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what is the difference between these therapies- confused

startingnew
Community Member

hi guys im confused with the differences in therapists...

what is the difference between a psychotherapist, clinical psychologist and just psychologist?

4 Replies 4

blondguy
Champion Alumni
Champion Alumni

Hi SN

Good question and always great to see you too.

Just various names that describe their own profession. They are all qualified Psychologists.

They all have the same qualification 🙂

we are happy to be here for you sn

Paul

thanks Paul its been a rough one lateley

romantic_thi3f
Blue Voices Member
Blue Voices Member

Hi startingnew,

There are actually a few differences in these careers;

First, a psychologist. All psychologists working in Australia must be licensed. They have University accreditation with a Bachelor's degree covering study of the mind. Out of the three professions you've described, this is the most common one that people go to.

A clinical psychologist is a psychologist that has done additional training at University (a Masters degree) specialising in mental health; such as learning more about therapies or mental illness. As such they often cost more than a psychologist.

A psychotherapist unfortunately does not have to be licensed. They are pushing for it to be mandatory but it often means clients need to check that people have done some study. They may be Psychology graduates or only do a shorter University course.

Although all of these people can focus on different things happening in your life, a psychotherapist is more interested in the 'sense of self', and the things that shape us; like our childhood or any trauma. They are also more likely to have long-term clients.

thanks heaps

im currently in a suicide prevention program and im seeing a clinical psychologist who is using psychotherapy therapies