The legal status of clinical psychologists has become one of the most significant topics of debate in our country recently. The ongoing discussions as to whether clinical psychologists should be considered healthcare personnel, educational-counselling personnel, or a distinct professional group, and the legal implications of these debates form the basis for various structural and functional problems. For instance, uncertainties and contradictions persist regarding the distinction between clinical psychologists and psychiatrists, the boundaries of their duties and authorities, whether they are entitled to prescribe medication, their obligation of confidentiality and right to refrain from testifying, as well as whether the physical spaces in which they operate, such as offices or polyclinics, qualify as healthcare facilities. It is unacceptable that a professional activity, which directly affects human life and is of undeniable social and individual importance, remains within such legal uncertainty. Therefore, it is essential that the legislator, administrative authorities responsible for implementing the law, and professional organisations establish clear and consistent rules on clinical psychology. Particularly, given that clinical psychologists lack a professional chamber with the status of a public institution, this study will identify their current place and status within the existing legal framework, determine under which Ministry they are supervised and regulated, and subsequently present opinions and recommendations regarding their future legal status.
Ahmet Ersöz (Mon,) studied this question.