Nicosia, Cyprus. A bill seeking to integrate counselling psychologists into the national health system (Gesy) is expected to be brought before the parliamentary plenary session in the coming days. The measure was discussed in the House health committee on Thursday.
Proposed legal change
The proposed legislation, promoted by Disy MP Charalambos Pazaros and Dipa MP Alekos Tryfonidis, would amend the general health insurance law so that counselling psychologists are formally recognised as “other health professionals” within the system, allowing them to provide services to Gesy beneficiaries.
HIO position and possible rollout
Speaking after the committee meeting, Pazaros said the health insurance organisation (HIO) had signalled its willingness to examine the proposal and submit it to its board of directors for approval as a separate professional category within the system.
According to Pazaros, the initial integration would likely involve a limited package of services focusing on specific health conditions, with the possibility of gradual expansion depending on available funding.
Rationale and demand
Pazaros said counselling psychology could operate complementary to clinical psychology and manage cases that do not fall within the strict scope of clinical practice. He said this could decongest the system, reduce waiting times and distribute cases more effectively among professionals.
He added that counselling psychologists could play a significant role in prevention and early intervention, and in supporting patients dealing with psychosocial challenges or chronic and difficult illnesses. Pazaros said mental health is a fundamental pillar of overall health and well-being, and that access to psychological support services must be universal, immediate and of high quality.
Tryfonidis described a “huge necessity” for the inclusion of counselling psychologists in Gesy, saying demand for such services is growing and that patients should not have to rely on private care to receive appropriate support.
What changes do you expect from the inclusion of counselling psychologists in Gesy?
