedto,outplacementandretirementcounseling.


► Careerdevelopmentprogramplanning,resources,andprogramevaluation.► Assessmentofworkplaceenvironmentforpurposesofjobplacement.► Trends in job search. ► Career avocational, educational, occupational and labormarket information, and resources and

career information systems.

6. Assessment.

Continuing education programs in this content area provide an advanced understanding of approaches to assessment and evaluation in counseling practice. A Category 1 Presenter is required for all program contentrelatedtothecounselingand/ortreatmentofclients.Assessmenttopicsinclude,butarenotlimitedto,thefollowingtopics.


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► Diagnosticinterviewing.► Clinical assessment and interpretation for use in treatment planning. ► Ethical strategies for selecting, administering, and interpreting assessment and evaluation

instruments.


► Information on the current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).

► Implementation and interpretation of standardized assessment instrument protocols. ► Newandexistingassessments.► Issues related to assessment development. ► Legal issues related to counselor authority to administer and interpret tests and inventories that

assesspsychopathology,abilities,interests,andcareeroptions.► Information on basic classification, indication and contraindications of commonly prescribed

psychopharmacological medications, in order to make appropriate referrals for medicationevaluations,andtoidentifythesideeffectsofmedication.

7. Research and Program Evaluation.

Continuingeducationprogramsinthiscontentareaprovideanadvancedunderstandingofresearchmethods,statisticalanalysis,needsassessmentandevaluation,andethicalandlegalconsiderationsinresearch.ACategory 1 Presenter is required for all program content related to the counseling and/or treatment ofclients.ResearchandProgramEvaluationtopicsinclude,butarenotlimitedto,thefollowingtopics.


► Criticalevaluationofresearchfindingsanditsclinicalimplications.► Development of measurable outcomes for counseling interventions.


► Foundationalandwell-establishedresearchdesignandmethods.► Statistics in research. ► Researchreportdevelopmentandinformationondisseminatingresearchfindings.► Criticalevaluationofresearchfindings.

8. Counselor Professional Identity and Practice Issues.

Continuing education programs in this content area provide an understanding of various aspects of professional functioning as graduate-level counselors. A Category 1 Presenter is required for all program contentrelatedtothecounselingand/ortreatmentofclients.CounselorProfessionalIdentityandPracticeIssuestopicsinclude,butarenotlimitedto,thefollowingtopics.


► NBCCand/orACAethicalcodesandconductstandardsinprofessionalcounselingand/orcounselingresearch.

► Ethical decision-making models directly related to counseling practice.

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► NBCCcertification,statelicensure,andrelatedmentalhealthpublicpolicy.► Professionalcounselingorganizationsandassociations,limitedtoNBCC,CACREP,ACAandits

branches and divisions. ► Roles and processes related to counselor advocacy on behalf of the profession and the client.► The counselor’s role and function as a member of an interdisciplinary team.► Startingandmaintainingacounselingpracticetoincludebusiness-planning,qualitycontrol,service

delivery,billingandreimbursement,fee-setting,capacity-building,referrals,andethicalmarketing.► Effective and ethical utilization of social media. ► Counselorself-assessmenttoaddressareasforongoingprofessionalgrowth.► Critical analysis of emerging issues in the counseling profession. ► Clinicalsupervisionmodels,practices,andprocessesforprofessionalcounselors.► The counselor’s role and function as a professional consultant. ► Thecounselor’sroleandfunctionasaforensicinterviewer.

Category1or2Presenterrequiredforthefollowingtopic:

► Legalissuesinprofessionalcounselingand/orcounselingresearch.


► Self-care strategies and burnout prevention appropriate to the counselor role.► Grantwritingforcounselorsandcounselingprograms.

9. Wellness and Prevention.

Continuing education programs in this content area provide psycho-educational information for counselors toenhancetheirabilitytopromoteoptimalwellnessrelatedtoclientmentalhealth.ACategory1presenteris required for allprogramcontent related to thecounselingand/or treatmentofclients. WellnessandPreventiontopicsinclude,butarenotlimitedto,thefollowingtopics.


► Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM). ► Community-basedwellnessinitiatives.► Conflictresolution.► Sex education. ► Sleep hygiene. ► Nutrition.► Anger management.

H. PARTICIPANT PROGRAM EVALUATION REQUIREMENTS

1. Evaluation Content Requirements.

The Provider must make available to each qualifying program participant a print or electronic evaluation document,whichincludesaratingscale.Thisdocumentmustidentifythetitleanddateoftheprogram,andmustpermittheindividualtoindicatesatisfactionordissatisfactionwiththefollowing:

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(a). Thecontentoftheprogram;(b). Theknowledgeandpresentationskillsofeachprogrampresenter;(c). Thefacilityandaccommodations,ifaliveprogram;(d). Thecontentandqualityoftheprogrammaterials;and,(e). The relevance of the program to professional counselors.

Inaddition,thisdocumentmustallowtheparticipanttosubmitwrittencommentsconcerningtheprogramandindicatewhethertheprogrammethis/herexpectations.TheProvidermustcollectandmaintaintheevaluationsforatleastfive(5)yearsfromthedateofeachprogram.TheProviderisrequiredtoreporttoNBCCwhetherprogramminghasbeenmodifiedbasedonparticipantevaluations.SuchreportswillbeincludedwiththeProvider’sauditforms.

