Those practicing psychology without proper qualifications were held accountable

The provision of psychological assistance by individuals without the necessary qualifications or failure to comply with established legal restrictions regarding psychological services has been made subject to administrative penalties. This is outlined in the Law "On Provision of Psychological Assistance to the Population," which was adopted on November 5.

The law regulates the provision of psychological assistance to the public. Only individuals with higher education in psychology are authorized to engage in psychological services.

According to the law, psychological assistance aims to prevent and address the consequences of stressful (crisis) situations, improve interpersonal relationships and mental health, foster personal development, and provide psychological support for better social adaptation. It includes a range of measures implemented in accordance with established standards.

Psychological assistance may be offered either free of charge or for a fee, with services provided by psychologists working in state institutions, other organizations, or private legal entities and individual entrepreneurs.

Pre-school, general secondary, and special educational institutions are required to provide psychological support to maintain the mental well-being of students, create a healthy psychological environment, and assist in their personal development.

The law also stipulates that individuals can participate in psychological research or experiments only after giving voluntary written consent, or after obtaining written consent from their legal representatives.

Any information related to a person’s request for psychological assistance, the outcomes of such assistance, and other details gathered during the process is considered confidential, equivalent to medical confidentiality, and must be kept as a professional secret.

The law will come into force three months after its official publication.