Karol Nawrocki Decides on Key Legislation for Psychologist Profession

Karol Nawrocki, the President of Poland, has signed a significant piece of legislation regarding the profession of psychology. The new law aims to establish clear standards for psychological services and create effective mechanisms for the oversight of the profession.

Overview of the New Legislation for Psychologists

• The law defines psychological services.
• It outlines the qualifications needed to practice as a psychologist.
• A new register of psychologists will be established for verification purposes.
• A professional council for psychologists will be created under the Ministry of Labor.
• An ethics code for psychologists will also be introduced.

Key Components of the Legislation

The law includes provisions that dictate how psychologist services are to be rendered. Psychologists will be permitted to conduct psychotherapy in accordance with separate regulations. This aspect was a point of contention during parliamentary discussions, leading to the removal of psychotherapy from the list of psychological services initially included in the law.

Training Concerns for Psychologists

Many psychologists expressed their concerns about the potential need for retraining. Those who have completed five years of study followed by four years of specialization and passed a state examination (PES) might now have to learn psychotherapy alongside individuals with unrelated degrees.

Emergency Support Regulations

Under the new statutes, psychologists will be allowed to provide “immediate support” in crises or trauma situations without prior consent from a legal representative for minors or incapacitated individuals. This provision highlights the law’s focus on responsiveness in mental health emergencies.

Legal Context and Background

This legislation seeks to resolve issues stemming from the previous law on the profession of psychology enacted in 2001, which failed to be properly enforced due to a lack of implementing regulations and the absence of a professional council for psychologists. Nawrocki emphasized the critical importance of regulation, underscoring that mental health is a state and international priority.

The signing of this legislation marks a pivotal moment in regulating the psychology profession, ensuring both the protection of mental health services and the integrity of practitioners in Poland.