Counsellor, Psychologist or Psychiatist?
Which one do I need?
If you’re looking for help for ADHD or autism in Australia but are unsure about who to go to, this guide will help you.
Each therapist helps in different ways, so here’s a breakdown of each one to help you decide what you need.
Counselling
Counselling provides support in a non-judgemental space to to help you understand what you’re experiencing. A counsellor will help you apply practical changes in your day to day live.
Counsellors are trained to use structured therapeutic frameworks like cognitive behavioural therapy. They can also assess and refer you to other services you may need and may provide reports.
You do not need a mental health care plan from a GP to access a counsellor.
Counsellors do not diagnose mental health conditions or prescribe medication.
Counselling helps with…
- Anxiety and overwhelm
- Trauma and emotional stress
- Autism and ADHD support
- Relationships and communication
- Identity and self-understanding
- Day-to-day coping strategies
Sessions will feel…
- Conversational and collaborative
- Goal-oriented
- More personalised using a combination of therapy models
Counselling focuses on…
- Feeling understood
- Building insight
- Finding strategies that actually fit your life
Psychology
Psychologists are trained to assess, diagnose and treat a condition. They will use structured therapeutic frameworks like cognitive behavioural therapy.
Some people find this helpful for clarity and direction, while others may find it feels more clinical.
You may need a referral from a GP to access a psychologist.
A psychologist can provide reports or diagnoses but does not prescribe medication.
Psychology can help with:
- Mental health diagnoses
- Structured therapies (e.g. CBT)
- Assessments (autism, ADHD, cognitive testing)
- Treatment plans for specific conditions
Sessions will feel…
- More structured
- Goal-oriented
- More clinical using specific therapeutic models
Counselling focuses on…
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Treatment of specific mental health conditions
Psychiatry
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health.
Their main role is diagnosis and medication management.
Psychiatrists will treat mental health conditions by prescribing medication and can provide reports or diagnosis.
You may need a referral from a GP to access a psychiatrist.
Psychiatry can help with:
- Diagnosing mental health conditions
- Prescribing and managing medication
- Complex or severe mental health concerns
Sessions will feel…
- Highly clinical with symptoms and diagnosis
- Medication reviews
- Treatment planning
- Shorter sessions
Psychiatry focuses on…
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Treatment of specific mental health conditions
- Medication management
So, what’s the difference between them?
Counsellor
Provides structured therapy to work through life experiences.
Psychologist
Assesses, diagnoses, and provides structured therapy.
Psychiatrist
Diagnoses, treats and manages medication.
Which One Should I Choose?
Well, you don’t have to limit yourself to one therapy. Some people will use a combination of professionals at different times, like a psychiatrist to manage medication and a counsellor for ongoing support.
Remember, the professional you choose will depend on your current needs. But your ultimate priority should be feeling supported and understood.
Are you looking for Counselling to help you with ADHD or Autism in Perth?
If you’re looking for NDIS or private counselling in Perth, click here to book an appointment with Leaha.