Counselling vs psychology: Same or different?

Choosing the right kind of mental health support can feel like walking on unfamiliar ground. With so many professional titles and therapeutic approaches, it isn’t always clear where to begin. You might be wondering if a counsellor is the right fit, or whether a psychologist might be more appropriate.

Both professions offer valuable support, but they differ in their training, scope, and the kinds of issues they typically address. Understanding the difference between counselling and psychology can help you decide what kind of support best matches your needs.

This guide breaks down the core distinctions between counselling and psychology in Australia, including how each professional works, what services they provide, how much they typically charge, and how to determine which path may be best for you.

Counselling vs psychology at a glance

Counselling

Counselling involves structured, supportive conversations with a trained counsellor to explore challenges such as grief, workplace stress, relationships, and life transitions. Counsellors focus on helping clients develop insight, build coping skills, and improve their wellbeing.

In Australia, the title counsellor is not legally protected. However, many practitioners have completed formal training - ranging from a diploma to a master’s degree - and are accredited with respected bodies such as the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).

Some counsellors also call themselves psychotherapists, particularly when they work with long-term therapeutic approaches or specialised modalities.

You may benefit from seeing a counsellor if:

• You are facing a life change or personal challenge

• You want to explore patterns in relationships or behaviour

• You are feeling overwhelmed or uncertain and want a supportive space to talk

• You prefer a flexible, less clinical environment

• You are looking for short-term mental health support

Psychology

Psychologists are mental health professionals who assess, diagnose, and treat psychological conditions. Their work is grounded in scientific research, and they often use evidence-based therapies to support clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, or complex behavioural concerns.

In Australia, psychologists must complete at least six years of university training and supervised practice. They are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Psychologists can conduct formal assessments and diagnoses, which may be necessary for accessing certain supports or treatment plans.

You may benefit from seeing a psychologist if:

• You are experiencing persistent symptoms of anxiety, depression, or trauma

• You need a formal assessment or diagnosis

• You want therapy based on psychological research and clinical frameworks

• You are accessing a Medicare rebate through your GP

• You need mental health reports or assessments for school, work, or legal matters

Counselling & psychology approaches

Many therapists draw on a range of approaches, which they tailor to your needs and goals.. Here are some examples:

Common with both counsellors and psychologists:

• Person-centred therapy

• Solution-focused brief therapy

• Narrative therapy

• Mindfulness-based strategies

More often used by psychologists:

• Cognitive behavioural therapy

• Acceptance and commitment therapy

• Dialectical behaviour therapy

• Psychological assessments and formal reports

Some professionals also offer online counselling or online therapy, which allows you to access support from home or any other place where you feel safe and free to talk. This can be especially helpful for people living in rural areas or those with mobility or scheduling limitations.

Costs, funding options, and rebates

Psychology and Medicare

If you see a registered psychologist with a referral from your GP under a mental health care plan, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates. These typically cover part of the session cost, with the gap depending on the practitioner’s fees.

For example, according to Medicare’s most recent announcement, you can access a Medicare rebate of $98.97 for a session with a general psychologist and $145.25 for a session with a clinical psychologist. However, many psychologists charge between $150 and $300 per session, so you may still pay a portion out of pocket.

Counselling fees

Counselling is usually a private service and is not covered by Medicare. Some private health insurers offer rebates, depending on the counsellor’s qualifications and your level of cover.

Fees for counselling typically range from $60 to $150 per session. Some counsellors provide a free initial consultation to help you understand their approach and see if you feel comfortable working together.

An employer-funded Employee Assistance Program (EAP) may also include short-term counselling at no cost to you.

Final thoughts

The decision to seek therapy is often deeply personal. And knowing the difference between counselling and psychology can give you clarity and confidence in choosing the support that aligns with your needs, lifestyle, and values.

Some people begin with a counsellor and later work with a psychologist, or vice versa. What matters most is finding a therapist who is qualified, ethical, and able to support you in the way that feels most helpful.

There is no one-size-fits-all path. Take your time, ask questions, and choose the support that feels right for you.