Psychological counseling center is becoming quite common in Turkey. Psychology, which is just starting to be recognized in our country, is producing many graduates in this field. Clinical psychologists, psychologists, and those specialized in their fields work at counseling centers. Generally, individuals who have a master's degree in psychology and adhere to the rules can open a counseling center.
Psychological counseling centers can conduct and report various psychological and neuropsychological tests and provide therapy using therapeutic methods. These institutions have psychologists who are certified practitioners in these areas. Failing to do so can lead to the closure of the institution. Despite our emphasis on conducting our profession within ethical frameworks, occasionally, some of us are not recognized in the news or social networks. As technology develops, therapeutic services, including web therapy or phone therapy services, are also developed. Psychological counseling centers can provide training and certification to individuals working in this profession or students in the field if they are trained as an institution.
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Competence
PDR employees strive to offer their services with the highest level of competence. They know the limits of their competence areas. They only provide services at the level of their education and as provided by the institutions, and when faced with a particular situation, they try to make the best decisions and take the most appropriate actions in light of available scientific, professional, and technical resources. PDR employees work to increase their scientific and professional levels through their experiences, continuously update their knowledge, and work in their first fields of knowledge throughout their lives. They use every scientific, professional, technical, and administrative resource necessary for this purpose.
Integrity
PDR employees prioritize scientific and professional research, honesty, accuracy, and realism in interpersonal relationships, especially during the counseling process. They do not make false statements. They do not use incorrect or exaggerated expressions in their presentations, and they talk about their education, research, and professional qualifications. Psychological counselors are aware of their own beliefs, values, systems, and needs, as well as their strengths and weaknesses. They understand how these can affect their professional activities. Their essence is aligned with their thoughts and behaviors, meaning their words and actions are the same. They especially aim to establish transparent relationships with their clients.
Sensitivity and Tolerance
PDR employees maintain sensitive and professional relationships, especially with their clients. They understand that understanding human relationships is the key that opens every door. However, they have realized that being sensitive is not enough and that it is important to respect the personal rights and dignity of colleagues and clients. They know that the most valuable being in the world is a human being. They trust their ability to solve their own problems and sincerely believe in their freedom to make their own decisions. Even if it leads to administrative or legal challenges, they will do everything possible to protect their clients' confidential information and prevent or minimize harm to people.
Sensitivity to Individual and Cultural Differences
PDR employees understand the needs and problems of different segments of society and try to adapt the methods and techniques they use in their research to their specific needs. They also emphasize that individual and cultural differences, such as age, gender, religion, language, socioeconomic status, and membership in different groups, should not negatively affect their services. Clients may have completely different ideas, ideologies, beliefs, and values from a counselor. In such cases, counselors strive to serve without discrimination. Those who engage in discrimination consciously avoid participating in such parties, are not criticized, and do not engage in debates. Counselors accept everyone they reach out to and serve them with understanding.
Social Responsibility
PDR is a set of services for people. In this regard, the nature of the services provided in this field makes the primary duty and responsibility of the counselors one to an individual. They strive to help a person find their way and become aware of themselves in the increasingly complex conditions of society. However, a person cannot be isolated from society. People and society are like two sides of the same reality and cannot be separated from each other. Society is made up of people and exists for their well-being. A person can only live and fulfill themselves within society. Helping one person reflects on another. In this context, NDR members are aware of their scientific and professional responsibilities to society and respect the rights of citizens to serve the majority. They disseminate their knowledge for the benefit of society through the media. They work to identify the psychological causes of events that lead to social disasters and try to minimize the consequences. Counselors do not suggest using psychological services for inhumane purposes. They also cooperate with the legislative body and participate in the development of social policies and laws that benefit society and clients. They spend part of their time on professional work, regardless of their personal or financial interests.
Professional and Scientific Responsibility
PDR employees must adhere to ethical behavior standards, fully understand their responsibilities and roles, and act accordingly. They collaborate with institutions regarding the interests and concerns of the people they serve and refer them to other professionals in the field. Counselors also wonder if their colleagues are working according to scientific and professional ethical rules and standards. If necessary, they engage in discussions with colleagues to prevent inappropriate behavior. Professionals who follow these functions, track scientific developments, and carry out their profession will be able to find the most suitable ways for people to achieve self-fulfillment.
