# How do I start a private counselling practice in Kenya?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/how-do-i-start-a-private-counselling-practice-in-kenya
For: Clinicians | Clinic operations | Last reviewed 8 November 2026

**Answer:** Register with the Counsellors and Psychologists Board and hold a valid practising licence before seeing clients. Then register your business, get the county permits you need, and register with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner if you process health data. Set up secure records, a consent form, clear fees in KES and a simple booking process, and arrange regular clinical supervision.

### A starter checklist

Early-career practitioners tell us paid roles are hard to find and many positions are voluntary. Starting a small private practice, even part-time, is one route to building experience and income.

Requirements change, so check the latest guidance from the Counsellors and Psychologists Board and the ODPC. This is general information, not legal advice.

- Register with the Counsellors and Psychologists Board and obtain a practising licence.
- Register a business name and get a KRA PIN and county business permit.
- Register with the ODPC as a data controller where required.
- Prepare intake, consent and confidentiality forms.
- Choose a secure system for notes, bookings and records.
- Arrange regular clinical supervision and professional development.

## More questions

### Can I practise while I wait for my licence?

No. Counsellors and psychologists must be registered and licensed by the Board before practising.

### Do I need an office to start?

Not always. Many practitioners start with online sessions or rent a room by the hour. Make sure any space is private enough for confidential conversations.

## Related reading

- [Healthcare Practice Management: A Clinic Operations Guide](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/blog/healthcare-practice-management-clinic-operations-guide)

## Related questions

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**About Tymira Health:** Tymira Health is a healthcare technology company based in Nairobi, Kenya. It builds Tymira360, a practice management and EHR platform for mental health, physiotherapy and dental providers, clinics, hospitals, NGOs and insurers across Africa.

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