Regulatory Framework for and Quality Assurance of Counselling Services

Dr Charlene Chen asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health given the growing demand for counselling services and their impact on individuals' well-being, (a) how the Ministry ensures that counsellors are appropriately trained and qualified, and that organisations offering counselling services meet adequate professional and ethical standards; and (b) whether the Ministry intends to establish or strengthen a regulatory framework for this sector, including oversight mechanisms and sanctions for unprofessional conduct.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: Counsellors work across different sectors, such as health, education and social service. Their scope of competencies vary widely depending on the areas they serve. For example, counsellors in the social service sector attain competencies prescribed in the Skills Framework for Social Service, which is developed by SkillsFuture Singapore and Ministry of Social and Family (MSF) Development in partnership with Ministry of Health (MOH), Ministry of Education and Institutes of Higher Learning. On the other hand, counsellors who also provide mental health counselling develop competencies that are prescribed in the National Mental Health Competency Framework in conjunction with the National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy.

Professional standards can be upheld through several mechanisms. Within the public healthcare system, counsellors are subject to institutional oversight and governance to meet service delivery standards. Within MSF-funded programmes in the social service sector, counsellors are required to meet hiring requirements and undergo clinical supervision and continuous training to enhance their competencies. Beyond this, the Singapore Association of Counselling offers voluntary accreditation and ensures standards and safe practice though professional certification requirements, a code of ethics, and ongoing training and support for their members.

MOH takes a risk-based regulatory approach and regularly assesses the evolving risks of healthcare and mental health services under its oversight, including professionals providing such services and considers additional safeguards where necessary.