Efforts to regulate the profession of psychotherapy in Cyprus

The Pancyprian Association of Psychotherapists is advocating for a formal regulatory framework for the psychotherapy profession in Cyprus, citing concerns over public health and professional standards. In March 2017, the association submitted a draft bill to the then Minister of Health, George Pamboridis. This proposal included the establishment of a registration council, defined criteria for professional qualifications, and transitional measures for existing practitioners. In November 2020, the Ministry of Health placed the bill under public consultation, though the association notes it was not sufficiently informed at that time. Since then, there has been no substantive progress or legislative development. The absence of this regulatory framework remains a point of contention, as the association claims it leaves the profession without oversight and creates uncertainty for patients. Currently, the association is updating the draft bill to align it with modern scientific and European standards. They emphasize that the primary goal of this initiative is to ensure that psychotherapy services are provided by certified and supervised professionals.