Online training of psychologists for a career intervention with unemployed adults: A pilot study during the COVID-19 pandemic

In Portugal, career counsellors require significant training, especially in the career development field. Online training emerged as a solution during the pandemic, but the evidence of its effects is still uncertain. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effects of an online training course focused on a career psychological intervention model for unemployed adults. Eight female psychologists (Mage = 30.75; SD = 4.9) from different regions of the country participated in the training. The study used a Diagnostic Evaluation Questionnaire, Evaluation Worksheets, and a Qualitative Evaluation Questionnaire to assess the effects of the training. Results showed an increase in the trainees' knowledge and performance after the course and trainees reported their satisfaction with the training. However, they expressed the need for more practical examples. The study suggests that specialized, empirically validated training in career intervention may have important implications in increasing the quality of career interventions with unemployed individuals.