02 Jan Clinical Psychologist vs. Registered Psychologist – What’s the Difference?

When you book an appointment at a psychology clinic, you might choose your psychologist from a selection of clinical and registered psychologists. So, what’s the difference between a clinical psychologist vs psychologist with general registration?

By the end of 2021, there were more than 10,700 clinical psychologists in Australia, and 31,430 registered psychologists. Both have the same training foundation and can provide therapeutic psychology services including evidence-based intervention, diagnosis, and assessment.

Minimum Study Requirements for Psychologists Practising in Australia:

Both professions are well-versed in therapy techniques, with a minimum of six years of comprehensive psychology training and practical experience. They both address a broad spectrum of mental health concerns, ensuring a consistent standard of care for their clients.

Research and Training Requirements for Psychologists Practising in Australia:

Specifically, becoming a registered psychologist requires completing a four-year university degree and either a postgraduate degree or two years of supervised practical training, coming to six total years of psychological study.

One difference is that clinical psychologists complete six years of tertiary study and at least two years of supervised practical training, also known as a registrar program, requiring a minimum of eight years of study.

Approved Psychologist Registration Pathways in Australia:

The primary differentiator between a clinical psychologist vs psychologist lies in their postgraduate qualifications. While a clinical psychologist delves into a Master’s or Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, a psychologist might undertake varied postgraduate degrees, encompassing Professional Psychology, Educational and Developmental Psychology, Counselling, Neuropsychology, Health Psychology, or Criminal Psychology. Sometimes, psychologists complement their undergraduate degree with an internship.

Each of these divergent degrees emphasises different aspects of psychology, as evident from their names. Clinical Psychology accentuates assessment and equips graduates not only to work with psychiatric patients but also to address general mental health issues. For instance, Educational and Developmental Psychology focuses on child and adolescent mental health, early intervention, and comprehensive cognitive and developmental evaluations.

However, while the degrees might specialise in distinct psychology domains, they represent just one facet of a psychologist’s competencies. Equally influential is the focus of their work experience, significantly shaping their proficiency in specific mental health areas.

Medicare Rebate for Clinical Psychologists vs Registered Psychologists:

Another difference is that the clinical psychologist credential attracts a higher Medicare rebate, roughly $40 more than a general psychologist. However, the out-of-pocket expenses might align, contingent on the fees set by the practice—some practices charge higher fees for consultations with clinical psychologists.

To access Medicare rebates, a Mental Health Treatment Plan from a GP is essential, offering up to 10 subsidised sessions per calendar year. Individuals might also qualify for an Eating Disorder Treatment Plan (EDP), entitling them to up to 40 sessions that occur a Medicare rebate in 12 months.

Out-of-Pocket Expenses for a Clinical Psychologist vs Psychologist with General Registration?

The variance in rebates doesn’t always translate to significant differences in out-of-pocket expenses, as psychology practices often tailor their fees accordingly. Transparent discussions about fees and rebates with the psychologist or administrative staff before commencing therapy are vital.

Common Misconceptions of Clinical Psychologist vs Registered Psychologist:

A prevalent misconception often revolves around the assumption that a clinical psychologist holds a superior position compared to a psychologist.

In reality, the proficiency of a psychologist transcends these titles. The distinction between a quality psychologist lies in multifaceted qualities:

• expertise in your specific area of concern
• the ability to foster a robust therapeutic alliance
• the aptitude to inspire hope and motivation for constructive changes
• meticulous planning of your treatment

Finding the Right Psychologist Involves Seeking a Psychologist Who:

• Possesses substantial experience addressing your concerns.
• Exudes warmth and kindness.
• Demonstrates a profound understanding of your challenges.

For comprehensive guidance on finding an ideal psychologist, refer to our blog post on ‘How to Find the Best Psychologist in Melbourne’.

How can Positive Wellbeing Psychology help in finding the right psychologist for you?

Our Melbourne psychology practice includes experienced and warm psychologists with diverse experience across various mental health domains. All our psychologists embody fundamental traits: warmth, conscientiousness, and professionalism. We meticulously pair new clients with a psychologist aligning with their needs and personality.