DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COUNSELLORS AND PSYCHOLOGISTS

The difference between counsellors and psychologists is a much discussed topic in today's mental health environment. With the exponential growth of professional counselling in the last two decades, there is a common debate involving many aspects of training and ethics in these two professions. For that reason, many people face an incognita when asked how to define, or even separate, the focus and objectives of the two. If you were asked to discuss this topic, what would you say? Here are some guidelines.

Counsellors focus on 'everyday' people with 'everyday' problems such as relationship, stress, workplace, and grief and loss issues. Counsellors do not conduct psychometric testing or prescribe medication and usually engage in one-on-one, family, or group work. Counsellors can refer clients to a General Practitioner or Psychologist for issues of a more serious nature.

Counsellors adopt a 'more positive' approach towards clients, with a major focus on the client's capability for improvement, achievement and productivity. Counselling is a learning-oriented process, with Counsellors as the facilitators.

Psychologists, on the other hand, are trained in many different theoretical approaches to human behaviour and also engage in one-on-one, family, or group work. Psychologists also usually work with clients with a mental illness and may be employed in more clinical positions. Psychologists can utilise a number of psychometric tests, however are not able to prescribe medication. The focus of most Psychologists' work is on specific problems or symptoms described from their client's perspective.