THE Health Minister has rejected a backbencher’s call to introduce regulation for therapeutic counsellors in Jersey — arguing that the costs and complexities of such a system would not be justified.
Instead, Islanders will be encouraged to check a therapist’s credentials through UK accrediting bodies before seeking support for their mental health.
Deputy Tom Coles had lodged a proposition calling for all counsellors to be legally required to register with the Jersey Care Commission and a recognised UK governing body, such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.
The Reform Jersey politician warned that the current lack of oversight left vulnerable individuals at risk, with no formal complaints process for those who experience poor or harmful treatment.
However, Health Minister Tom Binet argued there was “little evidence” to justify the need for regulation, arguing that the risks posed by unaccredited counsellors in Jersey had not been clearly demonstrated.
Deputy Binet also warned that regulation could cause disruption to mental health services at a time of growing demand.
“If Jersey becomes the only place where counselling services are regulated in the British Isles, this could have negative unintended consequences for the Island,” he said.
Rather than bringing in legislation, the minister hopes to launch a public awareness campaign later this year.
The campaign, expected to cost around £5,000, will involve information on the government website, social media posts, posters and leaflets in GP surgeries and charities, digital adverts, and engagement with mental health organisations.
“This is a proportionate, non-legislative policy approach to the issue which recognises, and seeks to mitigate, a potential risk to the public posed by unaccredited therapeutic counsellors in Jersey,” the minister said.
Deputy Binet also pointed to the position of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society, a UK accrediting body, which has said that regulation is not necessary.
Deputy Coles, however, has argued that regulation and oversight would protect the “safety and wellbeing of clients” while also preventing “financial exploitation” where counsellors charge clients for services without providing effective treatment.
He said: “Mental health is a delicate area, and it is crucial that those providing therapeutic counselling are properly qualified and accountable. This regulation will not only protect clients but also strengthen the counselling profession as a whole.”
Currently, psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, psychotherapists, and mental health nurses must register with regulatory bodies, but counsellors operate without such oversight.
Patricia Tumelty, chief executive of the mental health charity Mind Jersey, has previously voiced support for greater oversight of private therapy services.
“Some people may not be getting the right level of skills, experience and knowledge that they require and may be expecting,” she said.
