FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
10th June 2026

The IACP Calls on Government to Protect Confidentiality of Therapy Notes in Criminal Justice Bill

The Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy representing 7,000 therapists nationwide, is calling on the Minister for Justice to introduce meaningful, absolute protections for counselling and psychotherapy notes within the Criminal Law, Civil Law and Defence (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026, currently at Report and Final Stages in the Dáil. 

While the IACP welcomes positive proposals within the Bill, specifically the removal of the Section 19A(17) waiver, tighter judicial gatekeeping, and mandatory legal aid for survivors facing disclosure applications, relying on judicial discretion does not go far enough. Standing with advocates including the IACP’s Public Inspiration Award recipient Paula Doyle, professional bodies, and mental health professionals, the IACP upholds that the current use of therapy notes in sexual violence cases is causing profound harm. Frontline members report that survivors are routinely self-censoring in sessions or avoiding professional therapeutic support entirely out of fear that their most personal disclosures will be exposed in court.  

IACP Chief Executive Officer Lisa Molloy noted:

"Therapy must remain an absolute, confidential sanctuary. The IACP is ready to engage constructively with the Government as the Bill progresses into the Seanad to secure robust amendments that ensure counselling spaces remain entirely protected, client-centred, and safe for all those seeking support."

Ends.

Notes to the Editor:
Link to the IACP Public Inspiration Award press release: https://iacp.ie/page/5026
For further information or to arrange an interview please contact the IACP Communications Department at communications@iacp.ie
Nicole Mac Dermott, Communications Supervisor - 087 720 6033
Wayne Tobin, Communications Officer - 089 214 2276

About the IACP:
The IACP was established in 1981 to identify, develop and maintain professional standards of excellence in counselling and psychotherapy. Our work promotes best practice and the development of the profession. The IACP represents 7,000 members based in communities all over the country and is the largest counselling and psychotherapy association in Ireland. The IACP is dedicated to promoting the value of professional therapy and enhancing mental health throughout Ireland. For more information please visit www.iacp.ie