Kozhikode: Fed up with the burgeoning number of fake counsellors, Kerala chapter of Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists (IACP) has decided to identify the quacks and bring them before the law.
“Now everyone has some kind of mental problems, and these quacks are making quick bucks. More and more people are becoming their victims,” said Dr E.D Joseph, the founder joint-secretary of Kerala chapter of IACP
According to the guidelines of Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), a clinical psychologist should have MA/MSc in psychology and MPhil in clinical psychology or medical and social psychology and registered with RCI.
But those having BSc psychology and having completed diploma courses are running clinics with the designation as a clinical psychologist. Non-awareness of public regarding a psychiatrist, counselling psychologist and clinical psychologist add to the woes.
“These quacks are releasing a good number of advertisements to attract the gullible people. Students, youth and homemakers are the major preys. The situation had reached a stage where everyone could be a counsellor,” said Dr Sany Varghese, president of the Kerala chapter of IACP.
