Clinical psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor: understanding the differences in the UK
What kind of mental health support is right for me?
So often people ask me the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist, therapist and counsellor in the UK. Whilst there are some overlaps, we have different training, qualifications and scope of practice.
Finding the right support can be confusing and daunting. Knowing some of the key differences can help you to make an informed decision about which professional may be the best fit for you, your needs and your preferences.
What is a clinical psychologist?
In the UK, a clinical psychologist has completed an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Doctorate in clinical psychology. This means that clinical psychologists are doctors of clinical psychology.
Clinical psychology is the scientific study of how people think, feel and behave. This training is used to inform our assessment and treatment of a variety of mental health difficulties. We use a ‘biopsychosocial’ approach - which acknowledges the biological factors (such as age, genetics, physical health, medical conditions and medications), psychological factors (such as thought patterns, beliefs, emotions, awareness and motivation) and social factors (social network, work, culture, ethnicity and race, socioeconomic status) of why someone may be experiencing an emotional difficulty such as anxiety or low mood.
The term ‘clinical psychologist’ is a legally protected title. This means that in the UK a practising clinical psychologist is - by law - registered with the Health Care & Professions Council (HCPC). This ensures they have the correct qualifications and code of conduct. If you have found a clinical psychologist that you would like to work with, click here to check they are registered with the HCPC.
Clinical psychologists are trained in a variety of psychological treatments (types of talking therapies), such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Systemic Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). As we are trained in multiple talking therapies, we can draw on multiple models to tailor therapy to suit your specific needs.
Clinical psychology can be good for clients who are keen to learn practical skills and strategies to make changes in their lives - it is often viewed as an ‘active’ form of therapy.
Clinical psychologists focus less on diagnosing (this is more what psychiatrists focus on – see below). Rather, the focus is on ‘formulation’ which is an understanding of someone’s difficulties, what may be causing it, and what may be keeping this difficulty going.
Clinical psychologists do not prescribe medication.
What is a psychiatrist?
Psychiatry is a branch of medicine. They are medical doctors who complete specialist training in the assessment and treatment of mental health conditions.
As psychiatrists are medically trained, they tend to focus on diagnosing mental health conditions. Psychiatrists can also prescribe medications.
Psychiatrists can prescribe medications.
In the UK, they must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC).
Psychiatrists may work alongside mental health nurses and clinical psychologists to provide a comprehensive treatment plan (psychiatrist often focusing on medication and the psychologist focusing on talking therapy).
Psychiatrists tend to treat people who may have more complex mental health needs, such as severe depression, severe anxiety or psychosis.
What is a counsellor?
Counselling is a reflective form of therapy. Counsellors support you to talk openly and process what you have been finding difficult without there being a specific agenda.
Counsellors support you to find your own solutions by talking things through, whereas a clinical psychologist may suggest specific strategies (‘tools’) that may help.
Counsellors tend to work with people who are experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties - they would not usually work with people who are experiencing more severe or complex issues.
Counsellor’s cannot prescribe medications.
When looking for a counsellor, it is important you find someone who is accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or the UK Counselling for Psychotherapy (UKCP).
Who should I see?
Hopefully some of the above information may help you decide what type of professional is best for you. If you are still unsure, feel free to get in contact with me.