Professionals from educational establishments, the municipality, and social entities raised concerns about the absence of these specialists in Monção, hindering public access to psychological support and the capacity to respond to the needs of children, youth, adults, and families. Low remuneration in the social sector was also highlighted, posing challenges to the valuation and retention of qualified human resources.
These concerns underscore the need to enhance access to proximity psychological healthcare and promote working conditions that value the contribution of psychologists.
During the visit to the Monção Municipal Chamber, the OPP delegation was received by the Mayor, António Barbosa, and Councillor Daniela Fernandes. The meeting addressed the demographic and economic transformations of the municipality and discussed collaboration opportunities between the OPP and municipalities in psychological health literacy and psychosocial risk prevention.
The day included a visit to the industrial unit of Grupo Beneteau in Valença, where work on promoting the psychological health and well-being of its 259 employees was presented. The company has been investing in psychosocial risk assessment and the creation of healthy work environments.
The afternoon featured a visit to EPRAMI – Escola Profissional do Alto Minho Interior, in the Monção campus, which supports around 240 students and adults, with the assistance of two psychologists focused on educational success and professional qualification.
The OPP + Próxima initiative aims to strengthen the connection of the Order of Portuguese Psychologists with the territories. The visit concluded with a working meeting with psychologists from the Viana do Castelo district, identifying challenges related to salaries, career progression, and funding, as well as the limited recognition of psychologists in organizations.
