Regulate counsellors and therapists to provide accountability and oversight for the profession in anticipation of including them in the universal mental healthcare system at a later stage.

Answer:

A first step toward incorporating new professions under a mental healthcare system is to introduce provincial regulations for therapists and counsellors by amending the Health Professions Act. Currently, anyone can provide services as a therapist or counsellor, regardless of their training and background. Provincial regulation would increase public protection, accountability, and oversight so anyone who seeks out these services knows they are being treated by a qualified individual who is accountable to a professional body.