Psychologist vs psychiatrist: a psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication, while a psychologist provides talking therapy and assessments. A counsellor offers supportive talking therapy but isn't registered with AHPRA, and Medicare rebates don't cover counselling.
 | Prepared by Trevor Keen Founder and Physiotherapist · Reviewed 25 October 2026 |
All three can help with your mental health, and many people see more than one. This guide compares them side by side, explains where your GP fits, and helps you work out who to see first in Adelaide.
At a glance
| ✓ | Psychiatrists are medical doctors: they diagnose, prescribe and treat complex conditions. |
| ✓ | Psychologists are registered health professionals who provide therapy and assessments. They can't prescribe. |
| ✓ | Counsellors provide supportive talking therapy. Training varies because counselling isn't a registered profession. |
| ✓ | With a mental health care plan, Medicare rebates apply to psychologists. Psychiatrists need a GP referral for a rebate. |
| ✓ | Your GP is often a good first step for working out who to see. |
In this guide
Psychologist vs psychiatrist vs counsellor: what's the difference?
How they compare
| Psychologist | Psychiatrist | Counsellor | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Training | University degree plus supervised practice, then registration with the Psychology Board | Medical degree, then several years of specialist psychiatry training | Varies widely; no single required qualification |
| Registered with AHPRA? | Yes | Yes, as a medical specialist | No (may belong to a professional association) |
| Main focus | Talking therapies and assessments | Diagnosis, medication and complex conditions | Supportive talking therapy |
| Can prescribe? | No | Yes | No |
| Medicare rebate? | Yes, with a mental health care plan | Yes, with a GP referral | No |
What does a psychologist do?
Psychologists help people understand and change patterns in their thoughts, emotions and behaviour. They use evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a structured approach that looks at the links between thoughts, feelings and actions, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
Psychologists also do assessments, for example for ADHD or autism. Every psychologist must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia, and some also hold an endorsement in an area such as clinical psychology. CHSA's psychologists are registered psychologists.
Not sure where to start?
Our team can talk through whether a psychologist is the right fit and how Medicare, NDIS or private funding applies to you.
Book or referCall 08 8166 4700What does a psychiatrist do?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has specialised in mental health. Psychiatrists diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe and manage medication, and treat more complex or severe conditions, such as bipolar disorder or psychosis.
Appointments are often shorter and less frequent than psychology sessions. Many people see both, with each looking after a different part of their care.
What does a counsellor do?
Counsellors offer a supportive space to talk through challenges such as grief, relationship problems or stress. Counselling isn't a registered profession with AHPRA, so training and experience vary. If you see a counsellor, check their qualifications and whether they belong to a professional association.
Good to know
Check the title
Only people registered with the Psychology Board of Australia can call themselves a psychologist. You can check anyone's registration on the AHPRA public register.
Where does your GP fit in?
Your GP is often a good first step. They can check for physical causes, prepare a mental health care plan so you can claim Medicare rebates for psychology, and refer you to a psychiatrist if you need specialist care or medication.
Which one should you see?
- A psychologist may suit you if you'd like help with anxiety, low mood, stress, trauma or relationships, or you want an assessment.
- A psychiatrist may suit you if your symptoms are severe or complex, or you're considering medication.
- A counsellor may suit you if you want general support through a hard time and don't need a Medicare rebate.
If you're not sure, many people start with their GP or a psychologist and add other support as needed. Read what happens in a first psychology session, or see our psychology services.
Common questions
Is a psychologist or psychiatrist better for anxiety?
Neither is better for everyone. Many people with anxiety start with a psychologist, because talking therapies like CBT are a common first approach. A psychiatrist may be involved if anxiety is severe or complex, or if medication is being considered. Your GP can help you decide.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
No, you can book a psychologist directly. To claim Medicare rebates you need a mental health care plan and referral from your usual GP. To claim a Medicare rebate for a psychiatrist, you need a GP referral.
Can a psychologist prescribe medication?
No. Psychologists in Australia can't prescribe. If medication may help, your psychologist can work alongside your GP or a psychiatrist.
Is a counsellor cheaper than a psychologist?
A counsellor's fee is often lower, but Medicare rebates don't cover counselling. With a mental health care plan, your out-of-pocket cost for a psychologist may be similar to a counsellor's full fee, so compare what you'd actually pay.
Talk to a psychologist in Adelaide
Adults, young people and children, at our Salisbury and Seacliff clinics, and by telehealth. Book directly or with a mental health care plan.
Book or referSee our feesPrepared by
 | Trevor Keen Founder, Conscious Healthcare SA · Physiotherapist (AHPRA PHY0002063374) · Master of Physiotherapy and Bachelor of Psychological Studies, Flinders University |
Trevor is a physiotherapist whose lived experience of disability led him to found CHSA, bringing psychology, assessments, occupational therapy, behaviour support and dietetics under one roof in Adelaide. He has completed a Bachelor of Psychological Studies at Flinders University, is now studying psychology at honours level, and helps write our guides alongside the clinicians who deliver each service.
Sources
- healthdirect: Psychiatrists and psychologists
- Medicare Mental Health: Types of health professionals
- Your Health in Mind (RANZCP): Psychiatrists and psychologists, what's the difference?
- Psychology Board of Australia: Psychology FAQ
If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
This guide is general information, not advice about your situation. Speak with your GP or one of our team about what's right for you.
SUBMIT YOUR COMMENT