Government Regulatory Bodies for Psychology & Psychotherapy Professions Worldwide

Executive Summary

Key Findings

• 17 Countries Researched: Tier A (6), Tier B (6), Tier C (5)
• Regulatory Models Identified:
  • National statutory bodies (UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Brazil)
  • State/provincial systems (USA, Canada, Argentina)
  • Emerging registration frameworks (Ireland, Singapore)
  • Professional certification systems (Japan, South Korea, EU)
• Protected Titles: Most jurisdictions protect "Psychologist" and specialty titles
• Common Requirements: Master's or Doctoral degree, supervised practice (1-2 years), professional examinations

Regional Coverage Summary

✅ United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland

✅ South Africa, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Germany, France

Tier C: Selective Coverage (5 countries)

✅ Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, India, China

Tier A Countries: Detailed Findings

United Kingdom - HCPC

Official Name: Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

Type: Government Regulatory Body (Statutory Authority)

Scope: National (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland)

Website: https://www.hcpc-uk.org/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Practitioner Psychologist
• Registered Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Counselling Psychologist
• Educational Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Health Psychologist
• Occupational Psychologist
• Sport and Exercise Psychologist

Registration Requirements

• Education: Approved psychology degree (minimum undergraduate) + approved professional qualification (typically Master's or Doctoral level)
• Supervised Practice: Integrated within approved training programs (varies by specialty, typically 1-2 years)
• Examination: No separate national examination; assessment through approved programs
• CPD: Mandatory continuing professional development; subject to audit every 2 years

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Full MRA with EU/EEA countries (post-Brexit arrangements in place)
• Partner Countries: EU/EEA member states
• Assessment Pathway: International applications assessed for equivalence; may require additional training or supervised practice

Governing Legislation

• Health Professions Order 2001 (SI 2002/254)
• Health and Social Work Professions Order 2001

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychological assessment, diagnosis, therapy, counselling, research, consultation
• Restricted Activities: Use of Protected Titles restricted to HCPC registrants
• Prescribing Rights: No prescribing rights for psychologists

United States - State Licensing Boards

Official Name: State Psychology Licensing Boards (coordinated by ASPPB)

Type: Government Regulatory Body (State-Level Statutory Authorities)

Scope: State/Provincial (50 states + DC, territories)

Website: https://asppb.net/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Federal Structure Note

Protected Titles (Typical)

• Psychologist
• Licensed Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Counselling Psychologist
• School Psychologist
• (Titles vary by state)

Registration Requirements (Typical Standards)

• Education: Doctoral degree in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) from accredited institution
• Supervised Practice: 1,500-2,000 hours of supervised experience (typically 1-2 years postdoctoral)
• Examination: Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) Parts 1 & 2; some states require jurisprudence exam
• CPD: Varies by state; typically 20-40 hours per renewal cycle (every 1-2 years)

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Limited interstate mobility through PSYPACT (Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact)
• Partner States: 38 states participate in PSYPACT as of 2025
• Assessment Pathway: ASPPB E.Passport facilitates license portability for US-licensed psychologists; international applicants assessed by individual state boards

Governing Legislation

• State-specific psychology practice acts (varies by jurisdiction)
• Federal: No overarching federal regulation

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Assessment, diagnosis, treatment of mental disorders, psychotherapy, psychological testing, consultation, research
• Restricted Activities: Varies by state; some states have specific scope definitions
• Prescribing Rights: Limited to New Mexico, Louisiana, Illinois, Iowa, Idaho (with additional training and certification)

Canada - Provincial Regulatory Colleges

Official Name: Provincial/Territorial Psychology Regulatory Bodies (Example: College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario - CPBAO)

Type: Government Regulatory Body (Provincial/Territorial Statutory Authorities)

Scope: Provincial/Territorial (13 provinces and territories)

Website (Example): https://cpbao.ca/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Federal Structure Note

Protected Titles (Ontario Example)

• Psychologist
• Psychological Associate
• Registered Psychologist
• (Titles vary by province)

Registration Requirements (Ontario Example)

• Education: Doctoral degree in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) for Psychologist; Master's degree for Psychological Associate
• Supervised Practice: Typically 1,600 hours over minimum 1 year for supervised practice registration
• Examination: EPPP Part 1 and Part 2 required for psychologists; provincial jurisprudence exams
• CPD: Mandatory continuing education; varies by province

