Which type of therapy should I choose?
For many issues, the choice of therapy type often depends on availability, price and other personal factors. But for some conditions it can be more important to know the training and specialisation of the different types of practitioners.
Below we list some common issues, and which types of therapy may be more suitable.
Anxiety
Anxiety is the most common mental health issue, and most therapists can help. For severe or long-lasting anxiety, you may want to talk to a psychologist.
Depression
Depression is a very common mental health issue, and when severe or long-lasting, you may want to talk to a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a fairly common mental health issue, and normally requires help from a psychiatrist, as it may need medication.
Bipolar
Bipolar Disorder is a fairly common mental health issue, and normally requires help from a psychiatrist, as it may need medication.
Self-Harm and Suicide
Self-harm, thoughts about death, and suicide attempts are obviously serious and should normally be handled by psychologists or psychiatrists.
Challenging Behaviour
Challenging behaviour in children and teens is not normally a disorder, but counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can help.
Emotional Difficulties
Counsellors & psychotherapists can normally help, but for more severe or long-lasting issues, you may prefer a psychologist.
Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are fairly common, and psychologists are trained to help manage and reduce the frequency of episodes.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are now rather common but these issues can be helped with a program from a psychologist
What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
Most people aren’t confident with the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist, or a counsellor and a psychotherapist, so we’ve written a simple guide. You can find it here.
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