A counselling psychologist and a clinical psychologist have completed a six-year university degree and undertaken an equivalent of two years of supervised practical training.
A registered psychologist has completed a four-year university degree and has obtained either a post-graduate university degree or completed an equivalent of two years of supervised practical training to obtain registration as a psychologist.
All psychologists (registered, counselling and clinical) must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia and meet high standards in education, training, and complete ongoing learning and development. All our psychologists have undertaken extensive training to assist with a variety of mental health concerns. Psychologists do not prescribe medication. Psychologists can be involved in therapy for adults of any age, adolescents and children, covering a broad range of mental health problems and diagnoses. Services can include behavioural management, emotional regulation, couples counselling, and anger management to name a few.
A provisional psychologist is nearing or has completed their tertiary qualifications and can undertake an program of supervision (internship) where they develop their applied skills. They have 5+ years of training at a tertiary level, but per registration regulations, need to have this internship where they are overseen by a fully registered psychologist. In this period they are in frequent discussion with their Board Approved supervisor to effectively support clients and draw on experience of senior clinicians. They have shorter wait times than fully registered psychologists, so it is an opportunity to access therapy faster.
A counsellor is experienced with a wide range or emotional/psychological difficulties. Although they are unable to diagnose, they use the same methodologies when it comes to coping and dealing with whatever the diagnosis may be. They can help with day-to-day stressors such as stress, relationship issues, anger, to more serious diagnoses such as depression, anxiety and issues such as trauma. They also typically have a shorter wait time than psychologists, so it is an opportunity to access therapy faster.
A social worker is trained to support families and individuals to improve wellbeing. They help individuals realise strengths and potential to overcome personal barriers. They have exposure to child wellbeing, protection, domestic/family violence, and alcohol and drug use. They undergo advanced training in mental health, and use a range of interventions to support their clients. They use a wholistic approach that covers psychological factors, and social and environmental factors. They have shorter wait times than psychologists, and therefore also offer opportunities for sooner appointments.
An ABA therapist is a therapist who is qualified in Applied Behavioural Analysis. ABA is used to improve children’s social, communication, and learning skills. Its frequently used to assist children with ASD. It offers support for behavioural development, and is shown to help achieve goals such as language difficulties, improved attention, social skills, reduction in problem behaviours etc. Our clinic is currently only equipped to assist children with ABA who are verbal.