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Limited interprovincial mobility through Canadian Free Trade Agreement
• Partner Provinces: Agreement for Labor Mobility applies across Canada
• Assessment Pathway: ASPPB E.Passport accepted in most provinces; some require additional provincial requirements

Governing Legislation (Ontario Example)

• Psychology and Applied Behaviour Analysis Act, 2021 (Ontario)
• Registration Regulation 193/23
• (Each province has its own governing act)

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychological assessment, diagnosis, treatment, psychotherapy, psychological testing, consultation
• Restricted Activities: Communication of diagnosis, treatment of psychological disorders
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists in Canada

Australia - AHPRA/Psychology Board

Official Name: Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) under Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

Type: Government Regulatory Body (National Statutory Authority)

Scope: National (all states and territories)

Website: https://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Psychologist
• Registered Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Clinical Neuropsychologist
• Community Psychologist
• Counselling Psychologist
• Educational and Developmental Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Health Psychologist
• Organisational Psychologist
• Sport and Exercise Psychologist

Registration Requirements

• Education: Minimum 6-year sequence: 4-year accredited undergraduate + 2-year Master's/Doctorate OR 5-year undergraduate + 1-year internship
• Supervised Practice: Minimum 1 year (1,500 hours) supervised practice under provisional registration
• Examination: National Psychology Exam required for general registration
• CPD: Minimum 30 hours per year continuing professional development

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition with New Zealand
• Partner Countries: New Zealand (TTMRA)
• Assessment Pathway: International applicants assessed through Board's overseas qualification pathway; may require supervised practice or bridging programs

Governing Legislation

• Health Practitioner Regulation National Law Act 2009
• Psychology Board registration standards

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychological assessment, diagnosis, intervention, therapy, psychological testing, research, consultation
• Restricted Activities: Use of protected titles; some areas of specialised practice require endorsement
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists

New Zealand - NZPB

Official Name: Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa | New Zealand Psychologists Board (NZPB)

Type: Government Regulatory Body (National Statutory Authority)

Scope: National

Website: https://psychologistsboard.org.nz/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Psychologist
• (Proposed: Assistant/Associate Psychologist - under consultation as of 2025)

Registration Requirements

• Education: Minimum 6 years: 4-year undergraduate + 2-year Master's (or equivalent postgraduate qualification) in psychology
• Supervised Practice: Minimum 1,500 hours supervised practice over at least 1 year
• Examination: No separate national examination; competency assessed through supervised practice
• CPD: Mandatory continuing competence program

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition with Australia
• Partner Countries: Australia (TTMRA)
• Assessment Pathway: Overseas-trained psychologists assessed for equivalence; typically require supervised practice period in New Zealand; IELTS 7.5 required for non-native English speakers

Governing Legislation

• Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 (HPCA Act)
• Secondary legislation available at Board website

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychological assessment, diagnosis, intervention, therapy, consultation, research
• Restricted Activities: Use of "psychologist" title restricted to registrants
• Supervision Requirements: Various scopes of practice defined by Board
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists

Ireland - CORU Psychologists Registration Board

Official Name: CORU - Psychologists Registration Board

Type: Government Regulatory Body (National Statutory Authority - Registration Pending)

Scope: National

Website: https://www.coru.ie/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles (To Be Protected)

• Clinical Psychologist
• Counselling Psychologist
• Educational Psychologist
• (General Psychologist register to follow in Phase 2)

Current Status

Registration Requirements (Draft - Pending Implementation)

• Education: Doctoral-level qualification in relevant psychology specialty (Clinical, Counselling, or Educational)
• Supervised Practice: Integrated within training programs; specific hours to be confirmed
• Examination: Assessment through approved education programs
• CPD: Requirements to be specified when register opens

Anticipated Opening

• Phase 1: Registration for Clinical, Counselling, and Educational Psychologists expected to open early 2026 (delayed from October 2025 target)
• Phase 2: General Psychologist register for other specialties to follow

Mutual Recognition

• Status: To be determined when registration opens
• Partner Countries: Expected to align with EU directives
• Assessment Pathway: To be determined

Governing Legislation

• Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005 (establishes CORU)
• Registration Board Bye-Laws (in development)
• Standards of Proficiency published for three specialties

