Counselling does not seem to be an independent profession in Serbia, which is why there is no historical background.
The need of counselling on the other hand is more urgent as about a third of the population suffers from mental health problems due to the economic crisis, which has led to unemployment and rising poverty.
With 7.2 million inhabitants, Serbia has only 350 certified psychotherapists and 900 psychiatrists. The Association of Psychotherapeutic Societies in Serbia quantifies the need for psychotherapists at 6000-8000. About 1500 experts are currently being trained and will soon have the conditions to be included in the system.