PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS OF EXPERIENCING PROFESSIONAL CRISES AND THE SUSPENSION OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT AMONG COUNSELING PSYCHOLOGISTS

Abstract

The study focuses on the analysis of professional crises among psychologist-consultants, which represent a significant phenomenon in occupational and developmental psychology. A professional crisis is defined as a multidimensional phenomenon arising at the intersection of the specialist’s internal resources and the demands of the professional environment. The article examines leading theoretical approaches to crisis analysis, including D. Super’s life and career development model, the concepts of E. Ginzberg and D. Holland, H. Selye’s stress theory, and the professional burnout frameworks of K. Maslach and S. Jackson. The researchers highlight psychological factors contributing to crises, such as the disharmony between professional roles and personal values, emotional exhaustion, low self-esteem, and limited reflexivity. Organizational factors also play a significant role, including lack of institutional support, restricted career prospects, work overload, and low remuneration. A table systematizes internal, motivational, and organizational factors that impede career development. Empirical data from an online survey of 78 psychologist-consultants confirm the complexity of crisis phenomena: 45% of respondents identified emotional workload as the primary factor, 25% cited misalignment between personal values and professional activities, and 20% indicated insufficient competencies. The most effective strategies for overcoming crises were recognized as supervision and intervision (40%), professional competence enhancement (30%), and work on emotional regulation (20%). Particular attention is paid to practical aspects of consultant activities, adaptation to diverse audiences, and the use of modern career support technologies, which enhance professional resilience and reduce the risk of crisis experiences. The article demonstrates that integrating theoretical approaches, psychological mechanisms, and practical strategies enables effective professional development and minimizes the negative consequences of crises among psychologist-consultants.