Sònia Bigordà Returns as President of Andorra Psychologists' College

Sònia Bigordà, a 47-year-old psychologist from La Massana, has returned as president of the Official College of Psychologists of Andorra (COPSIA), resuming a role she previously held in two earlier terms.

In her first comments since taking office, Bigordà emphasised continuity with the previous board's work, focusing on defending the profession, upholding ethical standards and combating unregulated practice, which she described as the sector's biggest threat—not for economic reasons, but because of risks to public health. "People without proper training use psychological terminology without scientific basis," she warned, highlighting dangers from unverified content, particularly on social media.

Bigordà noted significant shifts in mental health awareness since her last tenure: greater public demand, reduced stigma and more openness in discussing emotional distress, though not always severe pathology. "There is sustained emotional suffering that requires a professional response," she said, pointing to rising consultations for anxiety, stress, relational issues and adaptive difficulties, especially among children and adolescents facing school and self-esteem challenges.

While Andorra has qualified psychologists across key specialities—clinical, child and youth, sports, organisational and forensic—highly specialised areas remain limited, particularly in public or subsidised services. Demand has outpaced resources, but CASS-contracted professionals offer quick access, often within three or four days, with no current waiting lists for appointments.

Bigordà welcomed CASS's inclusion of psychological services as a major step forward in accessibility, significantly reducing financial barriers that once deterred patients. She advocated expanding contracted psychologists and session coverage, while stressing sustainability and quality. The college plans to push government and health authorities for stronger structural recognition of mental health, better public access and anti-intrusion measures.

On broader concerns, she linked high living costs, housing pressures and work demands to elevated stress and uncertainty. Suicide figures, though statistically prominent in a small population, demand responsible prevention efforts without alarmism. Schools have improved detection but need better early intervention coordination, especially for youth.

Bigordà affirmed psychotherapy's growing role alongside medication for non-acute distress, and described COPSIA as a technical, dialogic body that must also advocate firmly when needed. Membership fees will remain unchanged.