Cyprus Psychologists Registration Council issues warning regarding illegal use of professional title

The Cyprus Psychologists Registration Council has issued an official statement addressing the recent conviction of an individual for sexual abuse who had been presenting themselves as a professional psychologist. The council clarified that the convicted person is not a licensed, registered psychologist and does not possess a permit to practice the profession. While the individual is listed in the Register of Psychology Graduates, they are not on the Register of Registered Psychologists, meaning they are not legally authorized to provide diagnosis or therapy. The council emphasized that the unauthorized public use of the title 'Registered Psychologist' constitutes a criminal offense. According to current regulations, psychology graduates who are not fully registered are restricted to academic research, teaching, and preliminary interviewing for referral purposes only. The council has announced that it will initiate all necessary legal procedures against this individual. Furthermore, the organization reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the public and minors by investigating all reports of non-licensed individuals acting as psychologists. Members of the public are urged to verify the registration status of professionals before seeking services.