The Certified Educational Planner (CEP) designation gives families the assurance they need that they are working with a qualified professional who is committed to maintaining the highest quality of service to clients. The certification movement was initiated by the Independent Educational Consultants Assocation (IECA), the professional association representing full-time, experienced consultants. The goal was to recognize those consultants and counselors within and outside of the association who have achieved the highest level of competence and to raise the standards of the entire profession.