Psychologist vs Counsellor In Australia: Key Differences Explained
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by how to navigate the mental health system, you’re not alone. When you're looking for support, it can feel hard to know where to begin — especially in Australia, where 'counsellor,' 'psychologist,' and 'therapist' are used interchangeably and roles often overlap, creating confusion about what each profession actually does. The truth is that both counsellors and psychologists offer meaningful support but in different ways. Depending on what you're working through, one may be a better fit than the other.
The main differences between counsellors and psychologists come down to three key things: their training, their approach to support, and what they can help with. Understanding these differences can help you find the right support for you.
Traning & Scope of Practice
Psychologists are university-trained professionals who work primarily within the medical model. They’re qualified to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions like Major Depressive Disorder, PTSD and OCD. In Australia, “psychologist” is a protected title — meaning only people who meet specific training and registration requirements can legally call themselves psychologists. They must be registered through a national board with strict education and clinical requirements.
Many psychologists use structured, evidence-based therapies such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) or ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). Their support is often short-term, centered around symptom management or reduction and focused on measurable outcomes.
Counselling takes a different approach. Counsellors are trained in specific programs to support people through life’s challenges — whether that’s grief, identity questions, relationship difficulties, stress, neurodivergence, chronic illness, medical trauma, or just the feeling of being overwhelmed. Counselling is not about diagnosis or labels. It’s about sitting with your story, not trying to fix it — and making space for healing that is relational, not clinical. You don't need a diagnosis or referral to begin counselling—just a willingness to explore what's happening for you.
Unlike the legislation around psychology, counselling isn’t regulated in the same way yet. Titles like “counsellor” or “therapist” aren’t regulated by law — which can understandably cause confusion. It's important to look for counsellors registered with bodies like the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). These accreditations mean counsellors operate to rigorous ethical, supervisory, and training standards. Regulation of counselling is evolving in Australia, reflecting the growing recognition of its value and the strong professional bodies leading this work.
Medicare Rebates & Costs
With these differences ironed out, let’s talk about costs. The Australian Psychological Society currently recommends a fee of $318 for a standard session with a psychologist. If you access Medicare rebates through a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, the rebate covers roughly $99-145 per session. This means you'll still be out of pocket for a gap fee of at least $100–$200 per session, possibly more. Psychology services are also in high demand, which often means longer wait times.
Counselling sessions are often more financially accessible in comparison. In many cases, the private fee for counselling is the same or less than the psychology gap fee after the rebate. This makes counselling a sustainable option for longer-term support, especially if you’ve already used your subsidised psychology sessions. Wait times are usually shorter, and you can often begin support much sooner.
Despite the differences, there’s frequently more overlap than you might think. Some psychologists work from a deeply person-centred approach and many counselors incorporate structured techniques such as CBT. It’s not about one being better than the other — it’s about finding a space that feels right for you.
So, which is right for you?
How to Choose the Right Mental Health Professional for You
Consider a psychologist if:
You’re seeking a formal diagnosis for a mental health condition
You want to access Medicare rebates (via a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan)
You prefer structured, evidence-based therapy focused on specific symptoms
You're looking for short-term or goal-oriented support (e.g. 6–10 sessions)
Consider a counsellor if:
You want relational, person-centred support for life challenges
You’re not seeking a formal diagnosis or clinical label
You prefer a holistic or exploratory approach, possibly over the longer term
You’re looking for more affordable or flexible options (keep in mind: not subsidised by Medicare)
You’re seeking non-clinical, trauma-informed support that honours your full story — not just a diagnosis or label
At Among Puffins, the counselling I offer is trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, and non-pathologising. I work with people who have often felt invisible, dismissed, or misunderstood — particularly those living with chronic health issues, navigating late diagnoses, grieving unseen losses, or carrying the weight of systemic and family trauma. Counselling can be especially supportive for people who don't feel comfortable in medicalised spaces or who are simply seeking something more relational — more curious, compassionate, and connected. Find out more
If you’re curious whether counselling might be the support you’ve been looking for, I’d love to connect. Book a free 15-minute chat directly here: Book Now or reach out with any questions here: Contact Liz at Among Puffins Counselling
Find Psychologists and Counsellors Near You
If you feel a psychologist might be a better fit for your needs, you can find a registered psychologist through the Australian Psychological Society’s ‘Find a Psychologist’ directory here: Find a Psychologist
If you want to explore other counselling options beyond our service, you can search for qualified counsellors via the Australian Counselling Association’s ‘Find a Counsellor’ directory here: Find a Counsellor
Written by
Liz O’Neill
BSc Psych., MA Couns.,
Registered Counsellor
Founder of Among Puffins Counselling
E: amongpuffinscounselling@gmail.com