2. Evaluation Summary Requirements.

Aspartoftheauditprocess,theProvidermustsubmittoNBCCasummaryofallparticipantevaluationsreceivedforaspecifictimeperiodwithrespecttoidentifiedprograms.Suchevaluationsummariesmustprovidethefollowinginformationwithrespecttoeachprogram:

(a). Titleanddate(s)oftheprogram;(b). Numberofprogramparticipants;(c). AllcommentsreceivedfromparticipantsforeachitemofinformationrequiredbySectionH.1;and,(d). The composite evaluation rating scores for each item of information required by Section H.1.

TheProvidermustnotsubmitindividualparticipantevaluationstoNBCC,unlessrequestedbyNBCC.

I. CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT REQUIREMENTS

1. LiveProgramCreditMeasurementRequirements/PermittedCEDescriptiveTerms.

Withrespecttoeachlive,real-timeprogramallowingforparticipantinteraction,theProviderwilldeterminetheactualpresentationtimerelatedto,andofferedfor,theprogram.Thistimeperiodwillbemeasuredbytheactualamountoftimethatqualifyingcontentispresented,andwillbereferredtoasNBCChours.TheProvidermustcalculateandissueNBCCcredittoparticipantsinNBCChours,usingone-quarter(.25)hourincrements. Providers may round up to the nearest quarter hour increment. For the purpose of measuring NBCCcredit,one(1)NBCChourisequivalenttosixty(60)minutesofactual,qualifyingprogramtime.

Each program announcement and advertisement must include a clear statement of the NBCC credit

to be awarded in hours. Only the following credit measurements are permitted: NBCC hours; clock hours; credit hours; CE hours; or, contact hours. The descriptive term CEU cannot be used.

2. LiveProgramAttendanceVerification/NBCCAuthority.

InordertoawardNBCCcredit,theProvidermustensurethattheparticipantattendedtheliveprogram,andwaspresentforthenumberofNBCChoursindicatedonthecertificateorletterofcompletion,asrequiredbySectionI.3.Theattendanceofparticipantsatliveprogramsmustbeverifiedbyanaccurate,verifiablemethod.

NBCC reserves the exclusive authority and discretion to: determine if NBCC credits have been measured accurately;and,todeny,reduce,increase,orotherwisealterthenumberofcreditsassociatedwithaProvider

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program.

3. Live Program Document of Completion Requirements.

TheProvidermustprepareandissueadocumentofcompletion(certificateorletter)toeachparticipantcompletingaqualifyinglive,real-timeprogramofferedforNBCCcredit.Suchcertificateorlettermustincludethefollowinginformation:

(a). ThenameandcontactinformationoftheProvider;(b). Thetitleanddateoftheliveprogram;(c). ThenameoftheparticipanttowhomtheNBCChoursareawarded;(d). ThenumberofNBCChoursawardedtothenamedparticipant;(e). ThenameandsignatureofanauthorizedrepresentativeoftheProvider;and(f). The NBCC ACEP or NBCC Single Program Provider number.

Acertificateor letterverifyingprogramcompletionmustbemadeavailableby theProvider toeligibleparticipantsinatimelymanneraftertheconclusionoftheprogram.Suchcertificatesorlettersmustnotbemade available prior to the end of the qualifying program.

4. ACEPHomeStudyProgramCreditMeasurementandVerificationRequirements.

Withrespect toeachqualifyinghomestudyprogram, theACEPwilldetermine theaccuratenumberofNBCCcreditsrelatedto,andofferedfor,theprogramasfollows.

(a). TextHomeStudyProgramCreditMeasurementRequirements. Withrespecttoqualifying,text-basedhomestudyprograms,one(1)NBCChourwillbeofferedforeach6,000wordsofhomestudyprogramtext.Textoflessthan6,000wordswillbemeasuredonaproportionatebasis;e.g.,3,000wordsoftextwillbemeasuredasone-half(.5)hour.ACEPsmustissueNBCCcredittotexthomestudyprogramparticipantsinNBCChours,basedonone-quarter(.25)hourincrementsforaminimumof1,500wordsoftext.LesseramountsoftextdonotqualifyforNBCCcredit.

(b). Audio and Visual Home Study Program Credit Measurement Requirements. With respect to qualifyingaudioandvisualhomestudyprograms,one (1)NBCChourwillbeoffered foreachsixty(60)minutes,oflisteningand/orviewingtime.Audioandvisualhomestudyprogramswillbemeasuredbytheactualamountoftimethattheparticipantwilllistentoand/orviewtheprogram.ACEPsmustissueNBCCcredittoaudioandvisualHomestudyparticipantsinNBCChours,basedonone-quarter(.25)hourincrementsforaminimumoffifteen(15)minutesoflisteningandviewingtime.LesseramountsoflisteningandviewingtimedonotqualifyforNBCCcredit.

(c). HomeStudyProgramCreditVerificationRequirements/PermittedCEDescriptiveTerms.InordertoawardNBCCcredit,theACEPmustensurethattheparticipantcompletedtheHomestudyprogram.The completionof ahome studyprogrammustbeverifiedby the completionof an assessmentdemonstrating that the participant completed the program.

