Announcement: Counselling Therapists to be regulated in Alberta under the College of Alberta Psychologists

The Government of Alberta issued an announcement today that the College of Alberta Psychologists has been asked to assume responsibility for the regulation of Counselling Therapists in Alberta. ACTA also received this information today. While it is disappointing that the government will not be proclaiming the CCTA, we understand this decision by the government is in keeping with modern trends in regulation to place similar professions under a single regulatory umbrella to better serve the public. We believe that regulation is a positive step and in the public interest. Moving forward, CAP and ACTA will collaborate to ensure that the public is protected by establishing minimum entry to practice standards, education, related training, competencies, ethical principles and mechanisms for public accountability. This will not only value the work of Counselling Therapists, but will also ensure that the public has a clear understanding of the similarities and differences in scope and identity for both Counselling Therapists and Psychologists. Building on the work that was done through ACTA, over the next several months we will be working collaboratively to identify the next steps to fully realize the regulation of Counselling Therapists under the Health Professions Act. We are committed to continuing to engage with First Nations and stakeholders on this journey.

We recognize this is an unexpected decision that is received with a wide range of emotions by everyone. In the coming days and weeks, ACTA will connect with our members to answer the many questions you have. Please watch for upcoming announcements and town halls. We also ask for your patience as we seek to gain more clarity about the path forward for ACTA and the counselling professions. 

The ACTA Board of Directors and Laura Hahn, CEO & Registrar

Nicole Imgrund, Chair, ACTA
Minister Dan Williams 
Laura Hahn CEO & Registrar, ACTA

Richard Spelliscy, CEO & Registrar, CAP
Nicole Imgrund, Chair, ACTA
Laura Hahn CEO & Registrar, ACTA
Troy Janzen, Complaints Director and Deputy Registrar, CAP