Psychologist? Counsellor or Social Worker?

Which Mental Health Professional is Right for You?

People seek therapy for many reasons. While some may have been referred by their GP for mental health support, others may search for someone themselves. Finding the right therapist can be challenging with so many mental health professionals available. It’s crucial to choose someone who aligns with your needs and goals. This guide will help you navigate the process and make an informed decision.

Start by Asking Yourself a Few Questions:

1. What issues do I need help with?
2. What are my goals for therapy?
3. How often can I attend sessions?
4. Do I need long-term therapy or short-term help for a recent issue?
5. How much can I afford to spend on therapy?

If you have ever felt puzzled by all the different types of therapists out there you’re not alone🤨

All therapists are not the same! 🚫🤨 Whether it’s your body or mind, different experts have got you covered. From GPs to psychotherapists, finding the right support is like matching your needs to the right specialist. Do they work with trauma? Maybe you would like someone who incorporates art into sessions or thinks about things from a relational perspective. Maybe your mental health is good, and you’d like to focus on increasing productivity or motivation. Maybe you’re having issues with your family or a partner.

Mental health is personal. What works for one might not work for another. It’s all about finding who matches your vibe and needs.

The Importance of Connection and Trust

One of the most crucial factors in effective therapy is the relationship you build with your therapist. It’s important to find someone you feel comfortable with, who is accepting, kind, and empathetic. This connection can significantly impact how helpful you find the therapy process. 

Matching Expertise with Your Needs

When searching for a therapist, look for someone who understands and specialises in the area you need support with. Here are some examples:

• Eating Disorders
• Relationships
• Couples Therapy
• PTSD
• Anxiety

A general rule of thumb in finding the best therapist for you is to search for a therapist who understands and has expertise in the area you are seeking support for. 

Mental Health Professionals in Australia

There are many types of mental health professionals you can consider:

• Accredited Mental Health Social Workers
• Registered Social Workers
• Clinical Social Workers
• Registered Counsellors
• Mental Health Occupational Therapists
• Family Therapists
• Couples Therapists
• Psychologists
• Clinical Psychologists
• Psychiatrists
• Art Therapists
• Play Therapists
• Outdoor Therapists

Each type of therapist has different educational backgrounds and specialisations, but all focus on improving mental health. No one therapist can have expertise in all areas, so it’s crucial to ensure they work in the field you need help with.

Descriptions of Common Mental Health Professionals

Accredited Mental Health Social Workers (AMHSW)

Accredited Mental Health Social Workers (AMHSW) at The Therapy Hub are highly skilled professionals who have completed extensive training and meet rigorous standards. They offer specialised mental health services, and their qualifications include:

• Education: AMHSWs complete a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work.
• Accreditation: They undergo additional training and sit an exam to become accredited in mental health social work.
• Specialised Training: They receive extra training in therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
• Ongoing Training: AMHSWs engage in continuous professional development and meet supervision requirements to stay current with best practices in mental health care.
• Approach: They focus on providing evidence-based psychological strategies and counselling to support individuals dealing with various mental health issues.

Clinical Psychologists

A clinical psychologist has the foundational training of a general psychologist but goes further with advanced education and supervised practice. Here’s a brief overview of their qualifications:

• Education: Clinical psychologists complete a Master’s or Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.
• Supervised Practice: After their postgraduate degree, they undergo a two-year registrar program involving intense supervision and practical experience.
• Ongoing Training: Like all psychologists, clinical psychologists engage in continuous professional development to stay current in the evolving field of mental health.
• Specialisations: Some clinical psychologists at The Therapy Hub provide formal diagnostic assessments, including ADHD and Autism assessments.

General Psychologists

General psychologists focus on understanding and improving mental health through various therapeutic techniques. They often deal with a wide range of issues from anxiety and depression to relationship problems. Here’s an overview of their qualifications:

• Education: General psychologists typically complete a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology followed by a Master’s degree or other postgraduate training.
• Approach: They use evidence-based practices to help clients manage and overcome mental health challenges.
• Ongoing Training: Like clinical psychologists, general psychologists engage in continuous professional development to keep up with advancements in the field.

Registered Counsellors

Registered counsellors typically hold a degree in counselling and are trained in various therapeutic techniques to support individuals dealing with a range of issues, from stress and anxiety to relationship difficulties. Here’s what you can expect:

• Education: Counsellors usually complete a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Counselling and/or Psychotherapy.
• Approach: They focus on talk therapy, offering a supportive environment to explore personal challenges.
• Ongoing Training: Counsellors are committed to professional development and often specialise in specific areas like grief, trauma, or family dynamics.

Family Therapists

Family therapists specialise in working with families and couples to improve communication and resolve conflicts. Their approach considers the family unit as a whole. Here’s an overview:

• Education: Family therapists often have a background in psychology, social work, or counselling, with specialised training in family therapy.
• Approach: They use various techniques to address issues within the family structure, promoting healthier interactions.
• Ongoing Training: Like other therapists, family therapists engage in continuous education to stay updated with the latest practices.

Registered Social Workers

Registered social workers at The Therapy Hub focus on helping individuals improve their mental health and wellbeing. They are well-trained in providing counselling and meet all professional development and supervision requirements. Depending on their specialisation, they may work in additional specific areas. Here’s what they offer:

• Education: Social workers complete a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work.
• Approach: They provide counselling and therapeutic support tailored to individual needs.
• Ongoing Training: Social workers at The Therapy Hub engage in continuous education and professional development to remain effective in their practice. They receive regular supervision to ensure the highest standard of care.
• Specialisations: Depending on their specialisation, they may work in areas such as family therapy, couples therapy, or trauma support.

Questions to Ask Potential Therapists

It’s okay to ask potential therapists questions to determine if they’re the right fit for you. Consider asking:

• What is your training?
• Are you regulated by a professional body?
• How can I make a complaint if needed?
• What are your fees?
• Do you have experience working with my specific issues?

Professional Standards at The Therapy Hub

At The Therapy Hub, all our therapists are registered, well-trained, and highly skilled. Whether you’re seeing an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Psychologist, Counsellor, or Registered Social Worker, our therapists are committed to providing the highest standard of care. This involves continuous education, professional development, and regular clinical supervision to ensure they offer the best support for your mental health needs.

Finding the right therapist is a personal journey. What works for one person may not work for another. By asking yourself the right questions and ensuring a good match between your needs and the therapist’s expertise, you can find a mental health professional who can support your journey towards wellbeing. It’s okay to ask questions and take your time finding someone who is the right fit for you.

Want to learn more?

Get in touch with us! 

By Marie Vakakis

Marie Vakakis is a skilled therapist at The Therapy Hub, and mental health educator who helps couples build trust, commitment, and meaningful rituals of connection. Her compassionate approach supports couples in deepening their bonds and creating fulfilling relationships.