Psychotherapy in Portugal

This article discuss the history and development of psychotherapy in Portugal, highlighting its emergence in the late 1950s and evolution through various phases. Initially influenced by psychoanalysis, the field expanded with the establishment of the Portuguese Psychoanalysis Society and the introduction of various therapeutic models such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Family Therapy. Despite the lack of formal legal recognition for the profession, psychotherapy in Portugal has grown significantly, with various societies and associations representing different therapeutic approaches. The integration of psychotherapy into academic settings has further solidified its role in healthcare, and recent developments, including the establishment of independent psychology departments in hospitals, mark significant progress. The future of Portuguese psychotherapy appears promising, with ongoing advancements and increasing recognition of its importance in mental health.

  • Understand the origins and historical development of psychotherapy in Portugal.

  • Identify key figures and institutions that contributed to the establishment of psychotherapy in Portugal.

  • Recognize the various therapeutic models that have been introduced and adapted in Portugal.

  • Explore the challenges faced by psychotherapists in Portugal, including the lack of formal legal recognition.

  • Analyze the integration of psychotherapy into academic and healthcare settings in Portugal.

  • Evaluate the current and future trends in the field of psychotherapy in Portugal, including the movement towards integration and the impact of recent developments.

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