Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O’Loughlin has raised the issue of regard to the registration of counsellors and psychotherapists.
Senator O’Loughlin said, “At present, we have over 8,000 psychotherapists and counsellors qualified, accredited and insured in Ireland, which is a very valuable resource.”
“We all know the number of people who need support with their mental health. However, in many instances, people are using medication and are being prescribed medication when they really need talk therapy, and the underlying issue is not actually being dealt with.”
“I met recently with a group called Therapists For Change. This is a group of 900 psychotherapists who have come together to work towards improving the mental health service in Ireland and to professionalise the service they are offering.”
“ A recent report from Jigsaw noted that, in 2021, it had received its highest ever number of referrals and it saw a 104% increase in demand for its online live chat service and a 144% increase in demand for its email support.”
Fiona concluded by saying “We absolutely need to ensure that we support our counsellors and psychotherapists to ensure that everyone who needs it gets timely and appropriate access to mental health services.”
-ENDS-