Kazakhstan tightens rules for practicing psychologists
A new law regulating psychological activity entered into force in Kazakhstan today, Sept. 2. Under the new law, all practicing psychologists must register to provide their services legally.
From now on, unregistered individuals are prohibited from engaging in psychological practice or using the title «psychologist» or related terms. Under the new regulations, only individuals with a university or postgraduate education in psychology, or an academic degree in psychology, are permitted to practice and use the title «psychologist.»
In addition, the legislation now requires that psychological assistance be provided only after the client or their legal representative has given written informed consent. Consent, however, is not required when there are signs of suicidal behavior or in crisis situations or cases involving domestic violence. In such circumstances, psychologists are required to notify the appropriate authorities immediately.
Psychologists are also now required to pursue continuing professional development, although mandatory certification has been postponed until 2028.
What’s changing
- The law of the Republic of Kazakhstan «On Psychological Activity» has entered into force 60 calendar days after its official publication.
- A mandatory state registry of psychologists has been launched on the National Qualifications System’s digital platform.
- Individuals who are not included in the state registry are now explicitly prohibited from practicing psychology or using the title «psychologist.»
- Clients must provide informed consent before receiving psychological assistance.
- Practicing specialists are required to undergo continuing professional education at least once every five years.
Why is it important?
For the first time in its history, Kazakhstan has introduced comprehensive regulation of psychological services. Practitioners are now required to adapt their work to the new legal requirements, while citizens receive greater legal protection against unqualified services and fraudulent practices.
Context
Kazakhstan is seeking to bring greater oversight to the psychological services sector and eliminate questionable practices from the market. The Ministry of Labor has already developed a set of rules, or a Code of Ethics, that will be mandatory for all legally practicing psychologists.
In July, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the law «On Psychological Activity.» The legislation introduces new requirements, including a professional standard that defines the qualifications, competencies and level of training required of psychologists.
A certification system for psychologists is one of the law’s key provisions. It will enable assessment of whether specialists meet the established professional requirements. The legislation also provides for the creation of a state registry of psychologists.
The legislation aims to address what President Tokayev has described as the uncontrolled growth in the number of «false psychologists» and «coaches» and to introduce stricter oversight of the sector.