Thefollowingcreditmeasurementsarepermitted:NBCChours;clockhours;credithours;CEhours;or,contact hours. The descriptive term CEU cannot be used. NBCC reserves the exclusive authority and discretionto:determineifNBCCcreditshavebeenmeasuredaccurately;and,todeny,reduce,increase,orotherwisealterthenumberofcreditsassociatedwithahomestudyprogram.

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5. ACEP Home Study Document of Completion Requirements.

TheACEPmust prepare and issue a document of completion (certificate or letter) to each participantcompletingaqualifyinghome studyprogramoffered forNBCCcredit. Suchcertificateor lettermustincludethefollowinginformation:

(a). ThenameandcontactinformationoftheACEP;(b). Thetitleanddateofcompletionofthehomestudyprogram;(c). ThenameoftheparticipanttowhomtheNBCChoursareawarded;(d). ThenumberofNBCChoursawardedtothenamedparticipant;(e). ThenameandsignatureofanauthorizedrepresentativeoftheACEP;and,(f). The NBCC ACEP number of the Provider.

AcertificateorletterverifyingcompletionwillbemadeavailabletotheparticipantbytheACEPwhenthehomestudyprogramiscompleted.Suchcertificatesorlettersmustnotbemadeavailablepriortothecompletion of the qualifying program.

J. APPROVED CONTINUING EDUCATION PROVIDER (ACEP) PROGRAM

REQUIREMENTS

1. ACEPStatus,Purposes,andAuthorities.

ACEPstatusisgrantedbyNBCCtoeligibleProvidersdemonstratingcompliancewithallACEPProviderand program requirements, including all applicable terms of this Policy. The primary purpose of theACEP program is to conditionally permit eligible Providers to offer and grant NBCC credits to participants completingqualifiedprograms,subjecttothePolicyterms.NBCCretainsthesoleauthoritytodetermineifaProviderqualifiesforACEPstatus,andsolediscretion togrant, terminate,ormodifyACEPstatus.Inaddition,NBCCretains theexclusiveandfinal authority toapproveor reject anACEPprogram forcontinuing education credit.

OncegrantedACEPstatus,theapprovedProviderisauthorizedtoofferNBCCcreditsforeachprogramthattheACEPdeterminessatisfiesallPolicyrequirements,subjecttopriororsubsequentNBCCapprovalor rejection.

2. ACEP Status Eligibility Requirements.

Inorder toqualifyforACEPstatus,anapplicantProvidermustsatisfyallNBCCACEPeligibilityandapplicationrequirements,includingthefollowing:

(a). Theapplicantcurrentlydevelopsandpresentscontinuingeducationprogramsthatwouldqualifyfor credit under this Policy.

(b). Theapplicantmustsufficientlydemonstratethattheorganization/individualoffersandpresentsatleasttwo(2),different,liveprogramsorone(1)homestudyprogramthatwouldqualifyforNBCCcredit under this Policy.

(c). The applicant must designate an authorized representative to serve as the Provider’s ACEP administrator. Among other responsibilities, theACEP administratorwill serve as the primary

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contactpersonwithNBCCconcerningallACEPprogramapplication, administration, approval,and maintenance matters.

(d). TheapplicantmustdesignateaqualifiedrepresentativetoserveastheProvider’sprogramcontentadministrator (program administrator). The program administrator must hold an advanced degree inamentalhealthfieldfromanaccreditededucationalinstitution.TheprogramadministratorwillberesponsibleforassuringthatthecontentofallProviderprograms,andthequalificationsofallprogrampresenters,satisfy,andareconsistentwith,therequirementsofthisPolicy.Theprogramadministrator also may serve as the ACEP administrator.

(e). The applicantmust submit a complete and accurateACEP application to NBCC, including allrequired information, materials, agreements, related Web site domain names, usernames andpasswords,ifapplicable,andallrequiredfees.AllACEPapplicationmaterialsbecomethepropertyofNBCC,andallapplicationrelatedfeespaidtoNBCCarenotrefundable.

(f). The applicant must not display any statement, or make any representation, concerning NBCCapproval,NBCCProviderstatus,pendingNBCCapproval,orNBCCapprovalorendorsementofanyprogramsororganizationspriortowrittennotificationofapprovalfromNBCC.

3. ACEP Information Reporting Requirements.

(a). ACEPInformationChangeReportingRequirement.OncegrantedACEPstatus,theProvidermustpromptlynotifyNBCCinwritingofanychangeormodificationwithrespect totheinformationprovided to NBCC concerning ACEP status and the requirements of this Policy. This requirement includes, but is not limited to, prompt, written notification of any change or modificationconcerning: theACEP’s contact information, name, or business form, e.g., corporation, LLC,orsoleproprietorship;abankruptcy,merger,oracquisitionrelated to theACEP;and, theACEPrepresentative(s) designated as theACEPadministrator or programadministrator. SuchwrittennoticemustbeprovidedtoNBCCwithinthirty(30)daysofthechangeormodification.

(b). ACEP Legal Matters Reporting Requirements. The ACEP must report to NBCC its involvement inanycriminalinvestigationorcase,anycivilcourtmatter,and/oranygovernmentagencymatter.Such involvementmustbe reported toNBCCwithin thirty (30)daysof thedate that theACEPknew,orshouldhaveknown,aboutthecriminal,civil,orgovernmentagencymatter.

