Ministers are being urged to regulate psychotherapists and counselors in England to safeguard vulnerable individuals following a surge in lawsuits over alleged harm caused during therapy sessions. Unlike other healthcare professions like doctors and midwives, the titles of “psychotherapist” and “counselor” are not protected or regulated by law in the UK.
This lack of regulation means that anyone, regardless of qualifications, can label themselves as a therapist and continue practicing even after misconduct. This has become a cause for concern as the number of people seeking mental health support has increased, with a record 5 million referrals in England in 2023, marking a 33% rise from 2019.
While therapy has proven beneficial for many, lawyers have witnessed an uptick in inquiries about malpractice and abuse cases. The recent high court case involving Ella Janneh, who successfully sued her therapist for sexual assault, has shed light on the issue. Since then, solicitors have seen a surge in similar claims from individuals alleging various forms of abuse.
Catriona Rubens, a solicitor at Leigh Day, highlighted the challenges faced by victims of abuse in therapy sessions. Victims often feel embarrassed and humiliated, making it difficult for them to take action against their abusers. Despite successful lawsuits, therapists are not legally barred from practicing, raising concerns about the safety of future clients.
Ella Janneh and Catriona Rubens are now advocating for statutory regulation of psychotherapists and counselors. They aim to introduce new legislation to parliament to address the gaps in the current system. The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) has reported a 24% increase in complaints against accredited therapists since 2020, signaling a pressing need for stricter regulations.
While the BACP supports statutory regulation, the lack of legal oversight remains a significant issue. Lisa Morrison Coulthard, the director of professional standards at the BACP, emphasized the importance of accreditation in providing some level of reassurance for the public. The BACP is collaborating with NHS England and the Professional Standards Authority to develop a framework for registrations and accreditations in psychological professions.
Legal experts specializing in therapy abuse have witnessed a surge in cases, with individuals becoming more willing to come forward. The absence of statutory regulation has been a longstanding issue, prompting MPs like Rachael Maskell to consider lobbying the government for change. Former health minister Dan Poulter stressed the importance of regulating therapists to ensure public safety.
The failure to regulate psychotherapists poses a significant risk to the public, as highlighted by Jonathan Coe, a professional regulation specialist. The lack of oversight allows rogue practitioners to continue operating unchecked, endangering vulnerable individuals seeking therapy. The government is being urged to prioritize the regulation of psychotherapists to protect the well-being of therapy patients and clients.
In conclusion, the urgent need for regulation in the field of psychotherapy is evident from the rising number of abuse cases and malpractice claims. Establishing statutory regulations will not only protect vulnerable individuals but also ensure the credibility and professionalism of the therapy profession. Collaboration between government bodies, professional organizations, and legal experts is crucial in implementing effective regulatory measures to safeguard the well-being of therapy patients.
