In Australia, both clinical and registered psychologists are highly trained professionals who support mental health, but they have some key differences.
A registered psychologist holds a general registration with the Australia Health
Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), meaning they have completed the
required four years of university studies and two years’ supervised practice. This allows them to provide a wide range of psychological services, and they may work across various areas like counselling, workplace psychology, or general mental health care.
A clinical psychologist has gone a step further with additional postgraduate qualifications - usually a Master's or Doctorate – and has advanced training in assessing, diagnosing, and treating more complex mental health issues.
Clinical psychologists generally support clients with more serious psychological concerns. As an online clinical psychologist, I work with young people and adults who are experiencing issues such as grief and loss, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder to name just a few.
Both registered and clinical psychologists can assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health disorders, and you should expect the same high standards in education, training, ethical and professional standards, and continued professional development.
What Other Types of Psychologists Are There?
In addition to becoming a clinical psychologist, there are a number of different areas of practice “endorsement” that an AHPRA-registered psychologist may obtain. These include:
Clinical Neuropsychologists – focus on brain-behaviour issues
Community Psychologists – support social wellbeing
Counselling Psychologists – help with managing life challenges
Educational and Developmental Psychologists – focus on overcoming learning and development associated challenges, working primarily with children
Forensic Psychologists – work within the legal system
Health Psychologists – help address and overcome health behaviours
Organisational Psychologists – help improve workplace dynamics
Sport and Exercise Psychologists – provide psychological support to enhance performance
How Do I Know which Type of Psychologist is Right for Me?
Choosing the right psychologist depends largely on your needs. A registered psychologist is equipped to help with a broad range of mental health issues. However, if you require more specific care, a clinical psychologist with an aligned focus, or another type of endorsed psychologist may suit.
Understanding your specific concerns and doing your research on the types of professionals available can help determine the best fit for you.
Online Clinical Psychologist
At Serenity Mind Care, I provide evidence-based online psychological therapy to individuals aged 14 and over, anywhere in Australia.
Depending on your individual needs, my treatment approach may include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Being able to book an online psychologist session allows you to access high quality mental health support in a way flexible and convenient. It's especially useful if you have a busy schedule, live in a remote area, or prefer the privacy of a virtual setting, and may make it easier to maintain consistent appointments – which is usually an important part of treatment.
Book an Online Psychologist Appointment Today
Ready to take the first step towards better mental health? Get in touch today to book an online psychologist appointment with me.
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