Parliament recognises clinical psychologists

The Federal Parliament last week approved a proposed law that recognises clinical psychologists and orthopedagogists as health professions and provides a legal framework for psychotherapy.

Patients can now be sure of the quality of the mental health care they receive from these professionals, who are now also socially and legally protected. Clinical psychologists and orthopedagogists are now recognised as autonomous care providers who are bound by professional secrecy and can organise standby duties.

The measure also brings to an end the possibility for anyone to call themselves a psychotherapist. These professionals now have to meet certain requirements, such as following at least four years of education after their Bachelor’s degree.

Finally, a new Superior Council for Mental Health has been established, where experts from the sector can advise the responsible ministers on the Belgian mental health care policy.

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