[Psychotherapy: Legally recognized in Quebec]

Area of Science:

• Psychotherapy regulation
• Professional self-regulation
• Health law

Context:

• Quebec's 2009 psychotherapy law followed 30 years of inter-professional dialogue.
• An expert committee, chaired by Dr. Jean-Bernard Trudeau, reached a consensus in 2005.
• The law integrates psychotherapy practice within a regulated professional system.

Purpose:

• To detail the historical development and key milestones in Quebec's psychotherapy regulation.
• To explain the implementation and impact of Law 21.
• To highlight the consensus-driven definition of psychotherapy and its scope.

Summary:

• Law 21, adopted in 2009, established strict regulations for psychotherapy practice in Quebec.
• Requirements include licensing, mandatory continuing education, and adherence to professional standards.
• A consensus definition of psychotherapy, broader than mental disorder treatment, was established.

Impact:

• Ensures competence and ethical practice through licensing and continuous training.
• Provides a framework for psychotherapy within public and private sectors.
• An interdisciplinary council monitors regulatory conformity and advises professional orders.