History of the regulation of psychologists in B.C.
Psychology has been a regulated profession under B.C. legislation since 1977. It was regulated under the former Psychologists Act, until it became a designated health profession under the Health Professions Act on January 1, 2000.
As of May 1, 2024 The Minister of Health has approved changes to the Psychologists Regulation under the Health Professions Act (HPA) which bring school psychologists under the regulation of the College of Psychologists of BC.
Psychologists were regulated by the College of Psychologists of BC until June 28, 2024, when the College amalgamated with the College of Dietitians of BC, College of Opticians of BC, College of Optometrists of BC, College of Physical Therapists of BC, College of Occupational Therapists of BC. , and College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC to form the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC.
Approximately 1,500 psychologists are registered in B.C.
Most registered psychologists in British Columbia have completed doctoral-level study and supervised practice experience or the equivalent.