Commission for the Future of Counselling and Psychotherapy

UKCP is working in partnership with other professional bodies through the Partnership of Counselling and Psychotherapy Bodies (PCPB) to launch a new independent Commission on the Future of Counselling and Psychotherapy. The commission will examine the current and future landscape of the professions and the key issues affecting the sector, professionals, services and clients, drawing on expert and lived experience, alongside input from the wider PCPB memberships.

The commission’s first evidence session will take place in London on 16 October, followed by further sessions later this year and into 2026, including a focus on all four nations. The process will conclude with a final report, setting out recommendations which will be published and shared with decision-makers and others who influence the delivery and commissioning of counselling and psychotherapy across the UK. It will also be used to set the direction of PCPB’s shared policy work over the coming years.

The commission will be independently chaired by Phil Hope, former Minister of State for Care Services and it will bring together counselling and psychotherapy professional bodies, key providers and clinical experts, decision-makers and those with lived experience.

UKCP will be represented at the sessions by chair Pippa Donovan, supported by the policy and research team. The sessions will explore and discuss:

Counselling and psychotherapy, the state of the sector: setting the scope for the commission. Participants will reflect on the current professional and policy context, as well as the barriers and opportunities around commissioning of counselling and psychotherapy.

Counselling and psychotherapy, is there a case for statutory regulation? Commissioners and experts will review the adequacy of the current regulatory mechanisms for the professions in protecting clients. Additionally, we will explore alternative models and the underpinning principles of statutory enhancement.

Counselling and psychotherapy, the evidence base. Academics and researchers will present the strength of current research and evidence for counselling and psychotherapy. Followed by a discussion on the gaps and priority areas for new research to strengthen the case for investment and wider commissioning.

Counselling and psychotherapy, the future for the professions. The Commission will consider the key issues facing the professions over the next decade, including the emergence of new technologies, counselling and psychotherapy in the global context and our shared vision for the future of the sector.

UKCP chair Pippa Donovan said, ‘I want to highlight the unique value of psychotherapy in society and ensure our profession is ready to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead. This commission is a vital opportunity to show why improving access matters and to share the strong evidence of psychotherapy’s impact.’

Jon Levett, UKCP CEO, said, ‘This commission marks an important moment for counselling and psychotherapy. By working together across the professional bodies, we can develop a clear, collective vision for the future and ensure the voices of practitioners, clients and the wider public are all heard. UKCP is proud to be playing a leading role in this process.’

An open call for evidence in early 2026 will also seek views and input from UKCP members and others who wish to contribute to the process.

The commission’s findings and recommendations will support and shape the direction of future collaborative work between the PCPB and engagement with policymakers and commissioners of services on behalf of the profession, for the benefit of clients.

You can read more about the commission on the PCPB website.