Counsellor vs Psychologist vs Psychiatrist (Australia): what's the difference?

Many Australians wonder whether they should see a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist to support them with their mental health needs or personal goals. While all three support mental health and wellbeing, their training, roles and approaches are different. Understanding these differences can help you decide what type of support best suits your needs.

Counsellors

Counsellors provide professional, talk‑based support for people navigating life challenges, emotional distress and periods of change. In Australia, people often see counsellors for stress, anxiety, burnout, grief, relationship concerns, work pressures and major life transitions.

Counsellors can vary in approach and areas of focus, some counsellors will see adults, some will see children, some will see individuals, couples, or even families. Sessions should be collaborative, supportive and guided by your goals.

In Australia, counselling is not a registered profession under AHPRA. However, qualified counsellors complete recognised tertiary training and often belong to professional associations such as PACFA or the ACA, which set ethical and professional standards.

People commonly choose counselling when they want:

• A confidential, supportive space to talk

• Help managing stress, anxiety or emotional overwhelm

• Support through life changes, loss or relationship challenges

• Greater self‑understanding and personal growth

You can explore my counselling approach and areas of focus here.

Psychologists

Psychologists are registered health professionals in Australia. They are qualified to assess, diagnose and treat mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and, in many cases, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), using evidence-based therapies.

People often see a psychologist for anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, or long‑standing mental health concerns. Psychologists may also provide formal assessments and reports.

Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health. In addition to providing therapy, they can prescribe medication, manage complex diagnoses and oversee treatment for more severe or high‑risk mental health conditions.

Psychiatrists often work as part of a broader care team and may see clients less frequently, focusing on diagnosis, medication and overall treatment planning rather than regular weekly therapy.

Which mental health professional is right for you?

There is no single right choice — it depends on what support you need right now.

• You might see a counsellor if you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or navigating life challenges and want supportive, talk‑based therapy. Counsellors are often less expensive than a psychologist, and because they don't work in the diagnosis space, it's often easier to get appointments. So, unless there is a specific reason to see a psychologist, a counsellor can support people in a variety of areas and may be suitable for your needs.

• You might see a psychologist if you're seeking structured, evidence‑based treatment that a counsellor doesn't offer or if you need an assessment or a formal diagnosis.

• You might be referred to a psychiatrist if medication, complex mental health conditions or specialist medical care is required.

  
  

Many people move between different types of support over time, and professionals often work collaboratively. If you're unsure where to start, speaking with your GP or if you think your needs might be met by seeing a counsellor, then reaching out to a counsellor like myself can be a helpful first step.