Career Interventions in the School Context in Psychologists’ Perspectives

Schools are key settings for development and skills promotion and play a central role in career interventions. In a rapidly changing world of work and careers, ensuring the effectiveness of these interventions is increasingly critical. This qualitative study explored psychologists’ perspectives on the needs and challenges of school-based career interventions, aiming to capture professional experiences and identify key dimensions shaping practice. Nineteen Portuguese school psychologists participated in a survey, and subsequently 10 of those took part in a follow-up focus group. The findings highlight several central issues: the need for continuous professional training in vocational psychology; the importance of early and sustained career interventions throughout schooling; challenges arising from competing professional demands; the limited prioritization of career intervention within schools; and the need for stronger collaboration among school stakeholders. These findings are discussed in light of the advancement of school-based career interventions at both practice and policy levels, emphasizing lifelong and comprehensive approaches.