4. ACEP Status Approval Statements Requirements.

(a). Required ACEP Status Approval Statement. With respect to all programs offered for NBCC credit,theACEPmustprominentlydisplaythefollowingNBCCApprovalStatementonallrelatedmaterials,includingprintandelectronicadvertising,promotional,andinformationalmaterials,andthe ACEP Web site(s) related to such programs.

[ACEPNAME] has been approved byNBCC as anApprovedContinuing Education Provider,ACEPNo.____. Programs thatdonotqualify forNBCCcredit are clearly identified. [ACEPNAME] is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

However,upontherequestofanACEP,NBCCmaywaivetheapprovalstatementrequirementwherethesizeofspecificprogram-relatedmaterialsistoosmalltoincludetherequiredACEPApprovalStatement.TheNBCCACEPNumberoftheProvidermustalwaysappearonsuchmaterials.

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(b). RestrictionsConcerningStatementsRelatedtoNBCC.UnlessexpresslyauthorizedbyNBCC,theACEPmustnotdisplayanyotherstatement,ormakeanyotherrepresentation,concerningNBCC,NBCCACEPstatus,orNBCCapprovalorendorsementofanyprogramsororganizations. TheACEPmustnotmakeanyrepresentationthatNBCCendorsesorsupportsanyspecificcontinuingeducationprogramcounselingtheoryormethod,orotherprogramcontent.

5. ACEP Trademark (Logo) Use Requirements.

With respect toallprogramsoffered forNBCCcredit, theACEPmustprominentlydisplay thecurrentNBCCACEPtrademark(logo)onprintandelectronicprogramadvertising,promotional,andinformationmaterials,andthemainpageoftheACEPWebsite(s)relatedtosuchprograms.However,upontherequestofanACEP,NBCCmaywaivethetrademarkuserequirementwherethesizeofspecificprogram-relatedmaterials is too small to include the mark.

6. ACEP Home Study Program Requirements.

The ACEP is authorized to grant NBCC continuing education credit for qualifying programs that are completedbytheparticipantatthetimeandplaceofhisorherchoosing,i.e.,homestudyprograms.InadditiontoallotherapplicablerequirementsinthisPolicy,anACEPhomestudyprogrammustsatisfytherequirementsidentifiedinthisSectioninordertoqualifyforNBCCcredit.

(a). ACEPHomeStudyProgramMaterialsRequirements. Inorder toqualify forNBCCcredit, thehomestudyprogrammustcontainthefollowingmaterialsandinformation:

(1). Learningmaterials,suchastext-based,audio/visual,orWeb–basedmaterials.

(2). Information accurately identifying all individual and organizational program authors andpresenters, including thecredentials andqualificationsof eachauthorandpresenter,consistentwiththerequirementsofPolicySectionF.

(3).Anassessmentinstrumentpreparedbyaprofessionalwithanadvanceddegreeinamentalhealthfieldintendedtoevaluatetheparticipant’sknowledgeoftheprogrammaterial,suchas a test or quiz.

(4). Instructions clearly explaining the process for obtaining NBCC credit from the Provider upon completion of the program.

(5).Areferencelistaccuratelyidentifyingallsourcematerialsusedtopreparetheprogram,suchas professional journal articles or books.

(6). An evaluation document for the participant to rate and indicate satisfaction or dissatisfaction withtheprogram,consistenttherequirementsofPolicySectionH.

(b). ACEP Home Study Program Quality and Functionality Requirements. In order to qualify for NBCCcredit,allACEPhomestudyprogrammaterialsmustbeofprofessionalqualityincontentandappearance,includingallaudio/videomaterials,andprintmaterials.Allhomestudyprogrammaterials must be fully functional and accessible to all program participants and NBCC. The ACEP must ensure that all program materials do not violate or infringe upon any privacy or intellectual rightofanyotherparty,includingcopyright,trademark,orlicenserights.

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(c). ACEP Home Study Program Completion and Payment Requirements. In order to qualify for NBCC credit,documentsofcompletionmustbemadeavailablebytheACEPtoeligibleparticipantsinatimelymanner followingcompletionof theprogram. ACEPsacceptingelectronicpayments forHome study programs must utilize secure encryption programs for all such payments.

7. ACEP Program Cosponsorship Requirements.

(a). ACEP Program Cosponsorship Responsibility. Cosponsorship of a qualifying program by an ACEP and another organizationor individual is permittedon a one-time, preapprovedbasis onlywithrespecttoaspecific,liveeventdeliveryprogram.TheACEPissolelyresponsibleforsatisfyingall NBCC Policy and agreement requirements related to each qualifying program offered by the ACEP for NBCC continuing education credits (credits). This responsibility is not affected by any cosponsorshipor joint venture (cosponsorship) relationshipbetween theACEPand anotherorganization or individual (cosponsor).

(b). ACEP Program Cosponsorship Approval Requirements. All proposed cosponsorship relationships mustbereviewedandapprovedbyNBCCprior to thepresentationofaqualifyingcosponsoredprogram. Amongother requirements, theACEPmustensurecomplianceby theACEPandanycosponsorwithalltermsofthisPolicyandrelatedagreementspriortothepresentationofaprogramforNBCCcontinuingeducationcredit.Iftwo(2)ormoreACEPscosponsoraqualifyingprogram,each ACEP is responsible for such Policy and agreement compliance.

