Summary of the Proposed Psychology Bill

 

The PAP Board approved the Proposed PSYCH BILL last May 2, 2008. It will be presented to the PAP body during the 45^th Annual Convention in Davao City on August 14-16, 2008. Dr. Allan B.I. Bernardo, current PAP President,  also answered frequently asked questions about the PSYCH BILL here. 

Here are excerpts from the Proposed Philippine Psychology and Psychometrics Act of 2008.

AN ACT TO REGULATE THE PRACTICE OF PSYCHOLOGY AND PSYCHOMETRICS

A PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGIST shall be authorized to engage in the professional practice of psychology consisting of the delivery of  psychological services:

 

(1) psychological interventions such as  psychological counseling, psychotherapy, psychosocial support, coaching, psychological debriefing, group processes, etcetera;

(2)  psychological assessment or the gathering and integration of psychology-related data for the purpose of making a psychological evaluation, accomplished through a variety of tools; and,

(3)  psychological programs or the development, planning, implementation,  monitoring, and evaluation of psychological treatment programs and other psychological intervention programs for individuals and/or groups.

 

A PSYCHOMETRICIAN shall be authorized to do any of the following, provided, that such shall at all times be conducted under the supervision of a licensed professional psychologist:

 

(1) administering and scoring of objective personality tests, structured personality tests, pen and-paper intelligence, achievement and interest tests, excluding projective tests and other higher level forms of psychological tests;

(2) interpreting results of the same and preparing a written report on these results; and,

(3) conducting preparatory intake interviews of clients for psychological intervention sessions.

 

 

LICENSURE EXAMS REQUIRED

All applicants for registration to practice psychology and psychometrics shall be required to pass a licensure examination for psychologists and psychometricians.

 

QUALIFICATIONS TO TAKE THE LICENSURE EXAM FOR PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

Applicant:

(a) is a Filipino citizen, a permanent resident, or a citizen of a  foreign state/ country which extends reciprocity to the Philippines relative to the practice of the profession;

(b) holds at least a Master’s degree in Psychology and has obtained sufficient credits for the subjects covered in the examination;
(c) has undergone a minimum of 500 hours of supervised practicum/internship/ clinical experience under the auspices of a licensed psychologist or other licensed mental health professional;

(d) is of good moral character; and,

(e) has not been convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude.

 

QUALIFICATIONS TO TAKE THE LICENSURE EXAM FOR PSYCHOMETRICIANS
Applicant:

(a) is a Filipino citizen, a permanent resident, or a citizen of a foreign state/ country which extends reciprocity to the Philippines relative to the practice of the profession;

(b) holds at least a Bachelor?s degree in Psychology and has obtained sufficient credits for the subjects covered in the examination;

(c) is of good moral character; and,

(d) has not been convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude.

 

EXAM SUBJECTS FOR PSYCHOLOGISTS

The licensure exam shall cover the following:
(a) Advanced Theories of Personality
(b) Advanced Abnormal Psychology
(c) Advanced Psychological Assessment
(d) Psychological Counseling and Psychotherapy

 

EXAM SUBJECTS FOR PSYCHOMETRICIANS

The licensure exam shall cover the following:
(a) Theories of Personality
(b) Abnormal Psychology
(c) Industrial Psychology
(d) Psychological Assessment

 

REGISTRATION WITHOUT EXAMINATION FOR PSYCHOLOGISTS

A person must apply for registration with the Professional Regulatory Board for Psychology and Psychometrics within three (3) years after its creation, by submitting proof of having fulfilled the requirements under (1), (2), or (3) below, before the effectivity of this Act:

 

(1) Obtained a doctoral degree in Psychology and had accumulated 3 years of work experience in the practice of psychology in the Philippines;

(2) Obtained a master’s degree in Psychology and accumulated a minimum of 5 years of work experience in the practice of psychology in the Philippines;

(3) Government psychologists or government employees who hold plantilla positions as psychologists presently employed in various government agencies, who have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, accumulated a minimum of 10 years of work experience in the practice of psychology as a government psychologist, and who have obtained continuing professional education in various psychology-related functions.

