Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the alarming issue of unqualified individuals posing as psychological counselors, particularly in Shanghai, leading to serious consequences for vulnerable youth [1][2][3]. Group 1: Industry Overview - The psychological counseling industry lacks a unified national standard for qualification, allowing individuals to easily enter the field without proper credentials [4][6]. - The absence of a national certification for psychological counselors has resulted in a proliferation of training programs that do not ensure quality or safety [1][5]. Group 2: Case Study - A specific case involving a fraudulent counselor, Sun, who falsely claimed extensive experience and qualifications, illustrates the dangers of the current system [1][2]. - Sun's actions led to criminal charges for child molestation, highlighting the severe risks posed to minors seeking help [2][7]. Group 3: Regulatory Challenges - The regulatory framework for psychological counseling is fragmented, with no clear authority overseeing the industry, complicating the identification of legitimate practitioners [7][8]. - Local authorities have begun to take action against fraudulent practices, but comprehensive oversight remains a challenge [7][8]. Group 4: Recommendations for Improvement - Experts suggest enhancing entry management for the industry, including thorough background checks on practitioners and regular public reporting on counseling services [8][9]. - Parents are encouraged to be proactive in understanding their children's psychological needs and verifying the credentials of counselors before engaging their services [9].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the issues surrounding a psychological consulting company that promises to resolve various adolescent problems but fails to deliver effective services, raising concerns about the industry's standards and practices [1][2][3]. Group 1: Company Practices - The consulting company claimed to solve a wide range of issues, including academic disengagement and substance use, but only communicated with parents rather than directly engaging with the children [1][2]. - The company employed a self-created "combination therapy" approach, emphasizing parental involvement without providing a clear treatment plan until payment was made [2][3]. - Contracts signed by clients included clauses that prevented refunds based on unsatisfactory results, leading to disputes when clients sought refunds after ineffective services [4][5]. Group 2: Industry Standards - The article points out that the psychological consulting industry has varying levels of professionalism, with some practitioners lacking the necessary qualifications to effectively address adolescent mental health issues [2][3]. - Experts emphasize that effective psychological counseling requires direct communication with both the child and the parents, and that short-term, intensive treatment is unlikely to yield significant results [3][5]. - There is a growing demand for psychological services among adolescents, but the industry is plagued by misleading marketing and inadequate service quality, making it difficult for consumers to discern reputable providers [3][5]. Group 3: Consumer Rights - Consumers are advised to be cautious of companies that promise guaranteed results and require large upfront payments, as these practices are often indicative of potential issues [3][5]. - Legal experts assert that consumers have the right to seek compensation for misleading advertising and that contracts cannot limit consumer rights under the Consumer Protection Law [5]. - Recommendations for consumers include verifying the credentials of practitioners and ensuring clear agreements regarding services and refund policies before engaging with psychological consulting services [5].