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: To be defined in Standards of Proficiency
• Restricted Activities: Use of protected titles once registration opens
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists

Tier B Countries: Detailed Findings

South Africa - HPCSA

Official Name: Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) - Professional Board for Psychology

Type: Government Regulatory Body (National Statutory Authority)

Scope: National

Website: https://www.hpcsa.co.za/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Psychologist (categories below)
• Intern Psychologist
• Student Psychologist
• Registered Counsellor
• Psychometrist
• Student Psychometrist
• Student Registered Counsellor

Categories of Registration for Psychologists

• Clinical Psychology (PS1)
• Counselling Psychology (PS2)
• Educational Psychology (PS3)
• Industrial Psychology (PS4)
• Neuropsychology (PS5)
• Research Psychology (PS6)

Registration Requirements

• Education: Master's degree in respective psychology specialty from accredited program
• Supervised Practice: Minimum 1-year internship (minimum 1,500 hours) for psychologists; 6-month internship for psychometrists and registered counsellors
• Examination: Professional Board Examination required for all categories after internship
• CPD: Mandatory continuing professional development; 30 CEU points per year

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Partial recognition with some countries
• Partner Countries: Limited formal agreements
• Assessment Pathway: Foreign-trained practitioners assessed individually; typically require South African internship and board examination

Governing Legislation

• Health Professions Act No. 56 of 1974 (as amended)
• Regulations relating to the Constitution of the Professional Board for Psychology (R1249, 28 November 2008)

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychological assessment, diagnosis, intervention, therapy, counselling, psychometric testing (varies by category)
• Restricted Activities: Each category has defined scope; practising outside scope prohibited
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists

Singapore - AHPC (Pending Psychology Registration)

Official Name: Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC) - Psychology Registration Pending

Type: Government Regulatory Body (National Statutory Authority - Registration Pending)

Scope: National

Website: https://www.ahpc.gov.sg/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Current Status

Protected Titles (To Be Protected)

• Psychologist (pending implementation)
• Clinical Psychologist (likely)

Anticipated Registration Requirements

• Education: Master's or Doctoral degree in psychology (specific requirements to be announced)
• Supervised Practice: To be determined
• Examination: To be determined
• CPD: Likely to follow AHPC standards for other professions

Voluntary Registration (Current)

• Master's or Doctoral degree in psychology
• Not mandatory for practice
• No legal protection of title currently

Mutual Recognition

• Status: To be determined when registration implemented
• Partner Countries: TBD
• Assessment Pathway: To be determined

Governing Legislation

• Allied Health Professions Act (psychology to be added)
• Allied Health Professions (Registration and Practising Certificates) Regulations

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: To be defined when registration opens
• Restricted Activities: Currently none; title protection to be implemented
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists

Japan - Japanese Certification Board for Clinical Psychologists

Official Name: Japanese Certification Board for Clinical Psychologists

Type: Professional Certification Body (with Government Recognition)

Scope: National

Website: https://psych.or.jp/ (Japanese Psychological Association)

Confidence: ⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Certified Clinical Psychologist (臨床心理士) - professional certification, not statutory protection
• National Psychologist (公認心理師) - government-recognised license (est. 2017)

Registration Requirements

• Education: Master's degree from accredited graduate program
• Supervised Practice: Integrated within graduate training
• Examination: Certification examination by Japanese Certification Board
• CPD: Ongoing continuing education

For National Psychologist (Government License - established 2017):

• Education: Bachelor's + specified curriculum OR Master's degree in psychology
• Supervised Practice: Supervised practical experience required
• Examination: National examination administered by government
• CPD: Requirements established

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Limited international recognition
• Partner Countries: None formally
• Assessment Pathway: Foreign-trained practitioners face significant barriers; Japanese language proficiency and Japanese degree typically required

Governing Legislation

• Law concerning Public Psychologists (公認心理師法) - enacted 2017 for National Psychologist license
• Professional certification governed by Japanese Certification Board (established 1988)

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychological assessment, counselling, psychotherapy, consultation
• Restricted Activities: Use of "National Psychologist" title restricted (since 2017); professional certification titles not legally protected
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists

South Korea - Korean Psychological Association

Official Name: Korean Psychological Association (KPA) / Korean Clinical Psychology Association

Type: Professional Association (Private Certification)

