Application Process

Step One:

Interested organizations should contact the International Board for Certification of Group Psychotherapists (IBCGP) at (877) 668-2472 to be assigned a "navigator" to assist them in the application process.

Step Two:

The navigator will consult with the organization to determine if the organization meets criteria to apply. The organization then completes the application form, see attached application, and submits it to the IBCGP office with the appropriate fee.

If in consultation with the navigator it is determined that the organization does not yet meet the criteria, there is the option of negotiating a training partnership with AGPA to meet the criteria. This partnership involves working with the navigator to develop an individualized plan, including the following options:

  • CGP Designation for Staff. Staff who meet all of the qualifications for the CGP and are not yet certified will have their application and recertification fees included in the AGPA Training Contact.

  • Scholarships. The organization will receive priority consideration for scholarships to the AGPA Annual Institute and Conference.

  • Access to AGPA Training and Continuing Education. AGPA will contract with the organization to provide continuing education that may include AGPA published training manuals for self-study, distance learning courses, and/or onsite training.

Step Three:

a. Once the application has been received, the IBCGP assigns two evaluators to conduct the evaluation process.

b. The evaluators will use the application, a site visit to the organization or via video/teleconferencing, and established scoring criteria to rate the organization. The applying organization must satisfy all criteria at an acceptable level to receive this designation.

c. The evaluators provide a summary of their findings to the IBCGP and AGPA Boards of Directors for approval. 

d. The organization is informed of the decision by the IBCGP.

Step Four:

Upon approval the IBCGP activates all benefits and provides a certification document for public display that informs the organization and the public of its CoE designation for up to four years. 


To download a copy of the application, please click here