The Difference Between Psychologists & Counsellors
When it comes to personal therapy, one of the most common questions asked is 'what’s the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?'
If you’ve ever jumped online to search for a therapist, you’ll know that it can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Research tells us how important the connection between the therapist and client is in driving positive outcomes, even more so than the techniques or methods used by the therapist. So, when it comes to finding the right therapist for you, it’s important to be discerning about who you choose to work with.
Understanding the roles of psychologists and counsellors is the first step towards finding the support you need. When searching for mental health care professionals, you'll encounter a spectrum of variations and overlaps in the type of work and clinical approaches offered.
When I started writing this blog, I had a lot of difficulty clarifying the distinctions between a psychologist and a counsellor. I came to realise that it’s because both professionals can end up in the same settings, and both can have very similar approaches to therapy AND can also be distinctly different.
To provide clarity, let's start by looking at their training and education (see image below).
What are their similarities?
Both psychologists and counsellors extend their expertise beyond one-on-one therapy, contributing to a diverse range of professional settings. They provide support, guidance, and therapeutic interventions to help individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges.
They both:
Have training in the science of human behaviour, emotions, and cognition.
Can treat severe mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, personality disorders, and more.
What are their differences?
Counsellors:
Do not conduct diagnosis or assessment.
Work in various settings such as non-profit organisations, government departments, schools, helpline services and private practice settings.
Emphasise fundamental listening skills, empathy, and positive regard in their training.
Psychologists:
Specialise in diagnosis and assessment, such as ADHD and ASD.
Work within a medical framework, offering comprehensive treatment plans tailored to client needs.
Collaborate with corporations, educational institutions, and forensic settings.
Approaches and Scope
Despite these differences, psychologists and counsellors share the overarching goal of facilitating personal growth and healing. Both professions draw from a diverse range of therapeutic modalities to address clients' unique needs, whether grappling with past traumas, relationship struggles, existential questions, and more. You will find both in private practice settings.
Regulatory Framework
Psychologists are required to be registered by the governing body, Australian Register of Psychologists and Psychological Associates (APHRA), ensuring adherence to study requirements and ethical practice standards. This registration validates their qualifications and ensures professional accountability.
Counsellors, on the other hand, may choose to join professional associations like, Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) or Australian Counselling Association (ACA), which uphold professional standards and best practices. Although not mandated by law, membership in such associations signifies a commitment to ethical conduct and ongoing professional development.
Where does the Mental Health Care Plan Fit Into All This?
GPs can refer patients to psychologists through a Mental Health Treatment Plan, making the sessions eligible for Medicare rebates.
In Australia, Medicare rebates for counselling sessions are generally available if the counsellor is a mental health social worker.
Read more about Mental Health Care Plans HERE.
It’s important to do your research regarding practitioner fees because the out-of-pocket cost to see a Psychologist is often little or no different from seeing a Counsellor post the Medicare rebate. In other words, it can potentially cost you the same to see a Counsellor despite not being able access Medicare subsides sessions with them).
Cost Considerations
The costs associated with seeing a psychologist versus a counsellor can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as qualifications, experience, and therapeutic approaches.
Be Clear on Your Therapy Goals
Be clear on what you hope to achieve through therapy, whether it's managing stress, improving relationships, coping with a specific issue, or gaining self-awareness and personal growth.
