Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What stylebook and dictionary sources does TPC use?

Our editing team uses the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA), which is currently in its seventh edition. Our dictionary of choice is the Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary (11th edition).

How do I submit a manuscript?

All TPC submissions are handled through Submittable. Log in to your account (or create a free account if it’s your first time) and follow the instructions to submit a new manuscript. If you have any questions, consult Submittable’s Help resources, or email TPC’s managing editor at tpcjournal@nbcc.org. Be sure to read our Manuscript Submission Guidelines and Policies and Procedures before submitting, as they provide vital information on formatting and subject matter.

How do I resubmit for a second review after revisions?

If you are invited by the editor to make revisions to your manuscript based on your peer review, you will receive instructions and the Author Revisions Form through the Submittable platform. The Author Revisions Form will enable you to submit two copies of your revised manuscript (one with track changes, and one clean copy) and documentation of your edits.

What is the standard turnaround time for manuscripts?

TPC is proud to have almost all manuscripts back with an initial editor’s decision within around 60 days of submission. There is also a 60-day schedule for manuscripts from acceptance to publication. **Please note that because of an influx of manuscripts and the transition to a new submission platform, we are experiencing some delays in the review process.

What is an open-source / open-access journal?

An open-source or open-access journal is a publication whose characteristics include no paywall or subscription fees for readers and no fees for authors (not pay-to-play).

Do TPC’s authors retain their copyright to their published work?

Yes! Our copyright agreements allow for the author(s) of a published paper to retain their rights to their research and written material. Reproduction of the TPC article or its contents must include the original TPC publication citation.

Who are the members of TPC’s Editorial Review Board?

Our peer reviewers are some of the brightest minds in the counseling profession and are located all over the United States. They are professors and practitioners, and all of them hold a PhD and the National Certified Counselor (NCC) certification.

Does the National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. and Affiliates (NBCC) decide what gets published in the journal?

No. Although NBCC is the publisher of the journal, the editorial staff and peer reviewers do not consult with NBCC Board members or other NBCC executives about the articles published in the journal, so the journal maintains scholarly integrity and does not reflect the views of NBCC.

Can I earn continuing education (CE) clock hours for reading TPC articles?

Yes! Every eligible article published in TPC has a short corresponding test on CCE Academy. See our Continuing Education page for more details on getting started.

Does TPC offer annual awards?

Yes! Check out our Scholarship Awards page for information on the awards, how to apply, and past winners.
Other questions? Email us at tpcjournal@nbcc.org.