Scope: National

Website: https://www.koreanpsychology.or.kr/

Confidence: ⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Clinical Psychologist (임상심리사) - private certification, NOT statutory protection
• Counseling Psychologist
• (No government-protected titles for psychologists in South Korea)

Current Regulatory Status

Registration Requirements (KPA Private Certification)

• Education: Master's or Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology
• Supervised Practice: Varies by certification level
• Examination: KPA certification examination
• CPD: Continuing education for membership maintenance

Mental Health Professional Recognition

• Mental Health Clinical Psychologist (정신건강임상심리사) - government recognition under Mental Health Act
• Requires separate qualification process

Mutual Recognition

• Status: None (no statutory regulation)
• Partner Countries: None
• Assessment Pathway: N/A for statutory practice; professional associations may assess credentials

Governing Legislation

• Mental Health Clinicians Act (for mental health clinical psychologists only)
• No specific psychology practice act for general psychologists

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Not legally defined; psychological assessment, counseling, therapy in practice
• Restricted Activities: None for general psychologists; Mental Health Clinical Psychologists have defined scope under Mental Health Act
• Prescribing Rights: None

Source & Verification

• Source: https://www.koreanpsychology.or.kr/ and https://appa-psy.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Regulation-in-Korea-Dr-Kee.pdf
• Notes: ⚠️ Urgent need for statutory regulation identified by KPA. Current system relies on private professional certifications. Treatment and working conditions for psychologists noted as poor relative to training requirements. Some standardization exists through Mental Health Clinicians Act but limited to specific practice contexts.

Germany - Federal Licensing System

Official Name: State Licensing Authorities for Psychotherapists (Approbation System)

Type: Government Regulatory Body (Federal/State System)

Scope: National (implemented at state level)

Website: Federal information available through state health ministries

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Psychotherapeut (Psychotherapist) - statutory protection
• Psychologischer Psychotherapeut (Psychological Psychotherapist) - statutory protection
• Psychologe (Psychologist) - protected, requires Master's degree or Diplom

Registration Requirements

• Education: Master's degree or Diplom in Psychology (minimum for "Psychologist" title); 5-year university program in Psychotherapy for statutory Approbation
• Supervised Practice: Minimum 1,800 hours clinical practice during training for Approbation
• Examination: State examination (Approbation examination)
• CPD: Mandatory continuing education to maintain license

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Full MRA with EU/EEA countries under EU Directive 2005/36/EC
• Partner Countries: EU/EEA member states
• Assessment Pathway: EU/EEA qualifications assessed for equivalence; non-EU requires assessment and often additional training/examination

Governing Legislation

• Psychotherapeutengesetz (Psychotherapists Act) - reformed 2020
• Approbationsordnung (Licensing Regulations)
• Federal structure: implemented by individual German states (Länder)

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychotherapy, psychological assessment, diagnosis of mental disorders (for licensed Psychotherapists)
• Restricted Activities: Practice of psychotherapy requires Approbation; "Psychologist" title requires Master's/Diplom but doesn't grant therapeutic practice rights
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists/psychotherapists

Source & Verification

• Source: https://www.bdp-verband.de/ (German Professional Association) and state licensing authorities
• Notes: Germany distinguishes between "Psychologist" (academic title) and "Psychotherapist" (licensed practitioner). 2020 reform created direct-entry university psychotherapy programs. Approbation valid throughout Federal Republic of Germany.

France - ADELI Registration

Official Name: Ministry of Health ADELI Registration System

Type: Government Registration System (Title Protection)

Scope: National

Website: Administered by Regional Health Agencies (ARS)

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Psychologue (Psychologist) - statutory protection since 1985
• Psychothérapeute (Psychotherapist) - statutory protection since 2010

Registration Requirements

• Education: Master's degree (Master 2) in Psychology from accredited French university OR recognized foreign equivalent
• Supervised Practice: Minimum 500 hours clinical practice integrated in Master's program
• Examination: No separate national exam; qualification through degree
• Registration: Mandatory ADELI registration through Regional Health Agency (ARS)

For "Psychothérapeute" Title:

• Additional requirements beyond psychologist qualification
• Specific training in psychotherapy
• Registration in national directory

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Full MRA with EU/EEA countries
• Partner Countries: EU/EEA member states
• Assessment Pathway: EU/EEA degrees assessed for equivalence; non-EU qualifications require validation by higher education commission

