Different types of counsellors
Deciding what type of mental health provider you need, can be confusing. The right person for you will depend on many factors, from what goals you have to your availability and budget.
If you are not sure what type of therapist you need, talk to your GP who can recommend a therapist and discuss the different options.
No matter what type of mental health professional you choose to see, it is important to check their credentials, education and experience and ensure they are registered under a governing body.
Here we list the different kind of healthcare professionals who can provide psychological support and the best way to find one near you.
Counsellor and psychotherapist
Qualified, accredited counsellors and psychotherapists are highly trained healthcare providers working under the ethical governance of professional bodies such as the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia or the Australian Counselling Association. Trained to address psychological challenges in clients, all registered counsellors and psychotherapists must have a Bachelor or Master of counselling, psychotherapy or psychology and have a stipulated number of hours in practice. Some therapists will specialise in a particular model of treatment, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or Art Therapy. You do not need a referral to see a psychotherapist or counsellor. Find an accredited, registered counsellor near you at PACFA or at the Australian Register or Counsellors and Psychotherapists.
Psychologist
Able to assess client and diagnose mental health conditions, psychologists provide therapy using evidence-based models. Psychologists must have a minimum Master of psychology as well as accredited training and experience. Education includes how to analyse data and research on human behaviour and emotions through a psycho-medical lens. You can see a psychologist privately or be referred by your GP under a mental health treatment plan. Learn more about mental health treatment plans here.
Psychiatrist
Medical doctors specialising in mental health, psychiatrists assess and diagnose patients. They can prescribe medication and provide psychological talk therapy. More likely to treat people with mental health conditions, or with complex mental health needs, psychiatrists work in private and public practice and hospitals. You can see a psychiatrist privately or be referred by your GP under a mental health treatment plan.
Occupational therapist
Working with people of all ages, an occupational therapist (OT) provides tools, guidance and help in doing everyday tasks to improve or keep independence. Employed privately or in hospital, clinics and government organisations, OTs must have a degree in an approved program and be registered with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia to practice. OTs commonly work with people who need help with both physical and psychological stress and challenges. You do not need a referral to see an OT unless you want to claim some of the costs under a government funded scheme. Find an OT near you.
Social worker
Offering help with issues including but not limited to poverty, family violence, alcohol, homelessness and addiction, social workers assist families, individuals and community groups. As well as offering counselling, social workers can connect other health professionals with families or persons, provide support with court matters and assist with health referrals and applications. Degree-qualified, allied health professionals, social workers are provided by GP or hospital referral or through Services Australia.
Always check qualifications, accreditations and skills before seeing a therapist. All Working Well Counselling and Psychotherapy therapists are fully qualified and registered with PACFA.