Counsellor, Psychologist or Psychiatrist? Understanding the Differences in Mental Health Support
Navigating mental health care can be confusing, especially when you're not sure who does what. Whether you’re exploring support for anxiety, stress, depression, or simply want someone to talk to, understanding the difference between a psychiatrist, psychologist, and counsellor or psychotherapist can help you find the right fit for your needs.
At Home Mind Therapy, we support young adults across Brisbane and beyond through accessible, compassionate telehealth care. We believe informed choices lead to better outcomes, so let’s break down these roles and how they can help you.
Counsellor or Psychotherapist: Talking Therapy and Emotional Support
Counsellors and psychotherapists are trained in talk-based approaches to support mental health, wellbeing, and personal development. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, the training and experience of counsellors can vary widely in Australia.
Some have university qualifications in counselling or psychotherapy, while others may hold diplomas or certifications. Reputable practitioners are often registered with a professional body like the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or PACFA. At Home Mind Therapy, we are proud members of the Australian Counselling Association.
Counsellors can:
Offer a safe, supportive space to explore emotions and life challenges.
Help with stress, grief, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or life transitions.
Use therapeutic approaches tailored to your needs (e.g. person-centred therapy, mindfulness, narrative therapy).
Counselling is often more accessible, with no referral needed and flexible pricing, although Medicare rebates usually do not apply. That said, the gap payment with a rebate and psychologist usually works to be the same or more expensive than a counsellor’s flat rate.
Psychologist: Evidence-Based Therapy and Assessments
A psychologist holds a degree in psychology and is trained in how people think, feel, and behave. They specialise in talk therapy, behaviour change strategies, and psychological assessments.
In Australia, registered psychologists are regulated by AHPRA and must follow strict ethical and professional standards.
Psychologists can:
Provide evidence-based therapy like CBT, ACT or DBT.
Help with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, or stress.
Conduct assessments (like cognitive testing, ADHD assessments, etc.) and can diagnose conditions.
Psychologists cannot prescribe medication but may work alongside your GP or psychiatrist as part of a care team. Many sessions are Medicare-rebatable under a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP.
Psychiatrist: The Medical Doctor for Mental Health
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (with an MBBS) who has completed specialist training in psychiatry. Psychiatrists can diagnose complex mental health conditions and are the only mental health professionals who can prescribe medication in Australia.
Psychiatrists can:
Diagnose mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and severe depression.
Prescribe and manage psychiatric medication.
Provide medical oversight for mental health care, often working alongside psychologists or GPs.
You typically need a referral from a GP to see a psychiatrist, and appointments are usually covered (in part) by Medicare.
Mental health care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Understanding the roles of psychiatrists, psychologists, and counsellors gives you more confidence to take the next step that feels right for you. No matter where you’re starting from, help is available.