Psychologists in Portugal report payment delays in government program

A group of 493 psychologists participating in a Portuguese government program for free consultations has denounced significant payment delays and service interruptions. The initiative, which launched on July 2, provides psychologist and nutritionist vouchers to young people aged 12 to 35.

Professionals report that they have not received the expected payment of 40 euros per consultation, despite a 90-day payment window having passed. Some practitioners have continued to provide services to prevent patients from going more than 30 days without support, even without receiving the vouchers.

The delays are also affecting patients. Some young people have been waiting since August to resume psychological follow-ups after their initial sessions, while others are unable to start treatment because the initial vouchers have not been issued. Psychologists warned that these interruptions could compromise the quality of therapeutic work and the clinical progress of beneficiaries.