Certified counselor, accredited expert, locally, regionally, and globally, professional doctorate, professional master’s… the titles vary, but the method remains the same: a short training course that ends with the graduation of dozens of “certified counselors” in various fields. Perhaps the most widely spread nowadays is in legal and family affairs—without any prior experience in the field.
As soon as the training program ends, the trainee receives a collection of titles, badges, and certificates that give a false sense of professional entitlement, in my opinion.
Whether these programs are offered locally or abroad, neither requires any practical exams or clinical hours with authorized institutions. This “trainee” then begins practicing here and there and becomes entrusted with the fate of families, the sacred marital bond, and the future of children—based merely on personal opinions, sometimes shaped by failed experiences or casual conversations among friends in cafes and gatherings. This is how the future of families who sought a last resort for help may end up being decided.
These programs, whether local or international, must undergo professional evaluation for accreditation. The current form of accreditation only involves reviewing written materials without any practical exams or applied studies to assess the program’s effectiveness. There is no real accreditation for the practical institutions cooperating with these training centers, nor for professional memberships from third parties. Not to mention the questionable value of professional diplomas like the “professional master’s” and “professional doctorate,” which have led to the widespread use of the “Dr.” title, even though professional graduates do not attain academic ranks.
Specialized authorities must evaluate those enrolled in these training programs before certifying and graduating them. This should include a strict plan and clear criteria, such as a minimum number of working hours and supervised casework under the guidance of practicing specialists. This work may even be voluntary to fulfill graduation requirements from the training program.
