Post by ffyn on Nov 8, 2024 18:48:38 GMT -5
Mental health professionals possess various qualifications and training. Some of which is regulated.
Counsellors
Offer talk therapy to enhance mental wellbeing. They might specialize in areas like cognitive behavioural therapy and suggest lifestyle changes but cannot prescribe medication. While some may have qualifications, it is not legally required. Accredited counsellors, such as those from the Christian Counsellors Association, typically need a bachelor's degree, experience, and ongoing professional development. Always inquire about a counsellor's memberships and experience before making an appointment.
Psychotherapists
Offer psychotherapy to explore how early experiences influence current thoughts and behaviours, especially those with a negative impact. They must be registered with their professional regulatory body which mandates completion of a tertiary qualification, and ongoing professional development requirements. When engaging a psychotherapist, it is advisable to request to see their annual practicing certificate.
Psychologists
Like counsellors, employ a variety of talk therapy techniques to enhance mental health. They are equipped to assist clients with short-term issues, such as periods of stress, as well as chronic conditions, including addiction and depression. However, psychologists do not have the authority to prescribe medication. To be legally recognized as a psychologist, an individual must be registered with their country or state’s psychologists’ regulatory body, which necessitates at least a master’s degree in psychology. Additionally, psychologists are required to engage in ongoing professional development. It is important to verify that your psychologist holds a current annual practising certificate.
Psychiatrists
Are registered medical doctors who diagnose and treat mental illnesses. They can prescribe medication, provide talk therapy, and make lifestyle recommendations. Their treatment plans might include sessions with a psychologist, psychotherapist, or counsellor. They must complete medical training, undergo several years of psychiatric training, register with their country or state’s Medical Council as a specialist, and engage in ongoing professional development. A GP/family doctor referral is needed to see a psychiatrist.
References:
Healthify – psychiatrist
healthify.nz/hauora-wellbeing/p/psychiatrist/#:~:text=A%20psychiatrist%20assesses%2C%20diagnoses%20and,child%20and%20adolescent%20psychiatry
NIMH Professionals Psychotherapies www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies#:~:text=Psychotherapy%20(also%20called%20talk%20therapy,emotions%2C%20thoughts%2C%20and%20behaviors.
NZCCP – what is a clinical psychologist
www.nzccp.co.nz/for-the-public/what/what-is-a-clinical-psychologist/
Very well mind -what therapists do and when to see one
www.verywellmind.com/what-is-a-therapist-2672019
Healthline what’s the difference between a psychologist and therapist? how to choose
www.healthline.com/health/psychologist-vs-therapist#qualifications
Counsellors
Offer talk therapy to enhance mental wellbeing. They might specialize in areas like cognitive behavioural therapy and suggest lifestyle changes but cannot prescribe medication. While some may have qualifications, it is not legally required. Accredited counsellors, such as those from the Christian Counsellors Association, typically need a bachelor's degree, experience, and ongoing professional development. Always inquire about a counsellor's memberships and experience before making an appointment.
Psychotherapists
Offer psychotherapy to explore how early experiences influence current thoughts and behaviours, especially those with a negative impact. They must be registered with their professional regulatory body which mandates completion of a tertiary qualification, and ongoing professional development requirements. When engaging a psychotherapist, it is advisable to request to see their annual practicing certificate.
Psychologists
Like counsellors, employ a variety of talk therapy techniques to enhance mental health. They are equipped to assist clients with short-term issues, such as periods of stress, as well as chronic conditions, including addiction and depression. However, psychologists do not have the authority to prescribe medication. To be legally recognized as a psychologist, an individual must be registered with their country or state’s psychologists’ regulatory body, which necessitates at least a master’s degree in psychology. Additionally, psychologists are required to engage in ongoing professional development. It is important to verify that your psychologist holds a current annual practising certificate.
Psychiatrists
Are registered medical doctors who diagnose and treat mental illnesses. They can prescribe medication, provide talk therapy, and make lifestyle recommendations. Their treatment plans might include sessions with a psychologist, psychotherapist, or counsellor. They must complete medical training, undergo several years of psychiatric training, register with their country or state’s Medical Council as a specialist, and engage in ongoing professional development. A GP/family doctor referral is needed to see a psychiatrist.
References:
Healthify – psychiatrist
healthify.nz/hauora-wellbeing/p/psychiatrist/#:~:text=A%20psychiatrist%20assesses%2C%20diagnoses%20and,child%20and%20adolescent%20psychiatry
NIMH Professionals Psychotherapies www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies#:~:text=Psychotherapy%20(also%20called%20talk%20therapy,emotions%2C%20thoughts%2C%20and%20behaviors.
NZCCP – what is a clinical psychologist
www.nzccp.co.nz/for-the-public/what/what-is-a-clinical-psychologist/
Very well mind -what therapists do and when to see one
www.verywellmind.com/what-is-a-therapist-2672019
Healthline what’s the difference between a psychologist and therapist? how to choose
www.healthline.com/health/psychologist-vs-therapist#qualifications