Can anyone be called a psychologist?
Published: 06:05 PM,May 03,2025 | EDITED : 10:05 PM,May 03,2025
In many countries, psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counsellors undergo years of training, certification, and supervision before practising.
A recent report published in The Economist showed an increase in the number of people seeking psychological support worldwide. This is generally a positive development as it indicates greater awareness of mental health issues.
Sometimes, patients prefer to consult a private counsellor or psychologist based on their popularity and social media presence. However, the report highlighted a significant number of so-called 'therapists' who are unqualified or unlicensed.
Unlike professions like medicine or law, which require strict licensing and educational requirements, anyone can provide 'therapy' without proper clinical training or supervision. In the age of virtual clinics, individuals can claim to offer therapy online without being registered by health or social services authorities in their country, potentially attracting clients from around the world.
While psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counsellors in many countries undergo extensive training and supervision, self-proclaimed therapists often lack formal education or mental health training. Some may have completed short online courses or read self-help books, but this does not substitute for clinical expertise.
Having unqualified individuals practice therapy can have negative consequences, as mental health issues necessitate careful assessment, evidence-based interventions, and professional judgement. Seeking help from an unlicensed 'therapist' could result in misleading, ineffective, or harmful advice for individuals struggling with depression, trauma, or anxiety. In extreme cases, inappropriate guidance could worsen mental health conditions, delaying proper treatment and putting individuals at risk of deterioration or even suicide.
While some countries are taking steps to regulate the use of the term 'therapist' by requiring specific licenses for psychotherapists or counsellors, many regions lack legal protections, leaving the public vulnerable to unverified mental health services.
According to Psychology Today, there are several tips to help identify a qualified therapist. A licensed therapist should have a degree in psychology, counselling, social work, or psychiatry from a recognised institution. They should also hold licenses from regulatory boards and adhere to ethical codes set by governing bodies.
The World Health Organization emphasises that mental health care should meet the same standards as physical health care. Just as one wouldn't visit an unlicensed doctor for surgery, individuals should not seek therapy from unqualified providers.
Governments and professional organisations must work towards stricter regulations to safeguard the public from misleading and potentially harmful mental health services.
Until such regulations are in place, it is crucial for individuals to thoroughly research and verify a therapist's qualifications before seeking help.
In my opinion, implementing a strict licensing process for psychology and counselling graduates before they can provide clinical services in Oman is essential to ensure patient safety and quality care.
A recent report published in The Economist showed an increase in the number of people seeking psychological support worldwide. This is generally a positive development as it indicates greater awareness of mental health issues.
Sometimes, patients prefer to consult a private counsellor or psychologist based on their popularity and social media presence. However, the report highlighted a significant number of so-called 'therapists' who are unqualified or unlicensed.
Unlike professions like medicine or law, which require strict licensing and educational requirements, anyone can provide 'therapy' without proper clinical training or supervision. In the age of virtual clinics, individuals can claim to offer therapy online without being registered by health or social services authorities in their country, potentially attracting clients from around the world.
While psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counsellors in many countries undergo extensive training and supervision, self-proclaimed therapists often lack formal education or mental health training. Some may have completed short online courses or read self-help books, but this does not substitute for clinical expertise.
Having unqualified individuals practice therapy can have negative consequences, as mental health issues necessitate careful assessment, evidence-based interventions, and professional judgement. Seeking help from an unlicensed 'therapist' could result in misleading, ineffective, or harmful advice for individuals struggling with depression, trauma, or anxiety. In extreme cases, inappropriate guidance could worsen mental health conditions, delaying proper treatment and putting individuals at risk of deterioration or even suicide.
While some countries are taking steps to regulate the use of the term 'therapist' by requiring specific licenses for psychotherapists or counsellors, many regions lack legal protections, leaving the public vulnerable to unverified mental health services.
According to Psychology Today, there are several tips to help identify a qualified therapist. A licensed therapist should have a degree in psychology, counselling, social work, or psychiatry from a recognised institution. They should also hold licenses from regulatory boards and adhere to ethical codes set by governing bodies.
The World Health Organization emphasises that mental health care should meet the same standards as physical health care. Just as one wouldn't visit an unlicensed doctor for surgery, individuals should not seek therapy from unqualified providers.
Governments and professional organisations must work towards stricter regulations to safeguard the public from misleading and potentially harmful mental health services.
Until such regulations are in place, it is crucial for individuals to thoroughly research and verify a therapist's qualifications before seeking help.
In my opinion, implementing a strict licensing process for psychology and counselling graduates before they can provide clinical services in Oman is essential to ensure patient safety and quality care.