What Is The Difference Between Counselling and Psychology?

In the world of mental health support, counselling and psychology are fields of study with overlapping similarities but there are distinct differences between counselling and psychology. People sometimes find these differences confusing, especially when they are looking to seek help or choosing which career avenue to pursue. You may have decided that you want to pursue a career studying human behaviour and the mind or that you want to assist people in dealing with various issues in their lives. But when looking at your academic options, how do you decide? Whilst these courses do cover some common ground, psychology and counselling do differ.

We asked Associate Professor Ebi Cocodia, Excelsia’s Head of School of Counselling to better explain the major differences between psychology and counselling.

What are the differences between a counsellor and a psychologist?

Psychologists and counsellors take two different approaches to psychological support:

– Psychologists specialise in the scientific study of the human mind in relation to emotion, behaviour and mental processes; they utilise scientific methods to diagnose and treat mental illnesses (non-medically).

– Counsellors use empirically supported interventions and specialised interpersonal skills to enable change and empower clients.

What are the similarities in counselling and psychology?

Counselling and psychology are overlapping professions with a range of similarities.

– Counsellors and Psychologists are both mental health professionals.

– Their area of expertise is the mind and the way it affects behaviour and well-being.

– They often work together to prevent, diagnose, and treat mental illnesses and struggles, and both are committed to helping people stay mentally well.

What are the benefits of studying counselling over psychology?

– Counselling teaches various skills that are very valuable in all walks of life

– You gain practical experience as you study

– Counselling courses promote self-development which can help promote existing skills for your career

– Qualifying as a registered counsellor takes a much shorter time than becoming a registered psychologist.

How do you become a qualified counsellor in Australia?

In order to be a registered counsellor, one must complete an association accredited counselling course. Excelsia offers two accredited counselling courses; Master of Counselling and Graduate Diploma of Counselling. Excelsia also offers a Graduate Certificate in Counselling which is not professionally accredited, but can count towards a Diploma or Master of Counselling.

What are the main questions you should ask yourself before studying counselling?

– Why do I want to be a counsellor?

– Am I empathetic?

– Am I tolerant and non-judgemental?

– Do I believe that people can change?

– Am I good at listening?

– Am I comfortable talking to anyone?

– Do I understand myself well? Do I have biases and/or triggers I need to address?

With 1 in 5 Australians experiencing a mental or behavioural condition, there’s been no better time to make a positive impact. The 2019 QILT Survey results revealed that Excelsia is the leading Non-University counselling education provider in NSW. With our Master of Counselling, Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Graduate Certificate in Counselling, we equip students with the knowledge to change people’s lives.

Each counselling course prepares graduates for a range of specialised positions in the counselling field, from private practitioner to a variety of support roles within the mental health sector. Excelsia offers a broad, pastoral approach to learning that better prepares you for life and your career.

The Graduate Certificate in Counselling is delivered online – meaning you have the flexibility to learn from the safety and comfort of your home. This presents a unique opportunity to set students on a path to employment in Counselling and or further study with no upfront fee required. Places are strictly limited. For further information and to apply, refer to the link here.