While they have several similarities, counsellors, therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists have all received different credentials and training. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the differences to provide you with the information you need to get the right support.

Psychologists

Psychologists have completed studies on the mind and human behaviour in great detail during their required six years of university training, including supervised experience. They enter the profession with a high level of knowledge and skill, and many have additional postgraduate qualifications in areas of psychology, such as assessing, diagnosing and treating mental illness, behavioural problems and emotional disorders.

Psychologists are the only professionals specially trained in the research and development of psychological tests used to assess these conditions. They aren’t authorised to prescribe medication, but they can provide non-medication treatments and approaches that scientific evidence has proven to be effective to assist their clients.

You won’t be expected to provide a referral from a GP or psychiatrist to see a psychologist. However, you will need a Mental Health Treatment Plan from a GP in order to claim rebates through Medicare or utilise the Access to Allied Psychological Services (ATAPS) program.

Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists have studied general medicine for six years and have a degree in medicine, followed by further training to specialise in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental illness, behavioural problems and emotional disorders.

Like your family health care providers, they typically work in medical settings, such as hospitals, clinics and private practice. Psychiatrists are interested in the mental and physical factors contributing to psychological disorders and conduct assessments and tests to diagnose the right treatment. Your GP might suggest a psychiatrist if your mental health concerns are more severe.

They can also prescribe medications for the treatment of difficulties and problems. Some combine medication, such as anti-depressants with other forms of therapy and many work in cooperation with psychologists providing non-medication therapies.

If you want to make an appointment with a psychiatrist, you will need a referral from a GP.

Counsellors & therapists

The term “counsellor” is used to describe various professionals who may have a range of backgrounds in offering types of talk therapy. Psychologists, nurses, occupational therapists and social workers may be referred to as counsellors but that doesn’t mean they all have training in assessing and treating mental health conditions. However, counsellors may have a Master or Bachelor of counselling degree to help with more serious mental health problems.   

It’s also worth noting that the titles “counsellor”, “therapist” and “psychotherapist” are not regulated in Australia. That means there are no legal restrictions on using these titles and anyone can choose to use them regardless of their level of training, qualification, skill and experience. They aren’t obliged to engage in ongoing education or follow specific codes of conduct, making it crucial to ask for information about their background before choosing their services and care.    

If you’d like to find a registered mental health provider to discuss your health concerns, head over to the Yellow Pages listings page today.