Psychology Place

What is the difference between psychology, psychotherapy, counselling and psychiatry?

The disciplines of psychology, counselling,  psychotherapy and psychiatry share some similarities in that they all aim to assist individuals engaging with psychological and emotional distress. However, they are also strikingly different in some aspects of their training, accreditation and approach to this work. A brief explanation of the differences is provided below.

1. Psychologists are university trained and subject to government accreditation requirements. They deal with a broad range of issues, and may offer specifically focussed, evidence-based treatments, as well as broader counselling and psychotherapy services. Psychologists services are medicare rebatable subject to referral by a GP, and may also be subject to private health fund rebates.
2. Counsellors are generally trained in counselling theory and skills. They work in a wide variety of settings conducting both short and medium term work. They are not subject to government regulation but may be members of a professional organisation covering their particular discipline.
3. Psychotherapists come from a range of backgrounds including psychology, social work, counselling and psychiatry. Their psychotherapy training may be part of their basic discipline training or may be undertaken subsequently. They generally work at greater depth and thus psychotherapy is likely to be a medium to long-term commitment.
4. Psychiatrists are medically trained and offer diagnostic evaluation services and a treatment program of drugs or psychological therapy. They may also provide counselling or psychotherapy services. Psychiatrists are medicare rebatable subject to a GP referral.

Our clinic is staffed by individuals trained and accredited in clinical psychology, psychotherapy and relationship counselling. Our services are medicare rebatable subject to an appropriate referral from a GP.