Chartered and Regulatory Structure

Membership and the Institutional Framework

The practice of psychology is not an isolated practice, but is regulated by a strong professional structure designed to support the practitioner and protect society.

Upon obtaining the degree, the first mandatory step for legal practice is registration with the College of Psychologists of the jurisdiction where the professional will work. It is not enough to be a graduate; registration grants a practical license.

If a professional moves from one state or province to another for an extended period of time, he/she must transfer his/her registration or register in the new jurisdiction to maintain the legality of his/her actions.

These regional bodies are usually grouped under a National Federation, which issues credentials that are valid throughout the territory and coordinates the defense of the profession.

Social Welfare and Member Protection

Within the union structure there are organizations dedicated to the social security of psychologists, such as the Institutes of Social Security (Inprepsi).

These institutions function as an insurance and social protection system, offering medical benefits and assistance in situations of vulnerability.

Compliance with contributions to these institutions is not only an administrative duty, but also guarantees the necessary solvency to access other benefits, such as the acquisition of restricted psycho-technical material, which is often only sold to solvent and federated professionals.

Legal Framework: Law and Code of Ethics

All professional actions must be strictly governed by the Law on the Practice of Psychology and the Code of Professional Ethics. These documents are not optional guidelines, but binding legal frameworks.

They regulate critical aspects such as professional secrecy, dual relationships (not attending to family or friends), fees and advertising of services.

It is vital that psychologists keep up to date with these regulations, especially in the face of legal gaps that arise with new technologies, such as telepsychology.

When in doubt, the Code of Ethics always prioritizes the welfare of the patient and the integrity of the profession, being the north for decision making in complex situations.

Summary

For the legal practice of psychology, it is mandatory to register with the College of Psychologists of the corresponding jurisdiction, which grants the practical license to work.

There are social welfare organizations that provide protection to the member, being essential to be solvent with them to access benefits and the restricted purchase of psycho-technical material.

All professional actions must be strictly governed by the Law of Practice and the Code of Ethics, binding frameworks that regulate critical aspects such as professional secrecy and fees.