(c). ACEP Program Cosponsorship Application and Approval Requirements. The ACEP must apply for NBCC approval of each proposed cosponsorship relationship related to each qualifying program offered for NBCC credit. The cosponsorship application must be received by NBCC at least ninety (90)dayspriortothepresentationoftheproposedprogram.Amongotherapplicationinformation,theACEPmustprovidethefollowingconcerningeachproposedcosponsorshiprelationship:

(1). Thetitleanddescriptionofthequalifyingprogram,andthescheduledoranticipateddate(s)thattheliveeventprogramwillbepresented;

(2). Thename(s), address(es), telephonenumber(s), ande-mailaddress(es)ofeachproposedcosponsoringorganizationand/orindividual.Suchcontactinformationmustbeprovidedfortheauthorizedrepresentativeoftheproposedcosponsor,whoisdesignatedtocommunicateandcooperatewithNBCCconcerningthequalifyingprogram;

(3).Anaccurateandcompletedescriptionoftheproposedcosponsorshiprelationship,including,butnot limited to: the roles and responsibilitiesof theACEPand the cosponsor(s); theidentityofthepersonsandorganizationsinvolvedindeveloping,planning,andimplementingthe program; and,whether theACEPand/or cosponsor has orwill receive anyfinancialbenefit(s)relatedtotheprogram;

(4). ConfirmationthatthecosponsorhasnotbeenterminatedorotherwisesanctionedbyNBCCas an ACEP or as a Provider of single continuing education programs. Such Providers are notpermittedtoactascosponsorswithrespecttoanyprogramofferedforNBCCcontinuingeducationcredit;and,

(5). All other information and agreements required by NBCC related to the proposed cosponsorship relationship and the proposed program.

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Following receipt of a complete application for cosponsorship approval, NBCC willdetermine if the cosponsor relationship concerning the identified qualifying program isapproved, denied, or subject to specific conditions. TheACEPwill be advised of suchdecision.NBCCretainsthesoleauthoritytoapproveorrejectacosponsorshiprequest,andto impose conditions on a cosponsorship relationship.

(d). CosponsorshipApplication Fee Requirements. In order to apply for cosponsorship approval,theACEPmustsubmit toNBCCthenonrefundablecosponsorshipapplicationfee,andanypastoutstandingfees,withtheNBCCcosponsorshipapplication.Iftherequiredfeeisnotsubmittedwiththeapplication,thecosponsorshipapplicationwillnotbereviewedorapproved.

(e). Approved Cosponsorship Announcement Requirements. Once NBCC approves the cosponsorship relationshipconcerningaqualifyingprogram,theACEPandthecosponsor(s)mayannounceandadvertisetheprogramforNBCCcredit,solongasthefollowingrequirementsaresatisfied:

(1). All informational and advertising materials concerning the program must prominently state thattheprogramiscosponsoredbytheACEPandthecosponsor(s);

(2).Materialsconcerningtheprogrammustnotstatethattheprogramis“approved,”orotherwiseendorsedbyNBCC;

(3).AllinformationandadvertisingmaterialsconcerningtheprogrammustincludethefollowingCosponsorship Approval Statement:

[ACEP NAME] and [COSPONSOR NAME] are cosponsors of this program. This cosponsorship has been approved by NBCC. [ACEP NAME] is an NBCC Approved ContinuingEducationProvider,ACEPNo.____.TheACEPsolelyisresponsibleforthisprogram,includingtheawardingofNBCCcredit.

(4).AllotherrequirementsofthisPolicy,relatedNBCCagreements,andconditionsaresatisfied.

(f). Program Document of Completion Cosponsorship Information Requirements. The ACEP must prepareandissueadocumentofcompletion(certificateorletter)toeachparticipantcompletingacosponsored,qualifyingprogramofferedforNBCCcredit.Suchcertificateorlettermustincludethefollowinginformation:

(1). ThenameandcontactinformationoftheACEP;(2). Thetitleanddateofcompletionoftheprogram;(3). ThenameoftheparticipanttowhomtheNBCChoursareawarded;(4). ThenumberofNBCChoursawardedtothenamedparticipant;(5). ThenamesandsignaturesofauthorizedrepresentativesoftheACEPandthecosponsor;(6). TheNBCCACEPnumberoftheApprovedContinuingEducationProvider;and,(7). The Cosponsorship Approval Statement required by Policy Section J.7(e)(3).

AcertificateorletterverifyingcompletionwillbemadeavailabletotheparticipantbytheACEPwhentheprogramiscompleted.Suchcertificatesorlettersmustnotbemadeavailablepriortothecompletion of the qualifying program.

(g). Approved Cosponsorship Limitation. NBCC approval of a cosponsorship relationship only relates

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to thespecificqualifyingprogramidentified in theapplicationonaone-timepresentationbasis.Additionalpresentationsoftheprogrammustbepre-approvedbyNBCCconsistentwiththisPolicysection.NootherNBCCapprovalisissuedconcerningthecosponsororcosponsorprograms,andthecosponsormustnotstatethatitisotherwiseapprovedbyNBCC.

