Trying to find a therapist can mean learning a whole new language! Even the names of different mental health professionals can be a minefield to understand, this article will explain the differences.
The most simple explanation for the differernce is that a psychologist must have a doctoral degree, and a psychotherapist/ counsellor are trained in other types of courses and don’t have to undertake research. Psychotherapists and counsellors can vary widely, depending on the courses they have undertaken. They may differ in specialisation or how they work. You may find that a psychotherapist is more specialised in a particular type of therapy or therapeutic model, i.e. psychoanalysis. It is always worth asking any mental health practitioner about how they work and which therapeutic models they are trained in.
Psychologists are accredited by the HCPC and this is a requirement to practice. You can check if your psychologist is registered with the HCPC via their register. Psychotherapists and counsellors are not required to be registered with a professional body but many opt to do so to ensure they are meeting expected professional standards. The most commonly used professional bodies are the BACP and UKCP, but other organisations are available.
Different types of psychologists
There are different types of psychologists and the ones that offer therapy are: counselling psychologists, clinical psychologists and forensic psychologists. Forensic psychologists work with perpetrators of crime. Clinical and counselling psychology tend to work with the general public, and the main difference is the training. Clinical psychologists are trained in doctorate degrees funded by the NHS and usually have a focus on CBT in their training. Counselling psychologists are independently trained and their training usually focuses on an integrative practice, drawing on the three main therapeutic models: person-centered, psychodynamic and CBT.
However, training varies between institutions and it is recommended to talk with a psychologist you are interested in working with to see if they align with your expectations of therapy. Some clinical psychologists may have an integrative practice and some counselling psychologists may focus on a particular model more than others. Psychologists also have to undertake continuing professional development (CPD), which means psychologists are always learning more and training in new areas beyond their initial doctorate degree!
Working as a counselling psychologist
I am a counselling psychologist and have trained in a variety of theories and processes, including attachment theory, schema therapy, object relations theory, trauma informed therapies, etc. Like many counselling psychologists, I work integratively and find that working integratively means I can tailor the therapy to your goals and preferences.
Counselling psychologists are also trained to understand clients holistically and within their context. This means understanding you as a person and how your historical and current context may affect the way you see the world or your mental health. Counselling psychologists try to avoid pathologisation, we understand that diagnoses of mental health conditions are important but that also that you are more than a diagnosis.
The best way to work through the jargon and different names is to talk to the practitioner themselves. Most professionals who offer therapy will also offer an initial consultation call, which is an opportunity for you to talk to them about how they work and what their experience is. This can be the best way to make an informed decision when picking a therapist, whether that’s a counselling psychologist, clinical psychologist, counsellor or psychotherapist.