Psychotherapy in Slovenia Today and Tomorrow

Abstract

According to current assessments, Slovenia lags behind other more developed countries on the provisi­on of psychotherapy. This article emphasizes the meaning of the Psychotherapy Bill, paying particular attention to the areas and extent of psychotherapy practice; academic (where I emphasize the innovative project of providing psychotherapy study straight after maturational exams) and informal education and training in psychotherapy; the number, structure and qualifications of practicing psychotherapists; diffe­rent ways of obtaining the professional title; the availability and price of psychotherapy; publications, professional meetings, foundations and research. This article also talks about the necessary developments for psychotherapy in Slovenia in the near future, particularly the Psychotherapy Bill which will provide professional regulation; integration of psychotherapy with the national health system, into primary, secon­dary and tertiary prevention; integration of psychotherapy education and training with the academic world. I conclude the article with an appeal to all Slovene psychotherapists to support the Psychotherapy Bill and to support psychotherapy in becoming an autonomous profession and academic discipline.