Reviewed by the Linked Anchor Allied Health clinical team · Last reviewed
The main differences
- Psychologists are registered with AHPRA and can provide psychological assessment and therapy for diagnosed mental health conditions.
- Counsellors are generally members of professional bodies such as ACA or PACFA and focus on emotional wellbeing, relationships and life challenges.
- Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Treatment Plan apply to psychologists, not counsellors.
When counselling may suit
- Grief and loss
- Stress, adjustment and life transitions
- Relationship and family difficulties
- Building coping skills and emotional regulation
- Wanting someone to talk to without a formal diagnosis
When psychology may suit
- Assessment or treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma or other mental health conditions
- Cognitive or psychological assessments
- Complex presentations alongside disability
Funding
Under a plan-managed or self-managed NDIS plan, counselling or psychology may be funded from capacity building supports when linked to plan goals. People can also pay privately, and some workplaces offer EAP sessions. Ask your plan manager which budget applies before you start.
This guide is general information only and is not individual clinical, legal or funding advice. Funding is subject to eligibility and plan rules.