Development Support Psychology

A Development Support Psychologist is a specialist who assists individuals in achieving their full potential by addressing life challenges, enhancing emotional and social skills, and fostering healthy relationships to promote personal and emotional well-being.

Specialization Overview

The Development Support Psychology specialization focuses on human developmental psychology, educational psychology, counseling psychology, and the diagnosis and psychological assistance throughout the human life cycle. The aim of this specialization is to build professional knowledge and to develop and strengthen psychological competencies related to stimulating the development of individuals within the normative range, as well as those facing difficulties and disorders characteristic of specific developmental stages. This specialization delves into areas such as supporting children and adolescents, aiding adults in personal and professional development, and exploring psychogerontology.

Target Audience

This specialization is intended for individuals interested in human psychological development who aspire to work with people to support their developmental processes at various life stages. It is suitable for both newcomers to psychology studies and graduates from related fields such as pedagogy or medical sciences.

Educational Program

The specialization program emphasizes acquiring knowledge and practical skills in supporting development or enhancing quality of life in selected areas of human functioning. The practical aspect of Development Support Psychology pertains to competencies related to stimulating the development of individuals within the normative range, as well as those experiencing difficulties and disorders typical of specific developmental stages, including emotional needs of children and adolescents, school challenges, adaptation difficulties, identity formation, and self-esteem. Courses are conducted by practicing psychologists specializing in human development across the lifespan, health psychology, child and adolescent development support (including early childhood intervention), psychosexual development and sex education, quality of life psychology, aging and old age psychology, and psychogerontology.

Graduate Profile

A graduate of Development Support Psychology possesses the knowledge and competencies necessary for further training as a psychotherapist. During their studies, they acquire specialized skills to maintain therapeutic contact with clients (children, parents, adults). Graduates can work as psychologists with children, adolescents, and adults.

Employment Opportunities

Graduates may find employment as psychologists, particularly in the following settings:

• Schools, kindergartens, and educational institutions (subject to possessing pedagogical qualifications)

• Care and educational centers

• Psychological and pedagogical counseling centers

• Family counseling centers

• Psychological clinics

• Specialized counseling centers (youth, family)

• Career counseling institutions

• Social assistance institutions

• Crisis intervention and support centers

• Support facilities and centers related to education and upbringing counseling for children and adolescents

• Non-governmental organizations implementing psychoeducational programs

• Institutions and organizations supporting the elderly

• Universities of the Third Age

• Foundations and associations specializing in supporting human development at various life stages

• Private psychological counseling practices