Governing Legislation

• Law No. 85-772 of July 25, 1985 (protecting "Psychologue" title)
• Decree No. 90-255 of March 22, 1990 (ADELI registration)
• Law of 2010 (protecting "Psychothérapeute" title)

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychological assessment, counseling, psychotherapy, psychological testing, research
• Restricted Activities: Use of protected titles; practice of psychology not restricted but title use is
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists

Source & Verification

• Source: Ministry of Health ADELI system and professional associations
• Notes: ADELI (Automatisation Des Listes) is national registry for health professionals. Title "Psychologue" protected since 1985. Professional Code of Ethics exists but practice itself (vs. title) not restricted. Approximately 70,000 registered psychologists in France.

European Union - EuroPsy Framework

Official Name: European Federation of Psychologists' Associations (EFPA) - EuroPsy Certificate

Type: Professional Certification (Not Statutory)

Scope: European (42 countries through EFPA member associations)

Website: https://www.efpa.eu/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

EuroPsy Framework

Protected Titles

• EuroPsy (professional designation, not legally protected)
• EuroPsy Specialist (in designated specialties)

EuroPsy Requirements

• Education: Master's degree in psychology (minimum 5 years, 300 ECTS)
• Supervised Practice: Minimum 1 year supervised practice (1,600 hours)
• Examination: Assessment by national EuroPsy awarding committees
• CPD: Continuing professional development required for renewal (every 7 years)

Participating Countries

• All EU member states
• UK, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland
• Turkey, Russia, and other European nations

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Professional certification facilitates recognition across Europe
• Partner Countries: 42 European countries participating in EuroPsy
• Assessment Pathway: EuroPsy holders may have streamlined assessment in participating countries but subject to national statutory requirements

Governing Framework

• EFPA EuroPsy Regulations
• NOT statutory law; voluntary professional certification
• Each country maintains own statutory regulation

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Defined by individual country statutory regulations
• Restricted Activities: Defined by national law, not by EuroPsy
• Prescribing Rights: Defined by national law

Source & Verification

• Source: https://www.efpa.eu/europsy
• Notes: ⚠️ EuroPsy is professional certification, NOT statutory regulation. It provides European benchmark for mobility and quality assurance but does not replace national licensing/registration requirements. As of 2025, over 25,000 EuroPsy certificates issued. Individual EU countries maintain separate statutory systems.

Tier C Countries: Detailed Findings

Brazil - CFP (Conselho Federal de Psicologia)

Official Name: Conselho Federal de Psicologia (Federal Council of Psychology)

Type: Government Regulatory Body (National Statutory Authority)

Scope: National (with Regional Councils - CRPs in each state)

Website: http://site.cfp.org.br/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Psicólogo/Psicóloga (Psychologist)
• Especialista (Specialist) - for registered specialties

Registration Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree (Licenciatura or Bacharelado) in Psychology from recognized institution (typically 5 years)
• Supervised Practice: Minimum 10% of curriculum (approximately 500 hours) practical training/internship
• Examination: No separate national examination; qualification through degree
• Registration: Mandatory registration with Regional Psychology Council (CRP) in state of practice
• CPD: Continuing education encouraged; specialist registration requires additional credentials

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Limited international recognition
• Partner Countries: Limited formal agreements
• Assessment Pathway: Foreign degrees must be validated (revalidated) by Brazilian public universities; foreign psychologists typically must complete validation process

Governing Legislation

• Federal Law No. 4.119/1962 (regulating psychology profession - 60th anniversary in 2022)
• Federal Law No. 5.766/1971 (establishing Federal and Regional Councils)
• CFP Resolutions (Código de Ética and other regulations)

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychological assessment, diagnosis, intervention, psychotherapy, psychological testing, consultation, research
• Restricted Activities: Use of "Psychologist" title and practice of psychology restricted to CFP registrants
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists

Source & Verification

• Source: http://site.cfp.org.br/
• Notes: Brazil has strong statutory regulation with mandatory registration. As of 2022, approximately 553,057 psychologists registered nationwide. CFP oversees 23 Regional Councils (CRPs). Psychology profession celebrated 60 years of regulation in 2022. National Registry available at https://cadastro.cfp.org.br/.

