What’s the difference between a counsellor and psychologist?
One of the most common questions I’ve been asked while on my book tour for PaperbackTherapy: Therapist-approved tools and advice for mastering your mental health is ‘what is the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?’.
It’s a subject I explore in the book because there is very little education around the differences for those who aren’t actively engaged with the industry, and yet knowing the difference can help you - the client - have a positive first experience with therapy.
The main differences between therapy practitioners is the type of methodology they use.
Counsellors take a more person-centred approach to therapy, encouraging clients to find ways to manage their own emotions through evidence-based techniques, and providing and identifying support for their clients’ wellbeing. Counsellors are experts in listening and helping clients to achieve their personal goals, and short-term solutions-focused strategies.
Psychologists take a more scientific approach, diagnosing and assessing more severe mental health problems, and encouraging clients (and sometimes family or carers) to join in the decision-making process relating to treatment. Psychologists are experts in the science of how people think, feel, behave and learn. They know all about the brain, memory, learning and processes concerning human development.
Each practitioner also studies for varying lengths of time, with counsellors doing an average tertiary education of three years versus a psychologist’s six. This is why the Australian Government currently recognises psychologists only under the Medicare Benefits Scheme, and why you can get a rebate for a psychologist’s appointment but not for a counsellor’s.
It’s important to note that the level of study and different expertise doesn’t mean that any one practitioner is ‘less than’ another. Your financial circumstances may mean you prefer to see a counsellor (who typically charge net-less or at least equal to a psychologist), or your care requirements may lean toward longer-term psychological care.
Many people don’t know that most psychologists and counsellors offer a free 10-minute consultation to see if they’re a good fit for the client.
If you’re unsure whether to seek out a counsellor or a psychologist, do some Google searching, ask your friends, or visit PsychologyToday to make a shortlist of therapists that you could have quick chat with - not letting the practitioner’s title get in the way. Instead, focus on their credentials:
Psychologists are regulated by the Psychology Board of Australia, which is supported by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), while
Counsellors are self-regulated and registered with associations such as the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).
No matter who you choose to seek mental health support with, remember that there is a therapist out there that’s right for you. They may not be your first, or even third, choice. But you will find the right one for you.
Good luck on your search!
This month I’m…
Reading: You Are Here by David Nicholls. A wonderful story about overcoming grief from loss of relationships by re-wilding and re-finding yourself, with others. I read it and listened to the audiobook, both as wonderful as each other. Highly recommend.
Viewing: The Olympics! I have been an incredible fan girl for all things women’s sports over the past two weeks, and am currently writing this blog bleary-eyed after the Women’s Gold Medal Match between team USA and team France. What. A. Nail-biter.
Following: Friends’ reading lists on GoodReads. I’ve been trying to limit my screen time (which can make me anxious when not consciously done), turning to long-form content instead. See ‘Reading’ above, and let me know on Instagram what’s on your TBR currently.
Something else I did:
Sat down with Osher Günsberg to record an episode for his podcast, Better Than Yesterday :) The interview will go live in a few weeks, so follow along at @bare__therapy to know when it’s live.
