Psychologists
This section takes a look at psychologists, psychotherapists, fees, your rights and much more.
What is psychology?
Psychology is the study of:
- Human processes
- Human behaviour
- Human changes
The term psychology is derived from psyche and logos.
Psyche means:
- The soul
- Life's breath
- The mind
The psyche is symbolised by a beautiful butterfly in Greek mythology.
Logos means:
What about training?
Psychologists trained in psychotherapy for adults will have studied psychology at university. They are not medical doctors.
Once they have completed their degrees, psychologists have to undergo further postgraduate training in clinical psychology before being registered. Most practising psychologist have constant 'supervision' to ensure a high standard of treatment.
What about fees?
Fees may vary widely between psychologists. Since July 2004, some psychology services are covered under Medicare. Private health insurers may also rebate part of the cost of psychological consultations. The Australian Psychological Society has a Schedule of Recommended Fees for private practice psychological services. However, APS Psychologists may adjust fees according to the client's financial circumstances.
Most government-operated or -funded psychological services are free or low cost. For example, your consultation may be covered if you are a victim of crime, or have been injured in the workplace or in a traffic accident. Also the Commonwealth Department of Veterans Affairs covers veterans' consultations.
Community health centres and local council services also generally charge no or low fees for a psychological consultation.
You should enquire about your coverage before your first visit.
What should you bear in mind when choosing a psychologist or a psychotherapist?
Psychologist
All psychologists are legally required to register with the Psychologist Registration Board in their State or Territory, in the same way medical practitioners must be registered.
Psychotherapist
If you choose a psychotherapist ,you should make sure you find one with a professional background! "Psychotherapist" is not a protected title, which means that anyone can call himself or herself a psychotherapist - training or no training. The same goes for 'Counsellor'. It is therefore important that you find a psychotherapist who has undergone the proper training, and who can assess your problem with:
Ask your psychotherapist about his or her training and official approval.
Where do you find a psychologist?
Your doctor may be able to recommend a psychologist.
You will also find psychologists in your area listed in the Yellow Pages.
Do psychologists have to observe a duty of confidentiality?
Yes they do. This will guarantee your peace of mind:
- Your family will not have access to information about you from your psychologist
- Your doctor will not have information about you from your psychologist without your written consent
However, the above does not apply if your psychologist discovers that you have planned to take your life. Where this is the case, he or she will try to persuade you to be admitted into care. If you refuse, he or she may need to contact a doctor at a hospital to have you assessed.
Your psychologist has a duty to tell you what he or she is doing. This means that he or she may not contact others without telling you first.