Mexico - Cédula Profesional System

Official Name: Secretaría de Educación Pública (Ministry of Public Education) - Professional Licensing

Type: Government Licensing System (National)

Scope: National

Website: https://www.gob.mx/sep

Confidence: ⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Psicólogo/Psicóloga (Psychologist) - requires Cédula Profesional

Registration Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree (Licenciatura) in Psychology from recognized institution (typically 4-5 years)
• Supervised Practice: Social service (Servicio Social) - 480 hours minimum required for graduation
• Examination: Professional examination (Examen Profesional) or thesis defense for degree completion
• Cédula Profesional: Mandatory professional license issued by SEP for legal practice
• CPD: Not systematically regulated at national level

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Limited formal international agreements
• Partner Countries: Limited recognition
• Assessment Pathway: Foreign degrees must be revalidated by SEP; often requires additional coursework or examinations

Governing Legislation

• General Law of Professions (Ley General de Profesiones)
• Article 5 of Mexican Constitution (right to practice profession)
• Administered by Ministry of Public Education (SEP)

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychological assessment, therapy, counseling, testing, consultation (scope varies and not tightly defined)
• Restricted Activities: Practice without Cédula Profesional is illegal
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists

Source & Verification

• Source: SEP and professional association sources
• Notes: ⚠️ While Cédula Profesional is required, enforcement varies by region. No single national psychology regulatory board; regulation through general professional licensing system. Professional associations (e.g., Sociedad Mexicana de Psicología) exist but are voluntary. Some states may have additional requirements.

Argentina - Provincial Regulation

Official Name: Provincial Psychology Councils (Example: Buenos Aires, Córdoba, etc.)

Type: Government Regulatory Body (Provincial System)

Scope: Provincial (23 provinces + Buenos Aires)

Website (Example): Provincial college websites (varies)

Confidence: ⭐⭐

Federal Structure Note

Protected Titles (Typical)

• Psicólogo/Psicóloga (Psychologist)
• Licenciado/Licenciada en Psicología

Registration Requirements (General Pattern)

• Education: Bachelor's degree (Licenciatura) in Psychology from recognized Argentine university (typically 5-6 years)
• Supervised Practice: Varies by province; some require post-degree supervised practice
• Examination: Degree examination/thesis defense
• Registration: Mandatory registration (matrícula) with provincial psychology college
• CPD: Varies by province

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Interprovincial recognition generally exists within Argentina
• Partner Countries: Limited formal international recognition
• Assessment Pathway: Foreign degrees must be validated by Argentine universities; additional coursework often required

Governing Legislation

• Provincial laws governing psychology practice (varies by province)
• National: Law 23.277 (recognition of psychology as health profession, 1985)
• Each province has own regulatory framework

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychological assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy, counseling, testing, consultation
• Restricted Activities: Practice of psychology and use of title restricted to registered professionals
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists

Source & Verification

• Source: Provincial psychology college websites and Federation of Psychologists of Argentina (FePRA)
• Notes: ⚠️ Argentina has one of world's highest ratios of psychologists per capita. Provincial structure means requirements and regulations vary. Buenos Aires and Córdoba are major centers with largest psychology populations. FePRA (Federación de Psicólogos de la República Argentina) coordinates provincial colleges but doesn't regulate directly.

India - RCI (Rehabilitation Council of India)

Official Name: Rehabilitation Council of India (A Statutory Body of Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment)

Type: Government Regulatory Body (National Statutory Authority - Limited Scope)

Scope: National (limited to rehabilitation professions)

Website: https://rehabcouncil.nic.in/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles (Under RCI)

• Rehabilitation Psychologist (when registered with RCI)
• Clinical Psychologist (when registered with RCI for rehabilitation purposes)

Current Regulatory Status

Registration Requirements (RCI)

• Education: M.Phil in Clinical Psychology OR Master's degree in Rehabilitation Psychology OR recognized equivalent
• Supervised Practice: Minimum 1,080 hours supervised clinical work (for M.Phil Clinical Psychology)
• Examination: Degree examination
• Registration: Registration through Central Rehabilitation Register (CRR) online portal
• CPD: Continuing Rehabilitation Education (CRE) required

Mutual Recognition

• Status: Limited international recognition
• Partner Countries: None formally
• Assessment Pathway: Foreign qualifications assessed individually; Indian degree typically required

