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Writer's pictureKierra Wilkinson

Understanding the Differences Between Counselors, Psychologists, and Psychiatrists

I often get asked “what is the difference between a counsellor and a psychiatrist?” and “can counsellors accept MHCP’s?” GP’s (who are typically the ones referring you) won’t often explain the difference to you in terms of support, capabilities and pricing, so here are the answers you are looking for!




In the vast landscape of mental health professionals, it's common to encounter terms like counselor, psychologist, and psychiatrist. While they all work within the realm of mental health, their roles, training, and approaches differ significantly. Understanding these differences can help individuals make informed decisions about their mental health care. Let's delve into the distinctions between counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists:


Counsellor

Counsellors, also known as therapists or psychotherapists, are professionals trained to provide guidance and support to individuals, couples, families, and groups facing various life challenges. They typically hold a degree in counselling or a related field and may specialise in a specific area. Counsellors employ talk therapy techniques (like CBT) to help clients explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, develop coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. Kierra (our Counsellor) holds s diploma of Counselling as well as a Psychology degree (read more on this below) and is trained in Gottman Couples Therapy. Sadly, Medicare do not yet recognise counsellors under the MHCP, which means that you will be out of pocket the for cost of therapy… However, counselling is charged at a much lower rate then psychology and psychiatry, so often the out of pocket cost for the client is roughly the same. Plus, you are not limited to the 10 sessions at a reduced rate as you would be under your MHCP. Overall, this is often the most affordable option even with a MHCP.


Psychologist

Psychologists are mental health professionals who hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology. They are trained in the science of human behavior, emotions, and mental processes. Psychologists assess and diagnose mental health disorders through various methods, including interviews, psychological tests, and observation. They provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families using evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or interpersonal therapy. Psychologists may also conduct research, teach at universities, or work in organizational settings, in addition to clinical practice. If you are looking for a MH diagnosis, a psychologist is most likely who you would want to see.


Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D. or D.O.) who specialize in mental health and psychiatric disorders. After completing medical school, they undergo specialized training in psychiatry, which includes diagnosing mental illnesses, prescribing medication, and providing psychotherapy. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists can prescribe medication to manage symptoms of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more. They often collaborate with psychologists, counselors, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to their patients. Psychiatrists work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and research institutions.


Key Differences

1. Education and Training: Counsellors typically hold degrees, psychologists have doctoral degrees in psychology, and psychiatrists are medical doctors specialised in psychiatry.

2. Scope of Practice: Counsellors focus on providing talk therapy and support through psychoeducation and guidance, psychologists offer therapy and psychological assessment (for a formal diagnosis), while psychiatrists are less focused on talk therapy but can prescribe medication in addition to therapy.

3. Approaches to Treatment: While all three professions may use therapy as a treatment modality, psychiatrists have the additional capability to prescribe medication to manage mental health symptoms.

4. Average fees (per hour): Counselling $110-$150; Psychology $280-300; Psychiatry $300-500.

*medicare rebate available for psychologist and psychiatrist


In conclusion, counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists play distinct but complementary roles in the mental health care landscape. The choice of which professional to see depends on individual needs, preferences, and the nature of the mental health concerns. Collaborative care among these professionals can offer comprehensive support and treatment for individuals striving to achieve mental wellness and overcome life's challenges.


I hope this helps answer some of your questions, please feel free to reach out if there is anything else you would like to know :)

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