The competence framework acknowledges the specific knowledge, skills and abilities required by counsellors who wish to work with clients with addictions. The Addictions competence framework can be used by counsellors already working with clients with addictions to map their existing competence and identify any areas for further development.

Counsellors and trainees interested in learning about addictions counselling can also use the framework to assess their readiness for the role and to identify training needs.

The framework also provides training institutions, service providers and researchers with an up-to-date resource to inform and enable such activities as curriculum development and delivery, commissioning, clinical governance, research and continuing professional development (CPD).

User guide

The user guide describes the competence framework, explains its uses and how counsellors can apply it in their practice. It also sets out how the framework can be used by other professionals, practitioners, trainers, employers, services and commissioners.

Training curriculum

The Addictions training curriculum offers training providers a framework for delivering Addictions counselling training. The training curriculum is underpinned by BACP’s evidence-based Addictions competence framework (2024) which identifies the additional knowledge and skills needed to work ethically and effectively with clients with addictions.