Press Release
New strategy sets out roadmap to strengthen the profession, support members and enhance the role of counselling and psychotherapy in Ireland

Wednesday, 22nd July 2026: Minister of State with responsibility for Mental Health, Mary Butler TD, today launched the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy's (IACP) Strategic Plan 2026–2030, setting out a clear vision for the future of the counselling and psychotherapy profession in Ireland.

As Ireland's largest professional body for counsellors and psychotherapists, the IACP plays a central role in supporting practitioners, promoting professional standards and advocating for the vital contribution counselling and psychotherapy make to the mental health and wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities across Ireland.

The new Strategic Plan provides a framework for the organisation over the next five years, focusing on strengthening our foundations while positioning the IACP to respond to the evolving needs of members, clients, and the wider healthcare landscape.

Speaking at the launch of the strategy, Minister of State with responsibility for Mental Health Mary Butler said: “I am pleased to launch the IACP Strategic Plan 2026-2030 which sets out a clear and ambitious vision for the future of counselling and psychotherapy in Ireland. As demand for mental health supports continues to grow, it is essential that we have strong professional bodies supporting practitioners and promoting high standards of care.”

The IACP’s Chief Executive Officer Lisa Molloy added: "This strategy represents an important milestone for IACP and the professions as a whole. It reflects our commitment to supporting members, strengthening professional standards and ensuring counselling and psychotherapy continue to play a vital role in meeting Ireland's mental health needs. Over the next five years, we will focus on building the partnerships, capacity, and influence required to create lasting positive change for our members, the professions, and the public."

The strategy is built around three interconnected strategic pillars:

• Strengthening member value and professional community
• Building organisational capacity to support members and the profession
• Enhancing professional standing and organisational positioning

The plan places a strong emphasis on preparation and positioning, advancing the credibility of the profession, developing a resilient and sustainable organisation, and fostering collaborative partnerships that will enable impactful advocacy and long-term growth.

Read the full Strategic Plan 2026-2030 here: https://iacp.ie/Strategic-Plan-2026-2030

ENDS