poradni

Poradna (pl. poradny) is a Czech term for an institution or service that provides advice and counseling to individuals or groups. It can be a physical space within a hospital, school, government office, nonprofit organization, or a stand‑alone facility, offering information, guidance, and support in personal, health, educational, legal, or social matters. The aim is to help clients understand options, make informed decisions, manage problems, and, when needed, obtain referrals to other professionals or services.

Poradny are staffed by professionals such as doctors, psychologists, social workers, teachers, lawyers, and trained counselors, depending on the type of service. Common examples include výchovná poradna (school guidance office), lékařská poradna (medical counseling), právní poradna (legal aid clinic), and rodinná poradna (family counseling). They may operate within public institutions (municipalities, health centers, schools) or non‑profit organizations, and services may be free or fee‑based. Confidentiality is typically a core principle of professional practice in poradny.

Services typically offered include individual counseling, information provision, problem‑solving support, workshops, and referrals to specialized services. Access procedures vary: some poradny require appointments, others offer walk‑in hours or online consultations. Poradny play a role in education, health care, social services, and community life by helping people understand their options and navigate complex systems.