Why see a Psychologist?

• Psychologists treat people who are experiencing distress or stress either in their personal lives, in their relationships, in their families or in their career. Psychological treatment needs to be shown to be effective either by research or validated by experienced practitioners through peer review.

• Psychologists also help people achieve personal growth through self awareness and through acquiring social skills.

• Psychologists help people solve personal problems by helping them to discover  the real solution which often is within themselves.

• Psychologists assess people through psychological testing.  Assessment includes intelligence testing, personality testing, aptitude testing and vocational testing.

• Psychologists write reports for court hearings and/or medico legal reports for Workcover and/or TAC.

What is a Psychologist?

A psychologist is someone who has completed a minimum of four years of University study and  two years of supervised training in the discipline and practice of Psychology.  A psychologist must be registered in the State in which they practice.  This safeguards clients because every registered psychologist is answerable to their State Registration Board for their treatment of and behaviour towards their clients.

What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?

Psychiatrists are people who firstly train as medical practitioners and then go on to study psychological medicine.  Their speciality is in treating people who need medication, hospitalisation or treatment of psychological problems that also involve a physical condition.

What is the difference between a Psychologist, a Counsellor and a Psychotherapist?

Only psychologists who do counselling and/or psychotherapy must have a minimum of six years training and be registered.  Anyone can call themselves a counsellor or psychotherapist.  There are reputable associations of counsellors and psychotherapists.  Check carefully their training and professional memberships if you are considering using their services.