Traumatology Institute & Psychological Services, Philippines (TIPS) is an accredited training site of the Green Cross Academy of Traumatology (GCAT), USA, in the Philippines and the first in Asia. TIPS offers traumatology workshops for professionals, educators, and responders seeking to strengthen their trauma-informed practice.
The questions below explain training eligibility, certification, GCAT membership, and participation requirements.
1. What training programs does TIPS offer?
TIPS offers workshops supporting five levels of GCAT certification:
- Level 1: Compassion Fatigue Educator
- Level 2: Compassion Fatigue Practitioner
- Level 3: Field Traumatologist
- Level 4: Clinical Traumatologist
- Level 5: Master Traumatologist
Completing a workshop does not automatically grant GCAT certification. Certification requires a separate application to GCAT and fulfillment of its requirements.
2. Who can enroll in TIPS training programs?
Participants should meet the following educational requirements in an allied medical or behavioral science field:
- Levels 1–3: At least a bachelor’s degree.
- Levels 4–5: Currently pursuing a master’s degree or higher.
Eligibility to attend training is separate from eligibility for certification. Clinical and Master Traumatologist certification generally requires a relevant mental health background, graduate education, professional licensure, and work experience. Review GCAT’s requirements for your intended certification before applying.
3. Does TIPS issue official GCAT certification?
No. TIPS facilitates GCAT-accredited training and workshops. GCAT is the organization authorized to award its traumatology certifications. To apply for official certification, you must become a GCAT member and submit your credentials and training completion certificates directly to GCAT for evaluation and processing.
4. How do I begin working toward GCAT certification?
You may begin by attending training offered by TIPS or another GCAT-affiliated training site. You do not need to become a GCAT member before attending TIPS training. When you are ready to apply for certification, you must obtain GCAT membership, submit the required credentials and training certificates, and meet the requirements for your chosen certification. Refer to the GCAT certification requirements for the applicable checklist and pathway.
5. Do I need to take the training in level order?
You may attend training in any order and timeframe that suit your schedule, provided you meet the applicable entry requirements. However, GCAT certification requires completion of all courses and other requirements listed in the checklist for your chosen certification level.
6. What training must I complete to become a Clinical Traumatologist?
Consult the GCAT certification checklist for the required courses and credentials. You may complete training before applying for GCAT membership and certification. Attending the required courses alone does not establish eligibility for Clinical Traumatologist certification; GCAT also evaluates the relevant education, professional background, licensure, and other requirements.
7. Does completing TIPS training or receiving GCAT certification authorize me to practice psychology, psychotherapy, or counseling?
Training certificates and GCAT certification do not, by themselves, authorize professional practice in the Philippines or replace the required professional license. Participants must comply with the laws and professional regulations applicable to their work, including the Philippine Psychology Act of 2009 (Republic Act No. 10029) and the Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004 (Republic Act No. 9258), where applicable. TIPS provides educational training, while GCAT administers its certification process. You must practice within the scope permitted by your professional qualifications and applicable regulations.
8. Are TIPS courses offered online or onsite?
TIPS offers both online and onsite training. The format for each course is stated in the training announcement and registration form. Some courses require onsite participation because of the activities involved and the sensitivity of the topics, allowing facilitators to support participants who experience strong emotional reactions.
9. Does TIPS offer self-paced, modular, or asynchronous courses?
No. TIPS training requires attendance and participation in scheduled online or onsite sessions. If you need self-paced learning, you may check with GCAT or the Traumatology Institute of Canada about available options.
10. Must I turn on my camera during online training?
Yes. Participants are expected to keep their cameras on and actively participate during online training. Professional conduct and participation are required for both online and onsite courses. Participants who do not participate will not receive a training completion certificate and will be removed in the online training session.
11. When will the next training be offered, and how much does it cost?
TIPS generally offers each course once a year. Registration announcements are posted on the TIPS website and social media pages. Visit Upcoming Trainings for schedules, fees, and registration forms.
12. Do TIPS courses include CPD units?
TIPS courses do not come with CPD units. Participants may apply for recognition of their training as self-directed learning, subject to the requirements and approval of their relevant professional regulatory body.
13. Do I need GCAT membership to attend TIPS training?
No. You may attend TIPS training without being a GCAT member, provided you meet the course’s entry requirements. GCAT membership is required when applying for GCAT certification and for maintaining an active certification status.
14. Does GCAT recognize training courses offered by TIPS?
Yes. GCAT recognizes and accepts TIPS training courses, which are accredited and certified by GCAT. After completing your training, submit your course completion certificates and other required credentials to GCAT when applying for certification.
15. Is GCAT membership annual or a one-time membership?
GCAT membership is annual. You must renew it each year to keep your membership active.
16. Is active GCAT membership required to maintain my certification?
Yes. Your GCAT certification remains active only while your GCAT membership is active.
17. What happens to my certification if I do not renew my membership?
Your GCAT certification is considered invalid when your membership ends. If you do not renew, you must not present yourself as holding a valid GCAT certification.
18. Are there continuing education requirements for maintaining certification?
GCAT currently encourages licensed professionals to follow the ethical standards and continuing education requirements of their respective professional bodies and jurisdictions, including any required continuing education units (CEUs). An active GCAT membership is also required to maintain certification. Contact GCAT directly to clarify any additional renewal or continuing education requirements that apply to your certification.
19. How can I book a session with a trauma therapist?
TIPS is for training and workshops only. To book a therapy sessions, visit the directories below and contact the listed practitioners directly:
20. Who can I contact for more information about GCAT membership and certification?
For more information, email the GCAT Office Manager at gcatofficemanager@gmail.com.