The European Standard in Psychology set by EFPA
The EuroPsy standards are detailed in the EuroPsy Regulations:
These Regulations describe the EFPA framework of competences, which define the functional and foundational competences that professional psychologists should develop and demonstrate before being admitted to independent practice. These competences relate to aspects of the process by which psychologists render services to their clients.
Although some knowledge and skills are general in their applicability, many are context related. The following main fields of practice are also defined in the EuroPsy Regulations: Clinical & Health; Education; Work & Organisations; Sport; Community & Social Intervention.
The EuroPsy Regulations also explain in detail the minimum requirements for psychologists’ education, training, and competence across Europe, including:
- a nationally accredited academic curriculum in psychology with a standard duration of at least five years of full-time study (300 ECTS)
- followed by a one-year (1,500 hours; 60 ECTS) period of professional practice under supervision
- Psychologists’ adherence to national ethical standards
- commitment to continuously develop professional competence
(For more information, read Appendix I)
For advanced or specialist practice, the Regulations specify additional requirements, including:
- at least three years (4,500 hours) of professional experience in the relevant field
- theoretical and applied training
- specialist practice under supervision
- commitment to continuously develop professional competence
- further specific criteria apply in particular areas of specialisation, such as: Psychotherapy, Work and Organisational Psychology, Sport Psychology, and Clinical Neuropsychology, as described in the EuroPsy Regulations
(For more information, read Appendix II)
Supervised Practice and Continuing Professional Development are core aspects of EuroPsy that are covered in the EuroPsy Regulations. (read Appendix III and IV). You can read here pointers of good practice that can be used as guidance to help put into practice what is in the Regulations themselves.
The EuroPsy standards are detailed in the EuroPsy Regulations. These Regulations also enable the enhancement of national standards (without replacing national licensing) and outline the criteria and mechanisms for those EFPA Full Member interested in issuing EuroPsy certifications.
The EuroPsy Certificate and EuroPsy Specialist Certificates can be awarded to individual psychologists who meet the conditions specified in EuroPsy Regulations.