 

REGISTRATION WITHOUT EXAMINATION FOR PSYCHOMETICIANS
A person must apply for registration with the Professional Regulatory Board for Psychology and Psychometrics within three (3) years after its creation, by submitting proof of having obtained a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and having accumulated a minimum of 2 years full time work experience in the practice of psychometrics in the Philippines, before the effectivity of this Act.

 

 

All Roads to Davao City

It is a go signal for the 45^th Annual National Convention in Davao Citu on August 14-16, 2008. The convention is co-sponsored by the Brokenshire College, and has the theme “Facing Emerging Issues and Building Better Futures: A Call to Psychologists.” The theme expresses the PAP’s recognition of the important role that psychologists can play in addressing important issues that the country now faces, particularly those that have a strong impact in shaping the future of the Filipino people.

The 45th Annual Convention will feature the Keynote Address of Dr. Cristina J. Montiel (Ateneo de Manila University), a distinguished psychologist with many important accomplishments including, the Distinguished Contribution Award from the Psychologists for Social Responsibility of the American Psychological Association. The convention will also feature several plenary lectures by Philippine psychologists who will speak about current work in Philippine psychology that addresses some of the most important issues facing Philippine society today. Three issues will be highlighted: leadership and governance, indigenization and identity, and the environment. The confirmed plenary speakers include: Dr. Grace Aguiling-Dalisay (Miriam College & Republican College), Dr. Ma. Cecilia Gastardo-Conaco (University of the Philippines, Diliman), Dr. Regina Hechanova (Ateneo de Manila University), Fr. Charlie Inzon, OMI (Notre Dame of Jolo College), Ms. Sherilyn Siy (Miriam College), Dr. Amaryllis Tiglao Torres (University of the Philippines, Diliman), Mr. Marshall Valencia (De La Salle University).

 

There will also be over 60 oral research paper presentations by psychologists from different universities and organizations in the country organized in thematic sessions and specially organized symposia. These presentations will showcase the most recent research investigations in the different subfields of psychology: with many papers in industrial/organizational psychology, applied social psychology, developmental and adolescent psychology, clinical psychology, among many others.

 

In addition, there will be over 20 poster research paper presentations on a wide range of topics. Finally, there will be continuing professional education workshops that aim to develop the capacities in the different aspects of psychological scholarship and professional practice. This year’s program is definitely the biggest conference program ever organized by the PAP, with the most number of research paper presentation ever!

 

The PAP will also have important updates and announcements regarding the Psychology Bill and the Program of Certifying Specialists in the different sub-areas of psychology. You can download registration form, list of Davao City hotels, PAP membership form at www.philippinepsychology.net/pap

 

Hope to see you there! 

  

Survey of Philippine Psychologists and Psychometricians.

 

The PAP is gathering information on psychologists and psychometricians who are practicing in the Philippines as part of its efforts to expedite the passage of our Psychology Bill. The PAP was asked by the sponsor of the Psychology Bill in the Philippine Congress and the Philippine Regulation Commission to come up with the list of Psychologists (with at least MA or MS in Psychology) in the Philippines and a list of Psychometricians (with at least a BS Psychology degree). The list is particularly important as the PAP would like to protect professional psychologists and psychometricians who may be adversely affected by the current IRR of the Guidance and Counseling Act.

 

Please download the PAP survey form and forward it to the Psychological Association of the Philippines using its email address: pap_1962@yahoo.com or its fax facility: 02-453-8257. 

We also encouraged and appreciate it if this information together with the survey form be forwarded to all concerned.

The RA 9258: What is this all about? How are we affected?

 

By now, a good number must have heard of the Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004 or the Republic Act 9258. Yet how many of us are truly aware of its implications on all current and would be psychologists here in the Philippines? How well do we understand the impact of such a law on our current practice and future endeavors? There might even be some who are not fully conscious of the law’s existence. Given the current stance we as a community find ourselves in, this article is therefore written with the hopes of helping us understand better the law, and with the desire to spread a greater sense of awareness regarding its effects on all of us concerned.

 

What is the Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004?

 

RA 9258, more popularly known as the Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004, is a law crafted and designed to professionalize the practice of guidance and counseling in the Philippines. The law also entails the creation of a Professional Regulatory Board of Guidance and Counseling who will then be mandated by this very law to formulate the necessary rules and regulations that will implement the provisions contained within, in coordination with the accredited professional organization. The interim accredited professional organization happens to be the PGCA or the Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association, Inc.

