The Order of Portuguese Psychologists (OPP) has received 207 complaints of usurpation of title since 2021 and, during the first three months of this year, 25 complaints were filed, it was announced today.
The OPP “warns of the dangers of people posing as psychologists who aren’t”, as part of World Health Day, which is being celebrated today.
“It is essential to know if you are consulting a professional who works on the basis of scientific evidence, like psychologists. This distinction is important in the most varied areas in which psychology intervenes”, defended the OPP’s president, Francisco Miranda Rodrigues, quoted in a statement.
To help confirm whether or not there has been a usurpation of functions, the OPP has a directory of psychologists available on its website (https://www.ordemdospsicologos.pt/pt/membros).
“The practice of psychology and the provision of psychological services by unqualified professionals pose a threat to public health and the well-being of citizens. In Portugal, the practice of psychology requires registration with the OPP,” he said.
In the event that anyone looking for a psychologist doesn’t find the name or suspects something, the OPP asks that any doubts be reported to the email address in**@or****************.pt, asking for clarification from the person named in the complaint.
“If these clarifications are not sufficient and there is enough evidence, a complaint is lodged with the Public Prosecutor’s Office and sent to the entity that oversees the legality of healthcare establishments,” he said.
