New Standards for Counsellors and Psychotherapists Spark Concerns

The Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP), representing over 6,500 professionals, has raised alarms over new standards introduced by the regulatory body Coru. The association argues that these changes threaten client safety and could limit access to essential mental health services across Ireland.

In a statement released recently, the IACP expressed its deep concern about the heightened entry requirements for psychotherapists. The new standards, published in July 2023, elevate the qualification threshold within the professional training framework. The IACP believes that these stricter criteria, coupled with restrictive scopes of practice, will deter potential new entrants. This, in turn, may reduce the number of available professionals, further hindering timely access to mental health care.

Lisa Molloy, Chief Executive Officer of the IACP, emphasized the association’s commitment to fair regulation while calling for urgent intervention from government officials. “We fully support fair regulation,” Molloy stated, adding that the IACP has consistently advocated for state oversight of the sector. “But these new rules risk shutting people out of therapy, making waiting lists even longer and leaving the most vulnerable without the help they need.”

As mental health services in Ireland face increasing demand, the IACP contends that the newly implemented standards weaken professional training. This vulnerability in training comes at a critical time when many individuals are seeking support for their mental health challenges. The association is calling on Health Minister Jennifer O’Carroll MacNeill and Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler to address these concerns promptly.

The IACP’s stance highlights a significant debate within the mental health sector regarding the balance between regulatory requirements and ensuring adequate access to services. With waiting lists for therapy already lengthy, the IACP warns that these changes could exacerbate existing issues, potentially leaving many individuals without necessary support.

The call for intervention underscores the urgent need to reassess the impact of these new standards on both practitioners and clients. As the conversation continues, the IACP remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that mental health services are accessible and safe for all individuals seeking help.