 

This law basically states that “No person shall engage in the practice of guidance and counseling without a valid Certificate of Registration and a valid Professional Identification Card or a Special Permit” and that “no corporation, partnership, association or entity shall operate a guidance and counseling office, center/clinic, testing center, rehabilitation center, or otherwise engage in the practice of guidance and counseling without first securing a permit from the Board.  The permit shall be issued only after it has satisfied the Board that such establishment is properly staffed by duly Registered and Licensed Guidance Counselors.”

 

What are the most important points of the Guidance Act?

 

Given that the Guidance Act was created to regulate and professionalize counseling in the country, terms must first be clarified and well defined to understand how this law comes into play. First of all, how is Guidance and Counseling itself defined under RA 9258? According to this law, guidance and counseling is “the profession that involves the use of an integrated approach to the development of a well-functioning individual primarily by helping him/her to utilize his/her potentials to the fullest and plan/his/her present and future in accordance with his/her abilities, interests and needs.”

 

The authors of the law continued to define it further by saying that “it includes functions such as counseling, psychological testing (i.e. personality, career, interest, aptitude, mental ability, achievement), learning and study orientation, research placement, referral and group processes.  It includes the teaching of guidance and counseling subjects particularly those covered in the Licensure Examinations and necessary in other human development services.”

 

What then are the requirements for one to be able to apply for a license under this law?

 For any person desiring accreditation under RA 9258, he or she must be able to live up to the following qualifications:

Ø Be a citizen of the Philippines, or a foreigner whose country has reciprocity with the Philippines for the practice of guidance and counseling.

Ø Not have been convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude

Ø Be a holder of either a Bachelor’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling or in other allied disciplines, a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from an institution in the Philippines or abroad, or a Ph.D. or Ed.D in Guidance and Counseling or Counseling Psychology.

Under the Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004, there is also a provision which makes way for Registration without having to take the licensure examination (The grandfather’s clause). This goes with its own set of requirements and qualifications. Those who are eligible to fall under this provision are those who live up to the following criterion:

Ø They are Ph.D. or M.A. holders in Guidance and Counseling with at least 3 years of teaching experience &/or full time counseling practice for the same period.

Ø They have passed at least 18 units of Master’s level courses in Guidance and Counseling such as Counseling Techniques, Organization and Administration of Guidance Services, Psychological Tests and Measurement, Group Process/Group Facilitating and Career Guidance; and have at least 7 years of experience in counseling work.

Ø They have completed academic requirements for a master’s degree in guidance and counseling and had 5 years experience as full-time guidance counselor/part time guidance counselor with officially designated teaching load in guidance and counseling.

 

Given the various requirements and qualifications for any person to be able to apply for accreditation under this law, one cannot help but ponder what will happen if such a law is not followed or strictly observed.            

                                                                                          

This is where the penalty clause comes in. Article VI Rule 42 or the penalty clause states that “any person who violates any provision of the Act and Implementing Rules and Regulations issued by the Board and the Commission, commits fraud in the acquisition of Certificate of Registration or special permit shall be punished with imprisonment of not less than 6 months but not more than 8 years or a fine not less than P50,000 but not more than P100,000 or both in the discretion of the court.”

 

Having mentioned all of that, why is it that the passing of this lawl stands as an issue for all present and future Psychologists? If this whole law was created to regulate and professionalize the practice of Guidance and Counseling, why should we, psychologists, be alarmed? After all, this was a law authored by people educated in the field of education, meant to affect those who belong to their own line of work.

 

Ma. Isabel E. Melgar, PhD, PAP Board Member and Head of the Task Force in Response to the Guidance Act, said, “what is troubling and alarming about this RA 9258 is how it crossed borders.”

 

In the process of having written their law the way they did, the things we do as psychologists are now also going to be regulated because of this law. According to legal experts, this bill can only be interpreted in one manner and this is exactly as how it is written and read. As one could see from their definitions provided earlier, they defined Guidance and Counseling in the broadest possible sense such that it encapsulated practically what we psychologists do.

