Important Information

There are differences in qualifications, training, and expertise between a Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, Counsellor, and others who possess a certificate in some form of therapy - often after attending a one or two-day workshop. 
 
A Clinical Psychologist must have a recognised post graduate degree in Clinical Psychology. Clinical Psychologists are formally trained in the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of mental health disorders. As part of their comprehensive training, Clinical Psychologists are qualified and experienced to practise in different areas of speciality including children, adolescents, adults, elderly, with families; and in different settings, e.g. general hospitals, psychiatric / mental health facilities, drug and alcohol treatment settings, forensic settings, community health settings, etc. By virtue of their comprehensive training, Clinical Psychologists possess the knowledge and experience across the range of psychological problems and therapies.
 
A Psychologist will have a degree in Psychology but does not possess specialist training in Clinical Psychology as mentioned above.
 
Some people advertise as practitioners of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy or other forms of Psychological Therapies, after attending one or two workshops. This does not mean they have formal training or qualifications in Clinical Psychology or Psychology (though some may possess a degree in Psychology). 

Counsellor - it is not a requirement for a counsellor to have a degree in Psychology.

When you contact any mental health practitioner, please ask:

• Where did you get your formal clinical training? In Australia or overseas?
• For how many years have you worked as a clinician?
• As part of your training, in what types of clinical settings were you posted (i.e., served as a clinical intern) to receive formal clinical supervision?
• In what clinical settings have you worked previously? And for how long?
• What types of clients / patients do you usually see?
• What do you consider your area(s) of clinical expertise?
• Are there any clinical areas you do not work in / do not possess appropriate expertise?

If you are referred by your General Practitioner (GP) or a Psychiatrist, please ask the referring doctor / psychiatrist if they are aware of the qualifications and expertise of the psychologist, clinical psychologist, counsellor; they are referring you to.