# Who can diagnose mental disorders and prescribe psychiatric medication in Kenya?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/who-can-diagnose-mental-disorders-and-prescribe-psychiatric-medication-in-kenya
For: Clinicians | Mental health practice | Reviewed by Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya | Last reviewed 8 November 2026

**Answer:** Psychiatrists and other KMPDC-licensed medical practitioners can diagnose and prescribe within their scope of practice. The Nursing Council's scope allows registered mental health and psychiatric nurses to perform psychiatric diagnostic evaluations and prescribe selected treatments under set guidelines, and the Mental Health Act recognises clinical officers specialising in psychiatry. Counsellors and psychologists do not prescribe medicines. Check each professional's regulator for the exact scope.

Sources: Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council: https://kmpdc.go.ke/resources/scopes_of_practice/2025/KMPDC_Scope_of_Practice_Medical_Practitioners_FINAL.pdf - Nursing Council of Kenya: http://nckenya.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Scope_of-Practice_For_Entry_Level_Programmes_17.08.2020.pdf - Kenya Law: https://new.kenyalaw.org/akn/ke/act/1989/10/eng@2023-12-11

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