 

Dr. Melgar points out that our problem now is how we do not have any armor or protection, in the form of a bill of our own. The only defense we could truly have would be our own law which will regulate psychologists, make them apply for accreditation and be licensed as psychologists…not guidance counselors. We need our own law to professionalize our own practice under Psychology, otherwise we are all covered and governed by the Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004, rendering us unable to establish or continue our practices unless we apply for a license following their set requirements.

 

Dr. Melgar continues by saying that even those from her generation who have been practicing for years, who have set up their own private practice and are doing well, have to go through all the pains and requirements of applying for a grandfather’s clause, which is a provision exempting one from taking the licensure exam based on years of experience in this line of work. Even such an exemption entails a great deal of qualifications and requirements which stand to be tremendously taxing of anyone.

 

Dr. Melgar adds that what worries her more would be the predicament the current generation of psychologists find themselves in. She fears for these young professionals who are just about to start, or are still taking up their MA or PhD in Psychology and are excited to set up their own practice. They cannot practice unless they call it by some other name. The way they defined counseling in its broadest sense creates this notion that regardless of where you are, be it in a school, church, or community setting, as long as you practice counseling, you are affected and governed by this law and you are therefore answerable to what it contains.

As Dr. Melgar would put it,  the bottom line is that those who have majored and graduated or are even still taking up their MA in Counseling, or PhD in Clinical Psychology, particularly those who are working in a school setting as counselors are now forced to take MA in Education. They are being required to go back to school, take up MA in Guidance and Counseling, and then afterwards take the accreditation exam.  Imagine those who have already completed their MA or PhD and are now being driven out of their work. Dr. Melgar mentions that at least 3 people have already emailed her, telling her that their employers have already warned them that they will be given their walking papers despite having worked and stayed there in that school for 15 years, unless of course they apply for licensure.

This Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004 is an issue for us psychologists precisely because it is now telling us that we are no longer allowed by law to practice that which we spent years to study, learn, and train ourselves in. The way the law was written and the way it is interpreted covers our practices as psychologists and therefore, unless we have a law of our own to make us legit to push through with our line of work, we have to abide by RA 9258.   

 

What is the PAP doing about it?

 

Dr. Melgar states that from the very beginning, they wanted to get the message across that we cannot be victimized by this law. This is the reason why the PAP is now very active in putting up our own defense. Forums were held to first and foremost inform and educate the Psychology community of the existence and effects of the Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004. It was also through one of these forums wherein the options or possible plans of action were discussed.

 

Some legal options were mentioned, such as challenging the constitutionality of the law, or challenging its implementing rules and regulations (IRR). Another legal option was to go for a temporary restraining order on the implementation of the IRR and the law itself. It was also another possible course of action to seek clarificatory relief from the Regional Trial Court. It was also suggested that petitions be made to have the PRB of Guidance and Counseling revise the IRR and accommodate modifications which will delineate functions of guidance counselors and psychologists, and allow trained psychologists who wish to work as guidance counselors to be licensed if they comply with other licensure requirements.

 

While all suggestions were valid and duly noted, Dr. Melgar points out that it is not the intention of the PAP to be adversarial or to pick up a fight and so they opt not be head on with their methods. Their top priority is to protect the rights of psychologists to practice that which they were trained to do in the first place. Given this stance, it was agreed upon that the best course of action to take as of present is to push for the passing of the Psychology bill which is a law of our own, to professionalize and accredit our own practices as Psychologists. This bill is currently under deliberation and is now being reviewed for comments and revisions. The PAP is now pushing for the fast track passage of the Psychology bill as the next step amidst this pressing matter.  

 

What should we as students taking our MA or PhD in Psychology do about it?

 

As Dr. Melgar put it, it really depends on what one’s career goal is as of the moment. If a person’s career goal is to really work under a Guidance and Counseling department in a school setting, then he or she has no choice but to take up their MA in Guidance and Counseling and apply for accreditation. However, if one’s aim is to practice counseling, and therapy, or assessment privately or in another set up, then Dr. Melgar believes that the future Psychology law will cover and protect this person. As of now however, the student body concerned must really just wait and see as to how the current Psychology bill is progressing. Much support and prayer on our behalf is needed that this law of our own be passed. For now, Dr. Melgar shares that it is important for all to be conscious of the existence of the Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004, to be aware and up to date with its implications and effects.

