Cyprus parliamentary committee discusses legislative regulation of psychotherapy

On November 12, 2026, the Parliamentary Committee on Health in Cyprus convened to address the urgent need for a formal legislative framework regulating the practice of psychotherapy. The Pan-Cyprian Association of Psychotherapists, represented by members including Dimitris N. Siouer and President Thekla Vassiliou, argued that the current absence of specific state regulations poses significant risks to public safety and limits consumer protection in a highly sensitive medical field.

The association is advocating for the immediate establishment of clear professional standards, a mandatory professional registry, and robust oversight mechanisms. Proponents emphasize that psychotherapy is a scientifically grounded process requiring extensive academic training, supervised clinical practice, personal therapy, and adherence to strict ethical codes. Currently, the lack of a standardized law means there are no universally defined qualifications for practitioners or accountability measures for those entrusted with the mental health of citizens.

The committee meeting marks a critical step toward ending the current regulatory vacuum. The proposed framework aims to ensure that only qualified professionals can practice, thereby protecting patients from unqualified providers. Future discussions will focus on determining criteria for educational program recognition and the specific powers of an oversight body to ensure professional conduct and clinical safety.