Psychologists

The word 'psychology' comes from the words psyche and logos. Psyche means the soul, life's breath or the mind, while logos means knowledge.

Training

Psychologists study human behaviour in their undergraduate and postgraduate degrees before undertaking supervised experience and gaining registration. They do not have a medical degree, however many study for a similar number of years to specialise in various aspects of psychology. For example, clinical psychologists study for at least six years to attain their qualifications. Psychologists are not medical doctors and hence they cannot prescribe medicines.

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:
 • Care
 • Professionalism

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.

 • 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 believes you plan 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.