I read an article entitled “Psychologists union welcomes constitutional proposal on abortion” (TMID, 9 June), and was quite shocked to read that they could take such high moral and political ground over a human rights issue. The article quoted “for every individual has the right to develop his/her full potential and to live life to the full in respect and dignity”.

If the union believes this to be true then people also have the right, through counselling, to choose for themselves what is best for them to help them reach their goals and

aspirations.

For psychologists to be promoting any strong moral or political view which could influence their work with patients, I would suggest, is unethical at least and could do serious harm at worst.

As counsellors, our aims should be to encourage autonomy so individuals can take their own decisions. To do this we should avoid promoting any strong moral conviction.

We have a duty to always remain impartial to current affairs, to be non-judgmental over what actions people take, even though at times we may believe them to be wrong.

The reason why people worldwide with different beliefs and backgrounds have sought our help in the past, is due to our impartiality to political and moral issues prevailing at the time. Patients should be free to consider options that are best suitable for them and their family, and for social and economic reasons

Individuals and groups who seek our help in these matters will already be feeling such guilt, societal and personal.

These are very difficult times for them, they may bereave the lost child – if not at the time, later on. Or they may feel the shame of having a child out of marriage. Counselling can play a vital role here. The decisions a person makes should be respected.

If anything, counselling can be more helpful to these clients before decisions are made and I believe should be provided and financed by the government.

The patient should be helped to overcome the feelings of shame and guilt, helping her regain confidence and self-esteem, to live her life in “respect and dignity”. Psychologists are trained clinicians in helping people with a variety of conditions, dealing with strong emotional and behavioural problems.

It is not their aim to influence any particular moral or political judgement onto patients, and any attempt to do this should be discouraged. I would ask the MUPP to think again.

If anything those psychologists who have very strong views, whether moral, political or other over what a patient brings, should consider referring them to someone else who has proven to be impartial, non-judgmental and understanding in such matters.

This is an ethical guideline I would urge the MUPP to promote.

Barrie Pye MSC

Consultant counsellor (UK)

KALKARA