School‐based psychologists in Lebanese schools: An exploratory analysis of their professional profile

Abstract

The increased interest in school psychology has been accompanied with an expansion of in‐house psychological and rehabilitation services worldwide and in Lebanon. This study aims to explore current practices of school‐based psychologists in Lebanese schools in an attempt to understand their role and inform the design of national strategies. A mixed methods design was used including a review of existing academic curricula, laws and regulations and published local research studies; interviews with stakeholders, and a survey filled by school‐based psychologists. In addition, 7 university curricula, 7 theses, and 3 dissertations were reviewed, 14 stakeholders were interviewed and 49 school‐based psychologists filled the survey. Conclusions suggest that there is no consensus about the title of this profession and its scope of practice, and the required knowledge and training to practice. This study highlighted the need to further make strategic decisions and establish this professional profile, in addition to making the needed amendments to the university curricula and the legal framework of the rules and regulations.