Governing Legislation

• Rehabilitation Council of India Act, 1992 (enacted by Parliament, statutory body since June 22, 1993)
• Amended 2000 to broaden scope
• Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (provides framework)

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Psychological assessment, rehabilitation counselling, therapy in rehabilitation settings (for RCI registrants)
• Restricted Activities: Use of "Rehabilitation Psychologist" title for RCI registrants; general psychology practice not restricted
• Prescribing Rights: None for psychologists

Source & Verification

• Source: https://rehabcouncil.nic.in/
• Notes: ⚠️ RCI provides only limited statutory protection for psychologists in rehabilitation settings. General clinical psychology, counselling psychology, and other psychology specialties NOT comprehensively regulated at national level in India. NCAHP (National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions) intended to provide broader regulation but implementation pending. Private practice and clinical psychology outside rehabilitation context remain largely unregulated.

China - National Certification System

Official Name: Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (for National Psychologist certification)

Type: Government Certification System

Scope: National

Website: National certification information through government portals

Confidence: ⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• National Psychologist (国家心理咨询师) - until 2018; no longer issued
• (Currently NO nationally protected titles for new practitioners)

Current Regulatory Status

Historical Certification (Pre-2018)

• Education: Various levels; ranging from vocational training to university degrees
• Examination: National examination (discontinued)
• Registration: Previous holders of certificates grandfathered but no new certifications issued

Current Situation

• Professional associations and private organisations offer non-governmental certifications
• No statutory protection of titles
• No legal requirement for psychological practice
• Clinical psychologists in medical settings may be regulated as healthcare workers

Mutual Recognition

• Status: None (no active statutory system)
• Partner Countries: None
• Assessment Pathway: N/A

Governing Legislation

• Mental Health Law of the People's Republic of China, 2013 (general mental health framework)
• No specific psychology practice act currently in force

Scope of Practice

• Core Activities: Not legally defined; no statutory scope restrictions
• Restricted Activities: None for general psychology practice
• Prescribing Rights: None

Cross-Cutting Analysis

Regulatory Models Identified

Model 1: National Statutory Regulation (8 countries)

• Single national regulatory body or unified framework
• Statutory protection of titles
• Consistent standards across jurisdiction
• Government-mandated registration/licensing

Model 2: Federal/Provincial Systems (3 countries)

• Regulation at state/provincial level
• Coordination through national associations
• Variable requirements by jurisdiction
• Generally aligned through professional standards

Model 3: Emerging Regulation (2 countries)

• Statutory framework established but not yet operational
• Registration expected to open 2025-2026
• Standards and requirements being finalised

Model 4: Professional Certification (2 countries)

• Primary regulation through professional associations
• Government recognition varies (Japan has newer statutory license)
• Voluntary certification systems
• Limited statutory protection

Model 5: Regulatory Gap (2 countries)

• Limited or no statutory regulation
• Professional practice largely unregulated
• Title protection absent or limited
• Represents significant regulatory deficit

Common Requirements Across Jurisdictions

Education

• Minimum: Master's degree (most common)
• Preferred: Doctoral degree for independent practice (USA, Canada, some EU countries)
• Duration: Typically 5-6 years total (undergraduate + postgraduate)

Supervised Practice

• Duration: 1-2 years post-graduation
• Hours: 1,500-2,000 hours typical
• Structure: Supervised by registered psychologist
• Integration: Often part of graduate training or separate internship

Examinations

• Common: EPPP (USA, Canada)
• National Exams: Australia, South Africa, Germany
• Alternative: Assessment through approved programs (UK, many EU countries)
• Jurisprudence: Many jurisdictions add local/national law examination

Continuing Professional Development

• Requirement: Mandatory in most regulated jurisdictions
• Duration: 20-40 hours per year or 2-year cycle typical
• Audit: Many jurisdictions audit CPD compliance
• Content: Clinical updates, ethics, specialised areas

Protected Titles Analysis

• Psychologist (universal in regulated jurisdictions)
• Clinical Psychologist (specialty protection common)
• Registered Psychologist
• Counselling/Counseling Psychologist
• Educational Psychologist

Specialty Titles Protected in Some Jurisdictions:

• Forensic Psychologist
• Health Psychologist
• Neuropsychologist
• Industrial/Organisational Psychologist
• Sport and Exercise Psychologist

