Clinical psychologists and counsellors
Clinical psychologists and counsellors specialise in treating mental health problems. They are not medically qualified, so they cannot prescribe antidepressants or other drugs.
Counsellors and psychologists vary in their training and their experience in treating depression. A well qualified practitioner will be a member of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists or of the College of Counselling Psychologists.
A counsellor or clinical psychologists can help by:
- providing you with an opportunity to talk about your problems and to be listened to in an emotionally supportive and non-judgmental way
- helping you to develop specific methods for overcoming depression and preventing it from recurring. A good counsellor or clinical psychologist will use methods recommended in BluePages such as cognitive behaviour therapy or interpersonal psychotherapy.
Be cautious about therapists who use methods that are not recommended on this website. They may not be providing you with the best possible help.
If you want help from a counsellor or clinical psychologist, you can:
- contact one yourself (they are listed in the Yellow Pages).
- get a recommendation from your GP.
- ring the Australian Psychological Society referral service (Toll free 1800 333 497 outside Melbourne or 03 8662 3300).
In Australia rebates are now offered for visits to clinical psychologists through the Better Access to Mental Health Care scheme. Free counselling is available through telephone counselling services such as Lifeline, although they will only offer supportive counselling rather than specific help to overcome depression.