Deciding to come to see a mental health practitioner is a big step and you may be concerned that you find the right person to speak to. All of our practitioners will help you to feel at ease, will listen to your concerns and will work with you to find a way through the issues you are facing. However, if you would prefer to see another practitioner at any stage it is possible to make a change.
How do I choose a practitioner?
- Read the descriptions below of the work each practitioner type and see where you might fit.
- Search or browse Our practitioners to read about their specialities.
- Call or email us to make an appointment.
Our practitioners are available for appointments on different days, so if you have limitations of days or times of the day it is best to mention this to our reception staff when calling for an appointment.
Types of practitioners
GP Counsellors
GP Counsellors hold a medical degree and have undergone further extensive training in mental health.
Psychologists
Psychologists assist people to develop their life skills in order to function better and are trained to treat people with a mental illness. They frequently work with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood and personality disorders. They can make assessments and diagnose specific mental health conditions.
Provisional psychologists have completed their academic qualifications to work as a psychologist and are in a period of practical supervision.
Counsellors/Psychotherapists
What is a Counsellor?
Counsellors are trained and equipped to help clients who present with a range of life issues which include self-esteem, conflict, relationship breakdown, aggression, compulsive behaviours, life and spiritual crises. Some counsellors have particular areas of expertise, depending on their training and experience. Counsellors assist people to understand themselves and their situations, to identify options for change and how to make these changes.
What is a Psychotherapist?
The titles of Counsellor, Therapist, and Psychotherapist are all interchangeable.
A psychotherapist uses techniques that help people change behaviours, thoughts, and emotions that cause problems or distress. It is an umbrella term that describes treating psychological disorders and mental distress through verbal and psychological techniques.
In session, a Psychotherapist:
- Does not diagnose or assess, but can provide ongoing therapy following a diagnosis (can facilitate assessments such as BDI, HDRS etc.
- Uses a collaborative and client-centred approach. The direction of therapy is typically guided largely by the client, but this can shift and sessions can be quite structured (client and session dependent).
- Modalities and interventions are typically integrated to suit client needs and preferences.
- Most likely to integrate expressive and somatic techniques (art therapy, symbols).