IACP calls for increased access to counselling and psychotherapy
As the largest counselling and psychotherapy association in Ireland with 5,000+ members, the Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (the IACP) is a highly respected professional body.
We are a trusted link between those looking for counselling/psychotherapy and those who provide it. We supply information to members and set and maintain practice and training standards. The IACP has established a comprehensive code of ethics and practice. We represent counselling/psychotherapy at both national and international levels.
As part of our mission, the IACP dedicates itself to promoting and advancing the profession of counselling and psychotherapy. We continue to achieve this through the promotion and provision of high-quality education, training, and professional development, by raising awareness of the value and benefits of counselling and psychotherapy and by supporting members to work to the highest possible standards, for the service and the protection of individuals seeking therapy.
The Find a Therapist Tool, accessible through iacp.ie provides a free comprehensive online directory of all accredited IACP counsellors/psychotherapists nationwide.
Lobbying and pre-budget submission 2024
The IACP proposed three strategies in our Budget 2024 submission that would help achieve our ultimate aim of establishing universal access to counselling and psychotherapy.
1. School counselling and psychotherapy initiative
In order to address the growing need for timely access to counselling and psychotherapy services for children and young people, it is proposed that funding be provided to expand the pilot Programme of Counselling in Primary Schools to all primary and second level schools.
2. Expansion of tax relief to counselling and psychotherapy
The IACP continues to urge the Government to act swiftly to expand tax relief for counselling and psychotherapy services to be deemed an eligible expense in line with other health expenses. Minding one’s mental health is an integral component of a person’s general health and the fees for mental health services should be eligible for tax relief in the same way as physical health medical expenses are.
3. VAT exemption
The IACP seeks equity of treatment and parity of esteem as mental health professionals delivering psychotherapy and counselling, with our peers who deliver physical health care, such as GPs and dentists. The IACP’s modest and fair proposals would facilitate the equal treatment for those accessing counselling and psychotherapy services in terms of tax relief and fairness, through reform of the VAT system, for mental health professionals.
W: www.iacp.ie
