Both counsellors and psychologists provide counselling to clients, however their training and approach can have some important differences. At Melbourne Psychology & Counselling all our treating clinicians (counsellors and psychologists) share a deep interest in you as a person, a warm and empathic approach, and training in their areas of interest to help you with a range of emotional, life, mental health and psychological concerns.

​

A counsellor tends to work from a person-centred approach; they will often start by listening to the client’s concerns and helping the client to cope with their current difficulties and experiences. Counsellors support people who are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of mental illness, and can be a great help in assisting you to manage difficult situations and experiences, such as life transitions (becoming parents, retiring, the end of a relationship or grief), difficulties with drug and alcohol use, low self-esteem, questioning sexual or gender identity, anxiety and depression, and relationship difficulties. The counsellors at Melbourne Psychology and Counselling have completed (or are completing) an accredited course in counselling at a university and are eligible for registration with the relevant peak body (i.e., Australian Counselling Association and/or PACFA).

 

A psychologist is trained in assessment and diagnosis and treatment of mild to severe mental health issues, in addition to working with the above mentioned areas. They make use of counselling skills, as well as using methods such as CBT and other evidence-based therapies to address symptoms. A psychologist will often commence therapy by conducting a comprehensive assessment and diagnosis (if required). A psychologist is typically specifically trained in helping clients who are experiencing mild to severe mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, eating disorders, PTSD, and other disorders.