Clinical psychologist/ psychologist/ counsellor/ therapist/ psychotherapist/ psychiatrist- What's the difference?!
I am often getting ask this by friends who are choosing therapists, or even clients who are looking for someone to start with. I've written this short guide to help you understand the differences.
Defining Key Terms
Psychotherapy- Psychotherapy, commonly known as therapy is an umbrella term. It is the use of psychological methods, particularly when based on regular personal interaction, to help a person change behaviour and overcome problems in desired ways.
Therapist- A therapist is an umbrella term that encompasses professionals trained in psychotherapy, including psychologists, counsellors, and psychotherapists. They use talking therapy to help individuals manage a wide range of mental health issues and personal challenges
Psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (has gone through medical school, 2 foundation years with 3 years speciality training) who specialises in mental health and is qualified to diagnose and treat mental health disorders primarily with medications. In the UK, they must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC).
Clinical Psychologist. Clinical psychologists hold a Doctorate degree in psychology (Ph.D. or Dclinpsy) and are trained extensively in psychological theories, clinical practice, and research. Their education typically spans 7-10 years beyond undergraduate studies. In the UK, "Clinical Psychologist" is a legally protected title, and professionals must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to use this title. Click here to check they are registered.
Psychologist.The term "psychologist" can refer to individuals who study cognitive, emotional, and social processes by observing, interpreting, and recording how people relate to one another and their environments. However, not all psychologists provide therapy. Those who do may sometimes specialise in areas other than clinical psychology, such as educational, developmental, or industrial-organisational psychology.
Counsellor: Counsellors generally possess a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology or a related field of counselling. The term counsellor is not a protected title so it's crucial to choose a counsellor who is certified by a recognised body, such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or the UK Counselling for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Counselling offers a reflective therapy approach where counsellors aid individuals in discussing and processing their challenges in an open and agenda-free environment. In counselling sessions, the aim is for you to uncover your own solutions through dialogue, contrasting with clinical psychologists who might recommend specific strategies. Counsellors often assist individuals dealing with mild to moderate mental health issues, and typically do not handle more severe presentations
Choosing the Right Professional
When deciding between a clinical psychologist and a counsellor, consider the depth and complexity of the issues at hand. A 50 minute session with a qualified Clinical psychologist will usually range from £100-150. It can also be more than this depending on the specialism and experience of the clinical psychologist. A session with a counsellor will usually range between £50-80 for a 50 minute session, but again prices will vary depending on experience and additional qualifications.
If you're dealing with severe mental health symptoms, a clinical psychologist is equipped to provide a diagnosis and treatment plan suitable for more profound psychological issues. For managing life's challenges, stress, and personal development within a supportive framework, a counsellor might be the appropriate choice.
Conclusion
Knowing the distinctions between these roles and their methodologies can significantly impact your choices in seeking mental health support. Whether you choose a clinical psychologist or a counsellor depends on your specific needs and the nature of the challenges you are facing. Many offer a 15 minute free consultation, which is a great way of assessing whether you connect with someone.
