A psychologist is a registered health professional who focuses on human emotions and behaviour and the science behind it, identifying both conscious and subconscious issues.
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They can diagnose mental, physical or behavioural health issues and treat complex mental health conditions, such as bipolar, panic disorders and PTSD.
This is a long-term process most likely lasting years.
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They are trained to identify root causes of problems before prescribing or developing a treatment plan.
They may treat with evidence-based methods such as, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT).
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Like that of Counsellors, psychologists can also see people for the following problems:
- depression, anxiety or stress
- drug and alcohol abuse
- eating disorders
- fears and phobias
- low self-esteem
- post-traumatic stress disorder
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As they are not medical professionals ie psychiatrist, they are unable to prescribe medications.
Practising psychologists must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). You can check this at the AHPRA website.