The competences to appropriately perform the counseling function: some comparative remarks
Guido Sarchielli
Based on the definition of the counseling function, this paper emphasises the complexity of professional responses to the varied requests for help expressed in different social contexts. To address this complexity, high-quality competences are required. They represent the expected outcome of modern training models for psychologists. By comparing EuroPsy and APA models, some useful competences, which are relevant to counseling activities and could be improved for more effective performance, are highlighted. In conclusion, we suggest setting up postgraduate initiatives for psychologists for learning specific counseling knowledge and skills to ensure that this function can be best recognised for its effectiveness. Similar initiatives could improve consultancy activities also for non-psychological professions.
Keywords
competence; competency; skills; microskills; training models comparison.
