Psychotherapy could soon be a regulated health profession in British Columbia, according to the province’s health ministry.

The province is proposing changes to the Health Professions Act to regulate psychotherapy so those in the field, include people those who use titles such as clinical counsellor, counselling therapist and psychotherapist, will be subject to government oversight.

The provincial government says it will consult with the public for the next month and then decide whether to formally regulate psychotherapy.

If the province decides to regulate, a new regulatory college will be formed and regulations around responsibility, scope of practice and more will be created.

Right now, anyone can call themselves a therapist and advertise their services to British Columbians seeking support for mental and emotional health. They don’t need any training and there’s no official body with legal powers to hold them accountable for any damage they might cause.