Quick Summary — Counsellor vs Psychologist

• Counsellors support children with emotions, friendships, school worries, life changes and wellbeing challenges. They provide a warm, supportive space to talk and build coping skills.

• Psychologists are registered health professionals who provide assessment, diagnosis and treatment for more complex or clinically diagnosed mental health conditions.

• Choose a counsellor for emotional support, coping skills and everyday challenges.

• Choose a psychologist when assessment, diagnosis, reports or clinical treatment are required.

Both professionals can also work together to support your child’s wellbeing.

When your child needs emotional or wellbeing support, it can be difficult to know whether to see a counsellor or a psychologist. Both play an important role in supporting children’s mental health, but they have different training, areas of focus, and ways of working.

This guide explains the differences in a clear, parent-friendly way so you can make an informed decision about the type of support that may be most helpful for your child.

 What Does a Counsellor Do?

A counsellor supports children and young people to work through emotional, social and life-based challenges in a safe and supportive environment. Counselling may focus on areas such as anxiety, friendships, school stress, confidence, grief, family changes, or emotional regulation.

Counselling is often short- to medium-term, though some children benefit from ongoing support when appropriate. The focus is on building trust, developing coping strategies, and helping children understand and manage their feelings.

Counsellors commonly:

• use a gentle, child-centred and relationship-based approach

• support emotional wellbeing, resilience and confidence

• work collaboratively with parents, carers and schools (with consent)

• provide support in schools, community services and private practice

 What Does a Psychologist Do?

A psychologist is a registered health professional trained in assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. Psychologists often support children with more complex or clinically-diagnosed concerns such as anxiety disorders, depression, neurodevelopmental differences or trauma-related difficulties.

In Australia, psychologists must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia and meet strict education, supervision and practice requirements.

Psychologists commonly:

• complete psychological assessments and formal testing

• provide diagnoses where appropriate

• deliver structured, evidence-based therapies

• prepare reports for schools, health services, NDIS or other agencies

 Education and Training — A Simple Overview for Parents

Counsellors

• usually hold a Diploma, Bachelor or Master’s degree in counselling or a related field

• are encouraged to belong to a professional association (e.g., ACA or PACFA)

• follow ethical guidelines and engage in ongoing professional development

• work within a self-regulated professional framework

Psychologists

• complete at least six years of study and supervised practice

• are legally registered with AHPRA / Psychology Board of Australia

• the title “psychologist” is protected by law

Both professions require ethical practice and continuing professional development.

 Scope of Practice — How Support May Differ

Counsellors generally support children to:

• manage emotions, friendships and school-related worries

• build coping skills, resilience and self-confidence

• develop emotional awareness and communication skills

• navigate life changes and personal challenges

Psychologists are able to:

• conduct assessments and diagnostic testing

• develop treatment plans for complex or diagnosed conditions

• provide specialised clinical interventions

• prepare formal reports and documentation when required

Medicare and Rebates — What Parents Should Know

A key practical difference relates to funding and rebates.

• Psychologists can offer Medicare-subsidised sessions when a child has a Mental Health Treatment Plan from a GP.

• Counsellors currently do not receive Medicare rebates, although fees are often lower and access can be more flexible in some settings.

Some families choose counselling for early-intervention or wellbeing support, and psychology when assessment or diagnosis is needed.

Which Professional Is Right for My Child?

The most suitable option depends on your child’s needs.

A counsellor may be a good fit if your child:

• is experiencing worries, stress, friendship challenges or emotional difficulties

• would benefit from a warm, supportive space to talk and build coping skills

• needs support with resilience, confidence or emotional regulation

A psychologist may be more appropriate if your child:

• requires assessment, diagnosis or psychological testing

• is experiencing a complex or ongoing mental health condition

• needs reports for school, NDIS, medical or funding purposes

If you are unsure, it can be helpful to speak with a counsellor, GP, or school wellbeing staff member for guidance.

Do Counsellors and Psychologists Work Together?

Yes — and this can be very beneficial for children.
A child may see a psychologist for assessment and diagnosis, while also working with a counsellor for ongoing emotional support and coping strategies.

The two roles are complementary, not competitive.

Final Thoughts for Parents

Both counsellors and psychologists play important roles in supporting children’s wellbeing in Australia. While psychologists provide assessment and clinical treatment, counsellors offer accessible, relationship-based, early-intervention and wellbeing-focused support that helps children manage everyday challenges.

Understanding the difference can help you choose the type of support that feels right for your child and your family.

If you’re unsure which option may be best for your child, you’re welcome to get in touch — I’m happy to talk through your concerns and help you explore the next steps for support.

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