A new set of rules and requirements for psychologists and other professionals who provide advisory services to people has entered into force in Kazakhstan after President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the law «On Psychological Activity,» adopted by the Senate in late June.
According to MP Asem Rakhmetova, the law was drafted in line with the president’s instructions after he called for stricter oversight of the personal and professional development sector, citing the growing number of «pseudo-psychologists» and «coaches.»
From now on, all specialists in this industry must meet a set of new requirements. The law establishes a professional standard defining the qualifications, competencies and level of training for psychologists.
The law also provides for the adoption of a Code of Professional Ethics. Once adopted, the code will establish standards for professional responsibility and confidentiality in psychological practice.
Furthermore, the law introduces the mandatory use of scientifically proven methods and a supervisory system to improve the quality of professional training.
One of the law’s key innovations in the field will be a certification system for psychologists. This will allow specialists to be assessed for compliance with established requirements. Furthermore, a state registry of psychologists will be created in Kazakhstan.
According to officials, Kazakhstan already has the educational infrastructure needed to implement the law, including 43 universities that train psychologists and enroll approximately 17,000 students. Around 4,000 specialists graduate each year.
In addition, the president initiated the creation of psychological support centers in all regions of Kazakhstan. Last year alone, these centers provided approximately 50,000 consultations.
