Clinical Psychologist Psychiatrist. Who Does What?

Each type of mental health worker will has different qualifications, training, and experience. as well as different areas of specialty.

Generalist Psychologists

Psychologists provide assessment and therapy to clients, either through individual or group format.

Psychologists typically complete a minimum of six years of training, including university and practical experience, and are required to be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia.

Clinical psychologists

Clinical psychologists also provide a range of psychological services to people across their life (such as assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness).

Clinical psychologists complete additional supervision and training in the practice of clinical psychology beyond their six years of university. They are required to be involved in ongoing training and study during their careers within a ‘scientist-practitioner’ model.

Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists are doctors who specialize in mental health. They diagnose and treat people with mental illness and prescribe medications, if appropriate.

Psychiatrists usually complete 4-6 years of an undergraduate medical degree and then undergo general medical training. They complete several years of specialist training in psychiatry and must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.