Who Should I See?

Getting help for mental, emotional, spiritual, or relationship issues can be difficult. Finding the right mental health professional can help you take control of any issue in your life. Different therapists and many different therapeutic modalities can often lead to confusion.

Understanding the different occupational titles is a first step, here we aim to explain different occupations.

Coach

A coach is a professional who provides guidance, support, and training to individuals or teams in various aspects of life, such as sports, career, personal development, or business. Coaches help clients set goals, develop strategies, and overcome obstacles to achieve their desired outcomes.

Career Coaching - Assists individuals in identifying their strengths, interests, and goals, and guides them in making informed career decisions.

Personal Development Coaching - Supports individuals in setting and achieving personal goals, improving self-confidence, developing better habits, and overcoming challenges.

Business Coaching - Works with entrepreneurs, executives, and teams to enhance leadership skills, improve workplace dynamics, and achieve business objectives.

Coaches typically use a combination of questioning, active listening, and feedback to facilitate self-awareness, learning, and growth. They create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.

It's important to note that a coach is NOT a counsellor or psychotherapist. While coaches may address certain emotional or psychological aspects of a client's life, their primary focus is personal or professional growth and goal achievement.

Counsellor

Counsellors typically focus on providing short-term support and guidance to individuals facing specific challenges or life transitions. They often use active listening, empathy, and problem-solving techniques to help clients navigate difficulties.

Counselling can be helpful for individuals who are experiencing relationship issues, grief, stress, or career concerns.

Psychotherapist

Psychotherapists generally provide more in-depth and long-term therapy to individuals who may be dealing with complex psychological issues. Psychotherapy aims to explore the underlying causes of emotional distress and works towards resolving deep-seated problems.

Depending on their training, psychotherapists often use various therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, or humanistic therapy, depending on the needs of the client.

Psychotherapy can be beneficial for individuals with conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, personality disorders, or addiction.

Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist can be a beneficial step in taking care of your mental health. Psychiatrists are medical professionals who specialise in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as persistent sadness, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, or thoughts of self-harm, it may be a good idea to consult with a psychiatrist.

Psychiatrists can provide a comprehensive assessment, offer a diagnosis, and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. They may recommend therapy, medications, or a combination of both to help manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

Clinical Psychologist

A clinical psychologist can be a beneficial step in addressing various mental health concerns. Clinical psychologists are trained professionals who specialise in diagnosing and treating psychological disorders. They can help individuals navigate through difficult emotions, cope with stress, and develop effective coping strategies.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as persistent sadness, anxiety, or difficulty functioning in daily life, it may be worth considering a visit to a clinical psychologist. They can provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, and work with you to develop personalised treatment plans.

Clinical psychologists use evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic therapy, to help individuals overcome their challenges. They can also provide guidance and support for individuals dealing with issues such as trauma, addiction, or relationship problems.

It is important to note that seeing a clinical psychologist does not mean that there is something inherently wrong with you. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and seeking professional help is a proactive step towards taking care of yourself.