Introduction:
If you’re passionate about mental health and thinking about a career helping others, you’ve probably come across the terms psychologist, counsellor, and therapist — but what exactly do they mean? Are they the same? How do their roles differ? And what kind of education do you need for each?
Understanding these differences is essential when choosing your education pathway and career. This blog breaks down the distinctions clearly, so you can confidently decide which profession aligns with your interests, skills, and goals.
What is a Psychologist?
Definition and Role
A psychologist is a highly trained mental health professional who assesses, diagnoses, and treats a wide range of psychological disorders and emotional difficulties. Psychologists use evidence-based therapies and psychological testing to help clients manage mental health conditions, improve wellbeing, and change behaviours.
Education and Training
- Minimum of a Master’s degree or Doctorate (PhD or PsyD) in psychology.
- Registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) as a registered psychologist.
- Often specialise in clinical, counselling, educational, forensic, or organisational psychology.
What Psychologists Do
- Conduct psychological assessments and testing.
- Provide therapy for complex mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or schizophrenia.
- Develop treatment plans based on research and clinical evidence.
- Work in hospitals, private practice, schools, government agencies, and research institutions.
Career Highlights
- Can diagnose mental health disorders and prescribe referrals to psychiatrists (but cannot prescribe medication themselves).
- Usually required for complex or severe mental health issues.
- High earning potential with advanced qualifications.
What is a Counsellor?
Definition and Role
A counsellor is a professional who provides support and guidance to individuals dealing with personal, social, or emotional challenges. Counselling focuses on helping clients explore feelings, improve coping skills, and make positive life changes.
Education and Training
- Diploma, Bachelor’s, Graduate Diploma, or Master’s degree in counselling or related fields.
- Professional membership with bodies like the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) (not government regulated).
What Counsellors Do
- Provide talk therapy and emotional support for issues like grief, relationship problems, stress, and life transitions.
- Use a range of therapeutic approaches such as person-centred, cognitive-behavioural, or narrative therapy.
- Often work in community health, schools, non-profits, private practice, or workplaces.
Career Highlights
- Focuses on practical support and short- to medium-term therapy.
- Often more accessible and affordable than psychology services.
- Ideal for people wanting to support mental wellbeing and personal growth without extensive clinical training.
What is a Therapist?
Definition and Role
The term therapist is broader and less regulated; it can refer to anyone who provides therapeutic services, including counsellors, psychologists, social workers, or psychotherapists.
Education and Training
- Varies widely depending on the specific profession (could be diploma, degree, or postgraduate training).
- Psychotherapists often undertake advanced training focusing on deeper psychological healing and integration.
What Therapists Do
- Use talk therapy and other therapeutic techniques to address emotional and mental health issues.
- May specialise in areas like art therapy, music therapy, family therapy, or trauma therapy.
- Often work in private practice, clinics, hospitals, or holistic health settings.
Career Highlights
- Flexible term that covers many types of counselling and psychological support roles.
- Allows for specialisation in creative or alternative therapeutic approaches.
- Can overlap with counselling and psychology depending on qualifications.
Key Differences at a Glance
Aspect | Psychologist | Counsellor | Therapist |
Education | Master’s/Doctorate in Psychology | Diploma to Master’s in Counselling | Varies widely (counsellor, psychotherapist, etc.) |
Regulation | Registered with AHPRA | Membership with ACA/PACFA (not govt regulated) | Varies by profession |
Scope of Practice | Diagnosis, assessments, clinical therapy | Emotional support, guidance, talk therapy | Broad therapeutic interventions |
Work Settings | Hospitals, clinics, research, private practice | Community centres, schools, private practice | Clinics, holistic health, private practice |
Specialisation | Clinical, educational, forensic, organisational psychology | Family, school, addiction counselling, trauma support | Art therapy, family therapy, trauma therapy, etc. |
Treatment Focus | Complex mental health disorders | Personal growth, coping, emotional support | Varied depending on training |
Client Access | Often via referral or private fees | More direct and accessible | Depends on type and setting |
How to Choose Your Path
- Interested in clinical diagnosis and research? Psychology is your path.
- Want to provide practical support and build strong client relationships? Counselling may be ideal.
- Interested in creative or specialised therapy approaches? Explore psychotherapy or specific therapy training.
- Consider your desired education commitment and career goals when deciding.
Ready to start your journey in mental health?
Understanding the differences between psychologists, counsellors, and therapists helps you align your passions and strengths with the right education and career path. Each profession plays a vital role in mental health support, offering unique ways to make a difference.
Whether you pursue a psychology degree, counselling diploma, or specialised therapy training, your work will contribute to improving wellbeing and fostering resilience in individuals and communities.
Contact us to explore accredited courses, career advice, and pathways to become a counsellor, psychologist, or therapist in Australia!
