Kuwait has introduced new regulations governing psychotherapy and psychological counselling, including a ban on therapies and practices that lack scientific or evidence-based support.

The framework was issued through Ministerial Decision 225 of 2026 by Kuwait’s Minister of Health, Dr Ahmad Al Awadhi. It establishes requirements for licensing, professional training and the operation of specialised psychological care centres.

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The prohibited practices include energy and spiritual therapies such as Reiki, pranic healing, crystal and stone treatments, as well as practices involving chakras and energy fields. Other restricted methods include neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), law of attraction therapy, graphology, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), colour therapy, frequency-based treatments and thought-field techniques.

Life coaching and self-development services will also require an approved professional licence. The regulations prohibit non-physician practitioners from prescribing or modifying medicines, drugs or supplements. Electroconvulsive therapy and magnetic or nerve stimulation techniques are restricted to specialist doctors.

Practitioners must also urgently refer patients experiencing suicidal thoughts or severe psychological symptoms to a hospital or psychiatrist. Existing facilities seeking licences will have six months to comply, while government-sector facilities have 18 months.

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