Counselling does not appear to be an independent profession in Portugal. I the context of psychology and psychotherapy, school and vocational counselling are offered.
The career guidance for example dates back to the first decades of the 20th century. Counselling psychology services have also been implemented in the schools and universities. The counselling services are organized mainly under the responsibility of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Employment, Solidarity and Social Affairs.
The majority of consultants in Portugal are qualified psychologists with a variable degree of specialisation.
Psychotherapy normally is not financed by the National System of Social Insurance, unless when prescribed by a psychiatrist. In general, private mental health insurance doesn’t cover psychotherapy sessions. The public health care system includes a Psychological Service for diagnosis and consultation which is avaiable in most Health Centers. There are hospitals that refer to mental health, although the number of clinical psychologists in the public service is quite limited.