HC Deb 11 May 1998 vol 312 cc41-2W
Helen Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what steps he intends to take to ensure that those practising as psychotherapists subscribe to a recognised code of practice and ethics; [41118]

(2) what action he intends to take to ensure that those practising as psychotherapists are trained by, and registered with, a reputable body. [41117]

Mr. Milburn

Counselling and psychotherapy services are provided by a wide diversity of professionals. A large number of professional bodies and organisations exist to provide guidance on training, professional practice, ethics and conduct. It is for those professional bodies to agree on matters concerning training and standards of psychotherapists.

We have required National Health Service employers to satisfy themselves that all staff, including those practising as psychotherapists, have the skills and training appropriate to the roles they are required to carry out.