 

(Written by JC Capuno)

 

Amazing Thailand Psychology

 

(From the President’s Desk)

 

Last February 11 to 13, a small group of Filipino psychologists formed the Philippine delegation to the 2^nd Congress of the ASEAN Regional Union of Psychological Societies (ARUPS) in Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.  The Filipino participants who came from Metro Manila and Davao City did us all proud as they presented very well received oral presentations of their recent research papers.  Congratulations!

 

During this meeting, I had the distinct honor of assuming the Presidency of ARUPS (having been elected President-Elect in 2006), and in this capacity I also hope to undertake my responsibilities in ways that will make Philippine psychologists proud.

 

But the most memorable aspect of this Thailand conference is our exposure to Buddhist psychology which is a growing field of study in Thailand, led by new ARUPS President-Elect, Dr. Soree Pokaeo of Chulalongkorn University.  During the conference, various paper presenters spoke about the basic principles and theoretical propositions of Buddhist psychology, and how these relate to different aspects of psychological study. 

 

I will not attempt to write about this complex topic, but what I noted was that the Thai psychologists who were studying Buddhist psychology were elaborating on a very new paradigm for doing psychology.  The tenets of Buddhist psychology have profound implications on how psychologists define human functioning, the goals and processes of human development, the nature and aspects of well-being, the nature of psychological distress, and even therapeutic interventions for psychological problems.  Some papers presented have gone as far as developing reliable measures for important constructs in Buddhist psychology.

 

During the conference, one fellow Filipino participant wondered why we Filipino psychologists have not developed a Catholic psychology.  The wondering was warranted as we know that Buddhism is a religion.  However, Buddhism is not just a religion in Thailand.  Instead it pervades every aspect of Thai society and culture.  We could say that Buddhism is a way of life for many Thai people, even those who do not claim to be Buddhist.  During one of my dinners with Thai psychology professors, they explained that Buddhism in Thailand actually incorporates many indigenous non-Buddhist beliefs and practices as well.  It seems to me that Buddhist psychology is not a psychology of the Buddhist religion, but an indigenous psychology of the Thai people.

 

In this regard, I know that Philippine psychologists have already made progress in developing an indigenous psychology, led by the late Dr. Virgilio Enriquez.  I still recall how, as an undergraduate student, I found many of Dr. Enriquez’ ideas very original, thought-provoking, and exciting.  It is the same feeling that I had while listening to the Thai Buddhist psychologists. 

 

I expressed my great admiration for the work of Buddhist psychologists to Dr. Soree Pokaeo, which he sincerely appreciated.  He was quick to tell me that my appreciation was so significant because they (the Buddhist psychologists of Thailand) often felt alone in the work, as most Thai psychologists did not appreciate it.  I wonder whether there is a similar lack of appreciation for indigenous psychology of Filipinos in the Philippines.

 

I truly believe that in the Philippines, indigenous psychological approaches to the study of human behavior represent important lines of work that will make psychology more relevant to the more Filipino people.  The work that is being done by our colleagues in the Pambansang Samahan sa Sikolohiyang Pilipino and some psychology departments can provide evidence for this. 

 

But the work does not begin with identifying and defining concepts and principles.  Indigenous psychological work requires precise and tough-minded scholarship, the utilization of varied empirical methodological tactics, and sustained scholarship on the part of committed researchers.  I hope that more PAP members share this belief and commit themselves to developing a Philippine psychology that is truly relevant to the lives of Filipino people. 

 

Allan B. I. Bernardo

PAP President

 

PAP goes to Kadayawan!

In August 14-16, 2008, the PAP will be holding its 45th Annual Convention in Davao City. The convention will be co-sponsored by the Brokenshire College, and will have the theme “Facing Emerging issues and Building Better Futures: A Call to Psychologists.” The theme expresses the PAP’s recognition of the important role that psychologists can play in addressing important issues that the country now faces, particularly those that have a strong impact in shaping the future of the Filipino people.

 

The 45th Annual Convention will feature several plenary lectures by leading Philippine psychologists who will speak about current work in Philippine psychology that addresses some of the most important issues facing Philippine society today. Three issues will be highlighted: leadership and governance, indigenization and identity, and the environment. There will also be research paper presentations by psychologists from different universities and organizations in the country organized in thematic sessions. These presentations will showcase the most recent research investigations in the different subfields of psychology. Finally, there will be continuing professional education workshops that aim to develop the capacities in the different aspects of psychological scholarship and professional practice.

