She noted that the level of public awareness about mental health has significantly increased. "Several years ago, about 5-7 years ago, most people did not seek help from psychologists. Usually, parents brought children only in cases of delayed speech or mental development. Today, we are seeing an increase in requests from adults who are also starting to seek professional help. This is likely the reason for the emergence of many unscrupulous specialists without the appropriate education," Nurgul Ibraeva added, mentioning complaints received from citizens.
She also reminded about the existing legislation that prohibits the advertising of services by psychologists who do not have relevant education. According to the Law on Advertising, any publications and promotion of "psychological assistance" services by unqualified specialists may lead to administrative measures.
"Qualified medical psychologists undergo more in-depth training and are capable of providing truly professional help. Every psychologist should have a higher education in psychology, relevant certificates, and a license," she warned.
During the press conference, information about the prices for psychologists' services was also announced. The average cost of a 50-minute session ranges from 2,000 to 3,500 soms, while such services are provided for free in state institutions as part of mandatory health insurance.