8. ACEPStatusMaintenanceRequirements/TerminationofACEPStatus.

(a). GeneralACEPMaintenanceRequirements.InordertomaintainACEPstatus,theProvidermustsatisfyallapplicablerequirementsofthisPolicyandotherNBCCpolicies,thetermsoftherelatedNBCCagreements,andallNBCCinstructionsconcerningACEPactivities.

(b). ACEPAnnualMaintenanceFeeRequirements. Inorder tomaintainACEP status, theProvidermust submit to NBCC the ACEP Annual Maintenance fee(s) and past outstanding fees on or before theduedateidentifiedontheNBCCACEPAnnualFeeInvoice.Newpaymentswillbeappliedto outstanding charges before being credited for current fees. In the event that a Provider fails to paytheACEPAnnualMaintenancefeewithinthirty(30)daysoftheidentifiedduedate,alatefeewillbeappliedanddue.IfaProviderfailstopayalloutstandingfeesandlatefeesbytheduedateidentifiedinasubsequentinvoiceornotice,theProvider’sACEPstatuswillbeterminated.

(c). ACEP Third-Year Audit Requirements. Every three (3) years from the anniversary date as indicated on theACEPApprovalLetter,or asotherwisedeterminedbyNBCC, theACEPwill receiveanAuditNotificationrequiringtheACEPtocompleteandsubmittoNBCC:completeandaccurateauditforms,includingallrequiredandsupportingmaterials;theAnnualMaintenancefee,andallotheroutstandingfees.TheACEPauditmaterials,relatedformsandalloutstandingfeesmustbesubmittedtoNBCCbytheapplicabledeadlineidentifiedontheAuditNotificationandinvoice.InordertoremainingoodstandingwithNBCCasanACEP,allrequiredauditforms,materialsandfees must be submitted by the due date.

In the event that a Provider fails to submit complete audit forms and audit materials including all outstandingfees,bytheduedateidentifiedinasubsequentinvoiceornotice,theProvider’sACEPstatuswillbeterminated.

(d). ACEPThird-YearAuditProcess. Following the receiptofcompletedaudit formsandmaterialsincludingalloutstandingfees,NBCCwillreviewtheinformationandmaterialssubmittedbytheACEP,andallrelevantinformation.NBCCreservesthesoleauthorityanddiscretiontoauditallACEPactivitiesandmaterialsatanytime,andtoissuerequirements,correctionletters,deficiencynotices,andterminationnoticesconsistentwiththisPolicyandNBCCagreementsordirectives.

(e). ACEPStatusTermination.NBCCmayterminatetheACEPstatusofanyProviderwithoutlimitationandconsistentwithNBCCpolicies,agreements,anddirectives.NBCCwillnotifytheProviderinwritingthatACEPstatushasbeenterminated.Withinten(10)daysofthedateofsuchterminationletter,theProviderwillbeprohibitedfromofferingorgrantingNBCCcredit,andwillprominentlyand immediately publish a statement on its Web site stating that it is no longer an NBCC Approved ContinuingEducationProvider.NBCCwillpublishastatementnotifyingthepublicoftheACEP’stermination on the NBCC Web site and in The National Certified Counselornewsletter.

(f). Application After Termination. In the event that a former ACEP applies for ACEP status or single programapprovalaftertermination,allpast-duefeesfrompreviousaccountsmustbesatisfiedpriorto consideration of the application.

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K. SINGLE PROGRAM COMPLIANCE AND APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

1. QualifyingSingleProgramReviewandApprovalRequirements.

Providers seeking to offer single programs for NBCC continuing education credit (NBCC credit or NBCC hours)mustsatisfyallapplicablerequirementsofthisPolicy,includingallapplicationrequirementsandPolicytermsrelatedtoprogramcontent, instructors/presenters,andProvideractivities. Singleprogramapproval is limited to live, real-timepresentations. All participantsmust be able to communicate andinteractwiththepresenter(s)duringtheentiretyoftheprogram.

(a). UnlikequalifyingprogramsofferedbyACEPs,eachsingleprogrammustbereviewedandapprovedbyNBCCpriortobeingofferedforNBCCcontinuingeducationcredit.IfapprovedbyNBCC,theprogrammaybeofferedforNBCCcreditforthedurationofone(1)yearfollowingtheapprovaldate,conditioneduponnomaterialchangetotheprogramandcompliancewithallPolicyrequirements.

(b). Followingtheexpirationorterminationofasingleprogramapproval,aProvidermayreapplyforapproval. Inordertomaintainuninterruptedapproval, theProvidermustsubmit theapplicationat leastsixty(60)daysprior to theprogramapprovalexpirationdate, includingall requiredandsupportingmaterials,andallfeesandcostsrelatedtothesingleprogramapplication.

(c). NBCCretainsthesoleauthorityanddiscretiontoapprove,reject,orconditionansingleprogramfor continuing education credit.

2. Single Program Eligibility Requirements.

Inordertoqualifyforsingleprogramapproval,anapplicantProvidermustsatisfythefollowingprogrameligibility requirements:

(a). TheapplicantsatisfiesallPolicyrequirements,agreements,andinstructionsconcerningProviders.

