School Psychologist in Inclusive Education: Contributions and Perspectives of the Profession in Brazil

Abstract

This study reflects on the contributions brought by the school psychologist to inclusive education, and discuss, albeit briefly, the future prospects of the profession in Brazil. For this purpose, a theoretical-documentary, reflexive-critical study was carried out. Data were collected from national and international sources, such as: books, journal articles, websites, legislation and official documents. This text is divided into four sections: a) The context of inclusive education in Brazil: a brief historical overview and legal milestones; b) Brief reflections on school psychology and its intersection with inclusive education in Brazil; c) Contributions of the school psychologist in Brazilian inclusive education: from the paths taken to the challenges; and d) Final reflections on the performance of the school psychologist in Brazilian inclusive education: achievements, challenges and future prospects. Based on this discussion, inclusive schools can only thrive in the country if we confront discriminatory practices and create alternatives to them, thus placing inclusive education in the center of school community debates. In such a process, the psychologist and the school play an important role in overcoming and changing this logic of exclusion. In this regard, the school psychologist in their future professional practice must use assessment methods to identify the strengths and needs of students with disabilities, so that they can develop effective interventions, services and programs to promote school inclusion.

Keywords: Psychologist Performance; School Psychology; Inclusive Education; History of Psychology-Brazil; Psychology-Theory