The number of psychological sessions quadrupled between March 2020 and January this year, from 5,565 sessions to 22,373 sessions. The supply of psychological care has also increased by 40 percent. In addition, all 32 mental health networks have supported the new scheme and by early February 1,083 psychologists and remedial educationalists had registered to work under the new system. Although that does not change the months-long waiting lists in mental health care at the moment.
Why is that happening so slowly? “This is about a fundamental culture shift,” says Vandenbroucke. He argues for aid that is geared to the needs of the population. Mental health networks have a crucial role to play in this. They must map out the psychological needs of the region. In addition, the networks must look for the ‘vulnerable target groups’ who are at increased risk of developing psychological problems.
Vandenbroucke expects the new system of reimbursed psychological care to reach cruising speed by the summer. “The budget allows for the involvement of 1,500 psychologists on a full-time basis. But in the long run, that number can grow after evaluation,” says Vandenbroucke. Although that is not enough to have everyone go to a psychologist for 11 euros.