Important note: This article provides general information only. Medicare rebates, item numbers, government policies and clinic fee structures can change at any time. This guide is for educational purposes and is not individual medical, psychological, financial or legal advice. Always speak with your GP about your personal healthcare needs, and confirm current fees and rebate amounts directly with Services Australia or your chosen practitioner before your appointment.
When you start looking for a psychologist, you will notice that some are called psychologists and some are called clinical psychologists. It is one of the most common questions Australians ask. Here is what the titles mean and how to think about them.
Both are registered psychologists
In Australia, anyone using the title psychologist must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia through AHPRA, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. Registration means the person has completed approved study and supervised practice, meets professional standards and continues their professional development every year.
You can check any psychologist's registration on the public AHPRA register online.
What does clinical mean?
A clinical psychologist is a registered psychologist who also holds an area of practice endorsement in clinical psychology. Endorsement usually involves further postgraduate study in clinical psychology followed by a period of supervised practice.
Clinical psychology is one of several endorsed areas. Others include counselling, health, forensic, neuropsychology, educational and developmental, organisational, community and sport and exercise psychology. An endorsement shows additional training in that particular area.
Is a clinical psychologist better?
Not necessarily. Many registered psychologists without an endorsement have years of experience and strong skills in specific areas such as anxiety, relationships, trauma, grief or work stress. Both clinical psychologists and generally registered psychologists can provide evidence based treatment for a wide range of concerns.
The most useful question is not which title is better, but which psychologist suits your needs. Research consistently points to the relationship between client and psychologist as an important part of therapy, so feeling comfortable with the person matters.
How does Medicare treat them?
Under the Better Access initiative, Medicare rebates for sessions with a clinical psychologist are generally paid at a higher rate than rebates for sessions with a generally registered psychologist. Fees often differ too. Because rebate amounts change, check the current figures with Services Australia and ask each practice about its fees and gap.
How to choose
Some things you might consider: Areas of practice: does the psychologist work with the concerns you want help with? Approach: some people prefer a structured approach, others prefer a more open conversation. Practical details: location, telehealth, availability and fees. Comfort: it is fine to have a first session and then decide whether it feels right.
Your GP can also help you think about which type of psychologist may suit your situation.
If you need support right now, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. In an emergency, call 000.