What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Counsellor? Whom should I see?

Mental health professionals is an umbrella term under which you will hear people call themselves ‘psychologist’  ‘counsellor’ ‘clinician’ ‘therapist.’ It can be quite confusing – sometimes even to me.

A psychologist is a professional who has completed a bachelor’s degree in psychology, an honours/ postgraduate degree (the thesis year), and a master’s in psychology. After completing a Masters, you need to further engage in supervised training. For example, after completing a Masters of Clinical Psychology, you need to engage in 2 years of supervised training to call yourself a ‘Clinical Psychologist.’ Until 2023, Psychologists could become registered by completing a 4+2 which is essentially 4 years of psychology degree and 2 years of internship. A counsellor is a professional who has done any degree in counselling – it could be a bachelor’s, graduate diploma, or masters.

They both are trained in mental health and different therapy modalities. Psychologists are particularly required to focus on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT). Psychologists are recognised under Medicare to provide services. This basically means when you pay to see a psychologist, you will get some rebate from the government.

The process to become registered as a psychologist is more rigorous and it is regulated by the Psychology Board of Australia. However, not one is better than the other.

I want to be assessed for ADHD or Autism, whom should I see?

If you want to be assessed for a mental health condition or a neurodevelopmental diagnosis then choose a psychologist as their training and scope of practice allows them to diagnose and provide an intervention/ support plan. However, please note that not all psychologists are trained in completing assessments hence never shy away from enquiring about your chosen psychologist’s scope of practice.

I am going through some relationship issues and just want to talk to someone

If you do not require a formal diagnosis and are just seeking talk therapy, you can choose a counsellor. Counsellors, like psychologists, also using therapy modalities like CBT as well as more person-centred approaches. They can provide support and guidance through a therapeutic lens.

If your counsellor’s observations indicate that you require further mental health support you can be referred to a Psychologist or a Psychiatrist by your general practitioner.

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Meghna Datta

Registered Psychologist

Megaview Psychology

Hi, I’m Meghna — a Registered Psychologist and Counsellor passionate about supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families through life’s challenges. My approach is neuroaffirming, trauma-informed, and person-centred, meaning I tailor each session to meet your individual needs—because there’s no one-size-fits-all in therapy.

I draw on evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness-based techniques, blending them to create a space that feels supportive and effective for you.

If you’d like to see whether we’re a good fit, I’d love to hear from you. You can contact me through my website www.megaviewpsychology.com.au or email me at megaviewpsychology@gmail.com.