Are you fascinated by the inner workings of the human mind? Do you love to see people flourish and overcome behaviours, mindsets or illnesses that hold them back? Are you eager to support others towards holistic wellbeing and health?
If you answered yes to any of these questions you have probably considered a career in either counselling or psychology. While these professions seem similar, they represent distinct educational pathways and result in unique roles and responsibilities with clients and patients. Understanding the differences between these professions will help you determine which path aligns best with your interests and sense of vocational calling.
Psychologists: The Science of Behaviour and Mind
Psychologists are experts in understanding how people think, feel, behave, and learn. Their work often involves diagnosing and treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Psychologists use evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and employ psychological assessments to inform their therapeutic strategies.
Psychology is a regulated profession in Australia, requiring extensive training and registration with the Psychology Board of Australia and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). The work of a practising psychologist is more medical in nature, focusing on diagnosing serious mental health issues and following clear and established guidelines for treatment.
Counsellors: A Person-Centred Wellbeing
Counsellors, on the other hand, engage clients in a broader way and in a wider variety of settings. Counsellors understand their client’s concerns and challenges and then work together with their clients to overcome challenges and improve their overall mental health and wellbeing. This could mean helping clients set and achieve personal goals, change they way they view a situation, or improve life habits . Like psychologists, counsellors also use evidenced based practices to help their clients but what’s different is. Counsellors typically do not engage in diagnosis or treatment of severe mental illnesses. Instead, they provide support for mild to moderate issues and focus on personal growth and development.
Counselling is a self-regulated profession in Australia, with accreditation provided by peak organisations like the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), which Alphacrucis is recognised by. This path emphasises listening skills and building a supportive, empathetic relationship with clients, working alongside them to bring lasting change and improvement in their lives.
Career Opportunities: Where Can You Work?
Both psychologists and counsellors have diverse career opportunities across various settings.
Psychologists can work in a range of environments, including:
- Clinical Settings: Offering therapeutic services to individuals with severe mental health issues.
- Corporate Sector: Working to improve workplace culture and employee well-being.
- Educational Institutions: Supporting students in schools, colleges, and universities.
- Sports and Performance Psychology: Assisting athletes and elite performers to excel and cope with pressure.
Psychologists often work within a structured framework, using their expertise in assessment and diagnosis to inform their approach to therapy.
Counsellors often work in settings such as:
- Private Practice: Providing counselling support in their chosen area of specialty.
- Corporate Sector: Working to improve workplace culture and employee well-being.
- Non-Profit Organisations: Providing support services for vulnerable populations.
- Government Departments: Working in public health or community services.
- Schools and Universities: Offering guidance and counselling to students.
- Helpline Services: Supporting individuals in crisis through phone or online counselling.
Counsellors focus on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their feelings, mindsets and assumptions and develop personal strategies for improvement.
Educational Pathways
In Australia, becoming a psychologist requires a minimum of four years of study and additional supervised experience. The typical academic pathway usually includes the following:
- Undergraduate Degree: A three-year Bachelor of Psychology or Bachelor of Psychological Science.
- Honours or Graduate Diploma: A one-year honours degree or Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced).
- Master’s Degree: A two-year Master of Psychology (Clinical or Organisational) or extensive clinical experience.
Practical experience is integral, with placements in clinical or organisational settings totalling around 1,000 hours during a Master of Psychology.
Counselling requires accredited study but does not have the same regulatory framework as psychology. Pathways take less time and can include any of the following:
- Bachelor of Applied Social Science: A broad foundation in the social sciences that can launch a number of ‘others focussed’ careers.
- Graduate Certificate of Counselling or Wellbeing Studies: A foundational program that introduces core counselling skills. This is also a great starting point and pathway towards a Graduate Diploma or Masters.
- Graduate Diploma of Counselling: A more in-depth program that prepares you for practical counselling work . and can be a pathway into our Masters.
- Master of Counselling: An advanced degree that includes extensive counselling practical experience.
- Graduate Certificate of Trauma Counselling : for practitioners who want to specialise in helping people with trauma.
- Graduate Certificate of Professional Supervision : for experienced practitioners who want to help other leaders in counselling or pastoral care roles.
Counselling courses typically involve a mix of theoretical learning and hands-on practice, with placements ranging from 100 to 240 hours depending on the level of study.
The Study Experience: What to Expect
Your study experience will vary depending on whether you choose psychology or counselling.
Psychology programs focus heavily on the scientific aspects of mental health, including assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatments. You’ll study theories of behaviour, developmental psychology, and advanced therapeutic techniques. Practical experience is integral, with placements in clinical or organisational settings totalling around 1,000 hours during a Master of Psychology.
Counselling programs are more practical, with a strong emphasis on developing core interpersonal skills. You’ll learn the essentials of active listening, empathy, and person-centred counselling techniques. Practical placements are a key component, and , provide you with real-world experience in various settings. Placements range from 100 to 240 hours, depending on the level of study.
Questions to ask yourself
Deciding between counselling and psychology depends on your career goals and personal strengths. Below are 3 simple questions that could help.
- Are you interested in working within a medical or clinical framework?
- Do you enjoy research and scientific analysis?
- Are you prepared for the extensive study and training required to become a registered psychologist?
If you answered yes to these questions, a career in psychology might be for you.
- Do you have a strong desire to help people through their personal challenges?
- Are you drawn to a more holistic, person-centred approach?
- Do you prefer practical, hands-on work with clients rather than formal assessments and diagnosis?
If these qualities resonate with you, a career in counselling could be the better path.
Your Path Forward
Whether you choose to become a counsellor or a psychologist, both careers offer the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. By understanding the distinctions between these roles and considering your own strengths and interests, you can choose the path that’s right for you. Remember, both professions require dedication, empathy, and a commitment to ongoing learning. Whichever path you choose, your work will be rewarding and impactful.
A last word from Alphacrucis graduates
“The evidence-based teaching at AC has helped me develop a more intelligent approach when counselling people in sensitive areas such relationship breakdown and addictions. It has really transformed the impact of my ministry.” – Brad Middleton, Master of Counselling Alumni
“I was studying the same degree at another university when the lecturer said that our worldview affects everything we do, especially in this job. At that moment, I realised I needed to find a new place to learn that aligns with my worldview. After asking around, I found Alphacrucis and I have never looked back.”
– Abigail Comafay, Bachelor of Applied Social Science Alumni
Make a Difference in Society with Our Social Science Courses
Are you passionate about understanding human behaviour, society, and the world around you? Our Social Science courses offer a comprehensive exploration of the social, cultural, and political forces shaping our lives with a Christian Worldview. Whether you’re looking to pursue a career in social work, public policy, or community development, these courses provide the knowledge and skills to make a real-world impact.
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