Psychology is a science and a profession, dedicated to the study of the mind and how it dictates and influences our behaviour, from communication and memory to thought and emotion. It’s about understanding how people think, feel, behave, and learn, and how this understanding can then help people address real life problems and improve their quality of life.
02 - I’ve never seen a psychologist. I’ve always handled things on my own. Is going to therapy a sign of weakness?
Absolutely not. Everyone needs some help now and then. People who ask for help acknowledge that they need it, and have the courage to reach out. Therapy will help you to explore and identify your own strengths, learn new skills and how to implement them, with the goal of reducing the influence of the problems you may be facing. For some people, going to therapy is a sign of strength.
03 - What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
Some friends and family members are great listeners and may give advice that works. However, a psychologist has the skills and training to help you to improve your mental health without risking any possible damage to your personal relationships.
The therapeutic relationship is fundamentally different to a friendship, and, in most circumstances, confidential. Psychologists have ethical and legal responsibilities to protect your rights to confidentially and privacy. There are, however, occasions when psychologists are legally required to disclose information, for example, if they believe you, or someone else, is at risk of harm.
Read More04 - Do I need a referral?
There are a number of different ways to access a psychologist including:
- Medicare – with the appropriate referral or Mental Health Treatment Plan provided by a general medical practitioner, pediatrician or psychiatrist; (https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/better-access-initiative
- Private health insurance;
- Privately;
- National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Employers may offer their employees, and family members, access to contracted psychologists through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Therapeutic Approaches
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Do you need mental health support now?
if you need assistance now, please contact one of the following services or phone 000 in an emergency
Lifeline - call 13 11 14
For support and advice in a personal crisis, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Lifeline also has online chat available from 8pm -midnight seven days a week.
Suicide Call Back Service - call 1300 659 467
For free telephone counselling related to suicide prevention and bereavement, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Kids Helpline - call 1800 55 1800
Kids Helpline is a free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25.