While there can be considerable overlap in their areas of work, Psychiatrists are Doctors (Medical Practitioners) who primarily look after people who have (often, psychotic) mental illnesses such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder etc., and they are Specialists in the use of psychotropic medications.
Psychologists, on the other hand, counsel, and offer therapy to, people who have problems such as anxiety, stress, depression, phobias etc. These are emotional and behavioural problems experienced by people in the more general population, and they are problems that Psychologists may often be best trained and equipped to help remedy.
People consult psychologists for many reasons including
People also consult psychologists to improve areas in their life, to make good relationships better, to learn how to become better parent, for personal growth and career planning, to improve sports performance, and other areas of achievement in personal potential.
Psychologists may choose from many appropriate treatment methods one that best suits client’s needs personality and circumstances.
Psychologists often use techniques of interviewing and clinical testing to clearly identify the nature and the extent of problems and to decide on the best form of treatment.
Your psychologist should be able to tell you an approximate length of time you need to be in therapy for successful outcome.
Each member of the IPPP sets their own fee, based on actual costs of their own practice. Each practitioner will discuss the fees with you prior to the consultation.
If you consult a psychologist you may be eligible for insurance rebate under :
Rebate varies between different insurance companies/agencies.
Members of the Institute are bound by strict professional requirements to maintain clients confidentiality.
The provisions of the Federal Privacy Legislation and the
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency also apply.
All Psychologists must be legally qualified to practice.
They must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia.
The Institute of Private Practising Psychologists (IPPP) is a body of Psychologists in full-time practice and associates in part-time practice.
The Institute exists to maintain high standards of professional practice and competence and requires members to adhere to strict professional code of ethics.
Many members of the IPPP have obtained additional higher qualifications, beyond that which is required for professional registration as a psychologist, including training in hypnotherapy and other clinical techniques.
Members of the Institute are required to maintain continuing professional development, and many members have completed the IPPP Competency Training.
Current issue of Psychology Today
Emergency Contacts:
Lifeline: 131114
Acute Mental Health Services: 131465
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36
