Why establish such an organization? The program directors at the initial conference decided that it was vitally important to certify individuals as cognitive therapists for several reasons:

• Cognitive therapy, as developed by Aaron T. Beck, M.D., and refined by him and his colleagues, is an important empirically validated psychotherapy which must maintain its own identity.
• There has been confusion in the distinction between psychotherapy which incorporates some cognitive techniques, and cognitive therapy which is based on a cognitive conceptualization.
• Many therapists identify themselves as cognitive therapists when their practice does not reflect such an orientation. Consumers, agencies, insurance companies, and researchers may be misled by this self-appellation.

ACT awards certificates to individuals who have demonstrated an advanced knowledge of the theory of cognitive therapy and expertise in its practice. ACT is multidisciplinary and includes mental health professionals from around the world. Founding Fellows include internationally recognized leaders in the field.

Individuals who apply for membership must document training in cognitive therapy and their postgraduate education. They are required to submit a written case summary with cognitive conceptualizations and audiotapes of actual sessions to be rated by the Credentialing Committee. Certification provides a number of significant Benefits to ACT members.

Given these rigorous requirements, we expect that ACT certification will become the 'gold standard' in the field and will allow the professional and business communities and the public to identify highly skilled cognitive therapists now and in the future.