 

Last year, the annual convention was held in Tagbilaran City, Bohol with the theme, “One Philippine Psychology: Unity amid Diversity.” Susumu Yamaguchi, PhD from University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan was the keynote speaker. 

 

This year, it will be the second time that the national convention will be held outside Metro Manila. The convention dates will fall on the weekend before the Kadayawan Festival, when Dabawenyos celebrate and give thanks for the land’s bountiful harvest of fruits and flowers.

 

New Board and Officers for 2007-2008

 

This year, with the new constitution being implemented, fifteen new board members were elected to serve three, two, and one terms. The election was held last August 16-24, 2007.

 

Elected board members starting 2007 are Allan B.I. Bernardo, PhD (3 years, from De La Salle University-Manila), Jesus Enrique G. Saplala, PhD (3 years from, from Miriam College), Richard dlC. Gonzales, PhD (3 years, from University of Santo Tomas), Mira Alexis P. Ofreneo, PhD (3 years, from Ateneo de Manila University), Lucila O. Bance, PhD (2 years, from University of Santo Tomas), Ma. Suzette M. Agcaoili, MA (2 years, from Department of Social Work & Development), Maria Caridad H. Tarroja, PhD (2 years, from De La Salle University-Manila),  Maria Theresa D. Ujano-Batangan, PhD (2 years, from University of the Philippines-Diliman), Ma. Isabel M. Melgar, PhD (2 years, from Ateneo de Manila University),Carmencita H. Salonga, PhD (2 years, from Centro Escolar University),  Ma. Claudette M. Alvarez- Agnes, PhD (1 year, from University of Santo Tomas),  Eduardo C. Caligner, MA (1 year, from Ateneo de Manila University and University of Santo Tomas), Annalyn L De Guzman-Capulong, MA (1 year, from University of the Philippines-Diliman), Ray P. Leuterio, PhD (1 year, from Letran College-Calamba, Laguna), and Jerry J. Jurisprudencia, PhD (1 year, from Miriam College).

 

The board then proceeded to elect the officers for 2007-2008: President - Allan B.I. Bernardo, PhD, Vice President – Jesus Enrique G. Saplala, PhD, Executive Secretary – Lucila O. Bance, PhD, Treasurer – Maria Caridad H. Tarroja, PhD, and P.R.O. – Mira Alexis P. Ofreneo, PhD.

 

 

Guidance Act Legal Forum

Around a hundred psychologists, guidance counselors, psychometricians, and graduate students filled the Escaler Hall of Ateneo de Manila University for PAP’s Legal Forum on Understanding the Implications of RA 9258 or the Guidance Act of 2004 last November 16, 2007.

There were three panel discussants: Atty. Carlos Almelor (Head of PRC Secretariat Office), Atty. Theodore Te (faculty member of UP College of Law) and Atty. Minerva Ambrosio (a private practitioner who have worked with different psychologists in courts). The highlights are summarized  here.

PAPJA conquers Miriam College

For the second time after ten years, Miriam College hosted the 21^st Psychology Association of the Philippines – Junior Affiliates (PAPJA) National Convention with the theme, Unity amid Diversity: One Philippine Psychology from December 7-8, 2008. Miriam College president, Dr. Patricia B. Licuanan, welcomed more than 1,500 delegates from all over the country at the jam-packed Marian Auditorium. The keynote speech was delivered by Dr. Queena Lee-Chua, who shared anecdotes on her experiences as a researcher and teacher of psychology and math. This was followed by a plenary on the work of psychologists in the different fields, lead by PAP president, Dr. Allan Bernardo for research, Ms. Bing Manlapaz of DDISGV - for human resources management and Mr. Lorenzo Abacan of the Sophia School. Students had a chance to ask or clarify questions and were given helpful tips regarding job application, establishing contacts, doing research and so on. Four simultaneous focus group discussions with the psychology organizations’ representatives from the different schools were held during lunch, which addressed the issue on PAP’s role in helping its junior affiliate members.                                

