Image: Supplied by Canadian Press

By Adam Campbell

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

Ministry of Health initiates consultation to classify Psychotherapy as a regulated health profession

May 25, 2024 | 11:31 AM

VICTORIA — The Ministry of Health has announced the start of consultation to designate psychotherapy as a regulated health profession under the Health Professions Act.

In a news release on Friday (May 24), the Province announced this is in an effort to “create more consistent care delivery for people accessing mental-health services.” The consultation process is scheduled to last one month.

Those individuals with titles such as clinical counsellors, counselling therapists and psychotherapists with a focus on mental health may be included.

Minister of Health Adrian Dix, highlighted the importance of taking care of our mental wellbeing.

“Taking care of our mental health is as important as caring for our physical health,” stated Dix. “By moving ahead on this consultation, we are ensuring that those who offer psychotherapy and those clinical counsellors who focus on mental health are recognized as health-care providers, making sure they provide safe care to patients.”

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Psychotherapy focuses on treating mental-health conditions and psychological disorders, at times involving a direct treatment to the patient’s psyche.

Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Jennifer Whiteside, also recognized the vital duties of psychotherapists.

“Psychotherapists provide vital support to help people navigate mental-health challenges, so it’s important that their services are consistent, reliable and safe,” stated Whiteside.

If designated as a regulated health profession, psychotherapy professionals would then be regulated under a regulatory college. These colleges establish educational requirements and other measures, ensuring these professionals are qualified.