Overview
Counselling psychology is one of nine practice areas defined by the Psychology Board of Australia. Practitioners aim to support clients in developing strengths and wellbeing. They resolve psychological issues through therapy.
As a counselling psychologist, your job involves offering psychotherapy for mental health issues, like anxiety and depression. You also provide support for overcoming life's challenges. The goal is to help people make progress, improve mental health, and build resilience.
What is Counselling Psychology?
Counselling psychology assists people to overcome psychological challenges. It can involve diagnosing mental health issues and applying therapies to treat conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Psychologists in a counselling role engage with clients to understand their concerns. They use techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and family systems therapy. Their work helps clients to manage emotions, improve relationships, and make positive life changes.
Issues that may present include trauma, grief and loss, major life changes, domestic violence, sexual assault/abuse, relationship issues, healthy lifestyle maintenance, career development, vocational assessment, and developmental delays.
Related: Psychology Board – Guidelines on Area of Practice Endorsements
Role of Counselling Psychologists
Counselling psychologists deliver therapy and support to tackle personal or relationship issues. They assess, diagnose, and treat clients using evidence-based methods to enhance well-being and resolve psychological challenges.
Counselling psychologists do not focus on mental disorders per se. The profession is oriented around assisting clients to function better in their daily lives. Counselling psychology is essentially talk therapy; a treatment form that involves discussion of issues.
Clients mainly include individuals, couples, and families seeking help for mental health concerns, stress, or relationship problems. For example, they conduct psychotherapy sessions for depression, counsel couples through conflicts, and guide families during transitions.
Related: 12 Types of Psychologists in Australia
How Do I Become a Counselling Psychologist?
- To become a counselling psychologist in Australia, start with a 3-year bachelor's degree in psychology. For those with a different undergraduate degree, a Graduate Diploma in Psychology is an alternative.
- Do a 1-year honours degree or Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) to build knowledge and research skills. This step allows for provisional registration.
- Next, do a 2-year master's degree specialising in counselling psychology. This program focuses on therapeutic techniques, client assessment, and mental health interventions.
- Complete 2 years of supervised practice to refine your practical counselling skills.
- Finally, secure registration with the Psychology Board of Australia. With your specialised education and experience, you can seek an endorsement in Counselling Psychology.