(b). Thecontentandqualityoftheprogramsatisfy,andareconsistentwith,allNBCCPolicyrequirements,agreements,andinstructions.

(c). The program presenters satisfy all Policy requirements, agreements, and instructions, includingrulesconcerningpresenterqualifications,knowledge,andperformance.

(d). The applicant has designated an authorized representative to communicate and cooperate withNBCC concerning all matters related to the requested single program approval.

(e). TheapplicanthassubmittedacompleteandaccuratesingleprogramapplicationtoNBCC,includingallrequiredinformation,materials,agreements,andfees.AllsuchapplicationmaterialsbecomethepropertyofNBCC,andallapplication-relatedfeespaidtoNBCCarenotrefundable.

3. Single Program Approval Statement Requirements.

WithrespecttoeachapprovedsingleprogramofferedforNBCCcontinuingeducationcredit,theprogramProvidermustprominentlydisplayonallrelatedmaterialsoneofthefollowingNBCCApprovalStatements,asspecifiedintheSingleProgramapprovalletter,includingprintandelectronicadvertising,promotional,

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and informational materials.

[PROGRAM NAME] has been approved by NBCC for NBCC credit. [PROVIDER NAME] is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBCC Approval No. SP______.

[PROGRAM NAME] has been approved by NBCC for NBCC credit. Sessions approved for NBCC credit areclearlyidentified.[PROVIDERNAME]issolelyresponsibleforallaspectsoftheprogram.NBCCApproval No. SP________.

UnlessexpresslyauthorizedbyNBCC,theProvidermustnotdisplayanyotherstatement,ormakeanyother representation, concerningNBCC,NBCCProvider status, orNBCCapproval or endorsement ofany programs or organizations. The Provider must not make any representation that NBCC endorses orsupportsanyspecificcontinuingeducationprogram,counseling theoryormethod,orotherprogramcontent.

4. Single Program Provider Information Reporting Requirements.

(a). InformationChangeReportingRequirement.TheProvidermustpromptlynotifyNBCCinwritingofanychangeormodificationwithrespecttotheinformationprovidedtoNBCCconcerningtherequirementsofthisPolicy,andNBCCagreementsanddirectives.Thisrequirementincludes,butisnotlimitedto,prompt,writtennotificationofanychangeormodificationconcerning:Providercontactinformation,name,orbusinessform,e.g.,corporation,LLC,orsoleproprietorship;Providerbankruptcy,merger,oracquisition;and,Providerrepresentative(s)designatedtocommunicateandcooperatewithNBCC.SuchwrittennoticemustbeprovidedtoNBCCwithinthirty(30)daysofthechangeormodification.

(b). Legal Matters Reporting Requirements. The Provider must report to NBCC its involvement in any criminal investigationorcase,anycivilcourtmatter,andanygovernmentagencymatter. SuchinvolvementmustbereportedtoNBCCwithinthirty(30)daysofthedatethattheProviderknew,orshouldhaveknown,aboutthecriminal,civil,orgovernmentagencymatter.

5. Single Program Approval Termination. In the event that NBCC determines that an approved single program,or theprogramProvider, isnot in compliancewith thisPolicyorotherNBCCrequirements,NBCCmayimmediatelyterminatetheprogramapproval.NBCCwillnotifytheProvideroftheprogramtermination,andprohibittheofferingorgrantingofanyNBCCcreditrelatedtotheprogram.Uponsuchnotification,theProviderwillimmediatelystoprepresentingthattheprogramisapprovedbyNBCC,andthattheprogramisofferedforNBCCcredit.Inaddition,theProviderwillprominentlydisplayanoticeintheprogramannouncementsandadvertisingstatingthatNBCCnolongerapprovestheprogram,andnoNBCC credit is available.

L. ACEP COMPLIANCE DEFICIENCY PROCEDURE

1. ACEPComplianceReviewProcess.

NBCCwillreviewallpotentialdeficiencymattersandcomplaintsrelatedtoanACEP’scompliancewiththerequirementsof thisPolicy,NBCCagreements,anddirectivesfromNBCCrelatedto thisPolicytodetermineifanauditorotherreviewofthedeficiencymattershouldbeinitiated.Basedonsuchreview,andinitssolediscretion,NBCCwilldeterminewhetheraformalComplianceDeficiencyNotice(DeficiencyNotice)iswarrantedconcerninganACEP.NBCCmayrequirethattheACEPsubmitadditionalinformation

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and/ormaterialsrelatedtothereviewofapotentialdeficiencymatter.

2. ACEPDeficiencyCorrectionLetters.

IntheeventthatNBCCdeterminesthatanACEPhasactedinconsistentwiththisPolicyorotherNBCCrequirements,andthatthematterconcernsaminorortechnicalviolation,NBCCmayissueadeficiencycorrectionletter.ThedeficiencycorrectionletterwilladvisetheACEPofthedeficiencyandrequirerelatedcorrective actions and/or conditionswithin a reasonable time period. NBCCwill not issue sanctionsconcerningminordeficiencyletters,andthecorrectiveactionsspecifiedmaynotbeappealed.