 

Perhaps, the first day’s highlight was the Fourth Inter-School Psychology Quiz Challenge, which was held at the Miriam College High School Covered Court. University of Santo Tomas went for a three-peat as they conquered the title again, followed by second placer, De La Salle University and St. Louis University in third place.

 

Also, winners for the outstanding undergraduate theses and posters were announced at the end of the program. The outstanding undergraduate thesis went to De La Salle University, followed by Miriam College and Far Eastern University. The outstanding poster researches went to Ateneo de Manila University for the first and third place while the second place went to College of the Holy Spirit.

 

There were more than 40 workshops the next day and they were all full as usual. The most popular workshop was perhaps Fr. Jaime Bulatao’s An Introduction to Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy. Fr. Bulatao, PAP founding member, had two workshops where students were treated to an experience of altered states of consciousness and were taught how to apply this to their daily lives.  

Highlights of the Proceedings: Legal Forum on Understanding the Implications of RA 9258.

Are psychologists  required to be licensed under RA 9258?

Psychologists must be licensed if they want to practice guidance and/or counseling as stipulated in RA 9258. The scope of practice covered by this law includes such functions as counseling, psychological testing, research, placement, group processes, teaching of guidance and counseling subjects in such sites as educational institutions, rehabilitation centers, non-governmental organizations, community-based agencies, hospital and other workplaces. The Professional Regulatory Board will act only based upon the provisions of the law. If you do not agree/not satisfied, recourse can be sought with the regular court or the Department of Justice.

 

Who is qualified to be licensed under RA 9258?

If the provision of the law is clear, there is no need for such an interpretation. As stated in the law, those who have Bachelor’s degree in Guidance & Counseling, MA Guidance & Counseling, PhD Guidance & Counseling are qualified to be licensed. 

 

Can I seek registration without taking the examination?

If you have an MA & PhD in Guidance & Counseling with certain number of years of experience, you can be registered without taking the licensure examination. For example, those with Ph.D or M.A. in Guidance and Counseling with at least 3 years of counseling practice can be registered.

 

What if I find ambiguity in any provision of the law?

Write the Professional Regulatory Board (PRB) for clarification and seek their opinion. The power to interpret the provisions of the law rests on the PRB, but a complaint can be filed in the courts to challenge the law. 

 

If your degree falls within the provisions of the law, then there is nothing to fear, you just have to present your transcript and certification of your practice.

 

The PRB went to the extent of expanding on the provisions. There must be consistency between the law and the IRR. The purpose of the IRR is to put details that are not in the law. This consists of procedures and steps on how to carry out the provisions of the law.

 

The PRB has the power to suspend the implementation of the law. If you think the provisions of the IRR are not valid or unconstitutional, you can file this complaint in the court. But the PRB itself has the authority not to carry it out if they believe that it is not valid.

 

What is the implication of RA 9258 for Psychological Centers?

If you are practicing Psychology without overlapping with the functions of Guidance Counselors, then you can continue your practice. Otherwise, your practice is illegal.

 

(The IRR defines guidance and counseling as the profession that involves the use of an integrated approach to the development of a well-functioning individual primarily by helping him/her to utilize his/her potentials to the fullest and plan his/her future in accordance with his/her abilities.)

 

What is the implication of RA 9258 for those currently hired as Guidance Counselors?

Be guided by the provisions, the rules and regulations. You can apply for registration without examination, provided you were able to comply with the provisions of the law.

 

You can continue occupying your position until you have applied for Grandfather’s clause. Try to be registered within 2-year period after the composition of the board. If you continue to practice not having complied with the provisions, you risk imprisonment.

 

I question the validity/constitutionality of the law and its IRR. What are my options? What is the recourse of psychologists?

 

Atty. Ambrosio: Continue practicing and wait for someone to question; proactively, ask for opinion of the Secretary of Justice; push through or lobby for the passage of the Psychology Bill.

 

Atty. Te: Challenge the law; clarify what the law means as it applies to Psychology; ask for Declaratory Relief (which can be done by an individual or by groups of individuals); clarify the overlaps in definitions stipulated in the Guidance Law.

 

Atty. Almelor: The law has recognized the practice of Guidance Counseling; we should not resort to any step that violates the law.

 

As distributor of test materials, does the law mean that I can sell only to licenced Guidance Counselors?

The law has no prohibition against selling to anyone.