Psychology and guidance services (SPO)

The Psychology and Guidance Services (SPO), established by Decree-Law 190/91, 17 May, are specialist units integrated into schools, from pre-school to secondary level, which operate in three complementary areas: psycho-educational support, fostering relationships within the educational community, and educational and career guidance. Their work, which is development-oriented, is tailored to the priorities of each school and may take place in person or remotely.

The school psychologist, also as a member of the multidisciplinary team supporting inclusive education, carries out assessment, follow-up and monitoring of support measures, with technical and scientific autonomy, with a view to the holistic development of pupils.

In Portugal, guidance in pre-school and school settings is primarily provided by psychologists working within the Psychology and Guidance Services (SPO) of public schools, as well as in private and cooperative ones.

Psychologists carry out their duties within their own legal framework, in collaboration with school management, teachers, specialist staff and community services. Their professional practice is regulated by the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation, in the case of the state sector, and ruled by the general regulations governing the practice of psychology, under the supervision of the Portuguese Psychologists’ Association.

The initial qualification for school psychologists is a Master’s degree in Psychology, specialising in Educational Psychology or related fields, recognised by the Portuguese Psychologists’ Association. Practising the profession requires registration with the Order of Psychologists and the completion of professional internship requirements. Continuing professional development is provided through programmes accredited by the Portuguese Psychologists’ Association, training centres run by school associations and other recognised bodies, ensuring that practitioners remain up to date with scientific and technical developments throughout their careers.

For more information, please read section 11.4 Guidance and counselling in early childhood and school education.