Mutual Recognition Patterns

Strong Recognition Frameworks:

• EU/EEA: Professional Qualifications Directive (2005/36/EC)
• Trans-Tasman: Australia-New Zealand Mutual Recognition
• ASPPB E.Passport: Facilitates USA-Canada mobility

Limited Recognition:

• Most countries require assessment of foreign qualifications
• Supervised practice often required for international applicants
• Language proficiency requirements common (IELTS, local language)

Barriers to International Mobility:

• Degree revalidation requirements (common in Latin America)
• Cultural/contextual knowledge requirements
• Local language proficiency
• Additional training or examinations

Sources Index

Tier A Countries

• Official Website: https://www.hcpc-uk.org/
• Legislation: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2002/254
• GOV.UK Regulated Professions: https://www.regulated-professions.service.gov.uk/
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official government sources

2. United States - ASPPB

• Official Website: https://asppb.net/
• PSY|Book Directory: https://asppb.net/licensure/
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official coordinating body for state boards

3. Canada - Provincial Boards

• Example: CPBAO: https://cpbao.ca/
• Legislation: Psychology and Applied Behaviour Analysis Act, 2021 (Ontario)
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official provincial regulatory body

4. Australia - AHPRA/PsyBA

• Official Website: https://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/
• AHPRA: https://www.ahpra.gov.au/
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official national regulatory authority

5. New Zealand - NZPB

• Official Website: https://psychologistsboard.org.nz/
• Legislation: Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official regulatory board

6. Ireland - CORU

• Official Website: https://www.coru.ie/
• Psychologists Registration Board: https://www.coru.ie/about-us/registration-boards/psychologists-registration-board/
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official government regulatory body

Tier B Countries

• Official Website: https://www.hpcsa.co.za/
• Psychology Board: https://www.hpcsa.co.za/board/psychology
• Legislation: Health Professions Act No. 56 of 1974
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official statutory council

8. Singapore - AHPC

• Official Website: https://www.ahpc.gov.sg/
• MOH Announcements: Ministry of Health press releases (March 2025)
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official government authority

9. Japan - Certification Board

• Japanese Psychological Association: https://psych.or.jp/english/
• Secondary sources on National Psychologist law (2017)
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐ Medium - Professional association and secondary sources

10. South Korea - KPA

• Korean Psychological Association: https://www.koreanpsychology.or.kr/
• APPA Research Paper: https://appa-psy.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Regulation-in-Korea-Dr-Kee.pdf
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐ Medium - Professional association sources

11. Germany - Licensing System

• Federal Ministry information
• German Professional Association: https://www.bdp-verband.de/
• Psychotherapeutengesetz (2020 reform)
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official government framework

12. France - ADELI System

• Ministry of Health ADELI registration system
• Law No. 85-772 (July 25, 1985)
• Regional Health Agency (ARS) information
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official government system

13. European Union - EuroPsy

• EFPA Official Website: https://www.efpa.eu/
• EuroPsy Certificate Information: https://www.efpa.eu/europsy
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official professional certification body

Tier C Countries

• Official Website: http://site.cfp.org.br/
• National Registry: https://cadastro.cfp.org.br/
• Federal Law No. 4.119/1962 and No. 5.766/1971
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official federal regulatory council

15. Mexico - SEP System

• Ministry of Public Education information
• General Law of Professions
• Professional association sources
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐ Medium - Government framework with limited enforcement data

16. Argentina - Provincial Councils

• Federation of Psychologists (FePRA): http://www.fepra.org.ar/
• Provincial psychology college websites
• Law 23.277 (1985)
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐ Medium - Professional federation and provincial sources

17. India - RCI

• Official Website: https://rehabcouncil.nic.in/
• RCI Act, 1992 (amended 2000)
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐⭐ High - Official statutory body

18. China - Discontinued System

• Secondary sources on discontinued certification (2018)
• Mental Health Law of PRC (2013)
• Professional reports
• Verified: 2025-10-20
• Reliability: ⭐⭐ Medium - Secondary sources (no active official system)

For Questions or Updates: This report represents a snapshot of regulatory frameworks as of 2025-10-20. Regulatory environments change frequently. Always verify current status directly with relevant regulatory bodies before making professional decisions.

Disclaimer: This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Users should consult with regulatory bodies, legal advisors, and credential evaluation services for specific situations.