The nexus between non-medical psychological counseling and social recognition -
An analysis
By Sandra Neumayr, President of the Association for Psychological Counseling (VpsyB e.V.)
At the heart of the discussion about mental health and mental health counseling outside of the medical profession lies a complex nexus between the professional practice of mental health counseling and the social recognition of this service. Exploring this nexus opens up profound insights into the congruence or discrepancy between professionalism and perception. This article intends to present the facets of this nexus-like relationship with a focus on the implications for the acceptance and integration of psychological counseling in German society.
Deconstruction of the nexus
The core components of this nexus can be identified as a structure between the professionalization of psychological counselling, its scientific legitimacy and social acceptance. A central element is professionalization, which is ensured by academic training structures, continuous further training and ethical codes. It establishes the scientific legitimacy of counseling practice, which manifests itself in evidence-based methods and empirical research. The interface between the two domains forms the core of social acceptance, which in turn leads to the stigmatization or recognition of psychological counselling outside of the medical profession.
Implications for social acceptance
The way in which this nexus is constructed and communicated has a direct influence on the level of recognition that psychological counseling services receive in society. Transparent communication about professionalization and evidence-based practice can reduce prejudice and strengthen the legitimacy of such counselling services. However, a discrepancy between professional practice and social perception carries the risk of marginalization and stigmatization, which potentially inhibits the use of psychological counselling.
Strategies to promote congruence
In order to achieve greater congruence between the professional practice of psychological counseling and social recognition, multifactorial strategies are required. These include
1. education and information
The active dissemination of information about the professionalism, effectiveness and diversity of psychological counseling services outside the medical profession helps to educate society.
2. integration into healthcare communication
By positioning and communicating psychological counseling as an integral part of healthcare, its acceptance can be promoted.
3. research funding
Investing in scientific research underlines the legitimacy and effectiveness of psychological counseling and supports the foundation and further development of practice.
4. cooperation with medical institutions
Increased cooperation with traditional medical disciplines can improve the perception and recognition of psychological counseling.
Summary and visionary outlook
The nexus between psychological counseling and social recognition illustrates the essential link between professional practice and public perception. Achieving comprehensive integration and acceptance of psychological counseling outside of the medical profession requires ongoing commitment from all stakeholders in the field. Through education, research and cooperation, we can achieve the goal of an inclusive and mentally healthy society in which psychological counselling is recognized and valued as an essential part of healthcare.