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What is a Counselling Psychologist?

There are subtle differences between Clinical Psychologists and Counselling Psychologists. Many differences stem from historical subtleties.

Historically, Clinical Psychology was born from Psychiatry and work very closely with Psychiatrists in executing the management plan of individuals with serious mental health conditions. Consequently, Clinical Psychologists train with an emphasis on psychopathology and psychological assessments, and they usually develop their skills in hospital or other acute clinical settings. Clinical Psychologists provide a wide range of psychological services to individuals across the lifespan and for mental health conditions that range from mild to severe and complex.

By contrast, Counselling Psychology developed from counselling and guidance. Counselling Psychologists are involved in working with individuals to cope with difficulties in life, and are trained on providing targetted interventions with a focus on coping and functionings. They employ a wide variety of techniques and therapeutic approaches that help individuals process issues such as grief and loss, significant life transitions, relationship difficulties, domestic violence, sexual abuse or assault, trauma, maintaining healthy lifestyles, vocational assessments and career development.

Nevertheless, given the evolving complexity of mental health, there has been an increasing overlap in the scope of work for Clinical and Counselling Psychologists, and professionals from both fields are equipped to deal with a range of presenting issues. Registered Psychologists from both fields are overseen by the Singapore Psychological Society, which stipulates minimum qualification requirements of a Master degree and practical experience in the form of client contact and supervision hours.

Once you have made the decision to start psychotherapy, be it to cope with difficulties in life, improve functioning level, or to manage a complex concern, you can be assured that you would be supported by a trained mental health professional.