3. FormalACEPComplianceDeficiencyNoticeandResponse.

IntheeventthatNBCCdeterminesthatanACEPmayhaveactedinconsistentwiththisPolicyorotherNBCCrequirements,andthatthematterconcernsaviolationorpatternofviolations,NBCCwillnotifytheProviderinwritingbyaformalDeficiencyNotice,whichwillrequireafull,writtenresponsetotheNoticewithinthirty(30)days.TheDeficiencyNoticewillidentifyandexplaintheapparentdeficiencies,andwillreferencetheapplicablePolicytermsandotherNBCCrequirements.Iftheapparentdeficiencyisthesubjectofacomplaintbyanotherparty,theidentityofthecomplainantwillnotbeidentifiedtotheProvider.

4. NBCC Decision and Compliance Actions.

Based upon the information received and reviewed, including theACEP’s response to theDeficiencyNotice,NBCCwilldeterminewhethertheProviderwillbethesubjectofacompliancedeficiencyaction,whichmay include: conditions related to theProvider’sACEP status;ACEP status probation; and/or,termination ofACEP status. TheACEP and complainant, if applicable,will be notifiedof theNBCCdeficiencydeterminationsandthedecisioninwriting.

5. ACEPAppealofComplianceDeficiencyDecision.

(a). DeficiencyDecisionAppealSubmissions.Within thirty (30)daysof the issuanceof an adversecomplianceDeficiencyDecision, theACEPmay submit awritten appeal and request reviewoftheactionandbasis thereof. Appeals receivedbeyond this timeperiodwillnotbe reviewedorconsidered. In order to complete an appealwithin the prescribed time period, theACEPmustsubmitwrittencommunicationtothePresident/CEOwhichcontainsthefollowinginformationandmaterials:

(1).Astatementofthegroundsfortheappeal,includingacompleteexplanationofthereasonsthattheProviderbelievesthatthecomplianceDeficiencyDecisionisincorrectandshouldbereversedorotherwisemodified;

(2).Arequestedmodificationoftheaction;and,

(3).Accurate,completecopiesofanymaterialsthatsupporttheappeal.

(b). Grounds forDeficiencyDecisionAppeal. The grounds for an appeal of an adverseDeficiencyDecisionarelimitedstrictlytothefollowing:

(1).Neworpreviouslyundisclosedinformation:theACEPhaslocatedrelevantinformationthat

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wasnotpreviouslyinitspossession,wasnotreasonablyavailablepriortothesubmissionoftheACEP’sresponsetotheDeficiencyNotice,andcouldhaveaffectedNBCC’sdecision;

(2).Misapplication of identifiedPolicy terms and/or otherNBCC requirements: NBCChasmisappliedtheprovisionsofsuchpoliciesorrequirements,andthemisapplicationprejudicedtheACEP;and/or,

(3). TheDeficiencyDecisioniscontrarytotheinformationpresented:thedecisioniscontrarytothemostsubstantialinformationintherecordofthematter,andthenoncompliancefindingis in error.

6. President/ChiefExecutiveOfficerReviewandFinalAppealDecision.

Complete Deficiency Decision appeals will be reviewed and resolved by the NBCC President/ChiefExecutiveOfficer(CEO).BasedontherecordinformationandmaterialsreceivedbyNBCC,includingtheACEP’sDeficiencyNoticeresponse,thePresident/CEOwilldeterminewhethertotakeoneormoreofthefollowingactions:(a)requirethattheACEPsubmitadditionalinformationconcerningtheappeal;(b)dismissanddeclinetofurtherprocesstheappealasinadequate,incomplete,orfrivolous;and/or,(c)reverseorotherwisemodifytheDeficiencyDecisionand/oraction.ThePresident/CEOwillissueafinalappealdecisionstatingandexplainingtheoutcomeandresolutionoftheappeal,whichmayincludeasummaryofanyrelevantfindingsandthedeterminationsregardingeachmatterunderappeal.ThePresident/CEOappeal decisionwill be sent to theACEP and complainant, if applicable, viaU.S.mail, return receiptrequested,orotherappropriatedeliverymethod.

7. ReinstatementandReapplicationProceduresFollowingACEPConditions,Probation,orTermination.

(a). ACEPReinstatementFollowingConditionsorProbation.Followingtheexpirationofconditionsand/oratermofprobationissuedinafinalDeficiencyDecisionorappeal,NBCCwilldeterminewhethertheACEPhassatisfiedallsuchconditionsandprobationterms.IftheACEPhassatisfiedthe conditions and/or terms of probation in full,NBCCwill verify that the probation has beencompleted and reinstate theACEP to good standing status. If theACEPhas not satisfied suchconditionsand/ortermsofprobationinfull,NBCCwillnotifytheACEPofthefailuretosatisfytheidentifiedconditionsand/ortheprobationrequirements,andNBCCmaytakethefollowingactions:continuationoftheconditionsand/orprobationorder;and/or,issuanceofadditionalsanctionsorremedial actions.

(b). ProviderReapplicationFollowingACEPTermination.Three(3)yearsafterafinalACEPterminationdecision, theACEPmaysubmit toNBCCanapplication forACEPstatusandall required fees,consistentwiththerequirementsofthisPolicy,relatedNBCCagreements,anddirectives.Uponreceiptofacompleteapplicationsubmission,NBCCwilldeterminewhethertheProviderqualifiesforACEPstatus,andnotifytheProviderwhethertheapplicationisaccepted.

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