The development and identity of counselling psychology in South Africa : a scoping review

Abstract

Counselling psychology in South Africa has encountered challenges in defining its professional identity amidst legislative amendments and discursive narratives. This study aims to explore the professional identity of counselling psychology through a scoping review of available literature. Two broad research questions guided the inquiry; the content of existing literature on identity development and the extent of South African literature featuring counselling psychology identity. Five electronic databases were considered (Google Scholar, JSTOR, EBSCOhost PsycInfo, PubMED and SAGE Journals) between October and December 2023 producing ten studies that met the inclusion criteria. Thematic analysis of the ten selected studies spanning two decades revealed key themes: statutory frameworks, domains of practice, values and professional training's impact on identity development. Significant gaps were identified, including the dispositional elements of identity composition and the influence of academic training and selection procedures on identity development. This encompassing perspective provides deeper insight into the intricate interplay between the personal and professional dimensions of identity, assisting to reframe the narrative discourse surrounding counselling psychology in South Africa. Finally, the study concludes by addressing potential limitations and areas for further study.