What’s the difference between a psychologist and a clinical psychologist?

Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists are both registered with Australian Health Practitioner's Registration Agency (AHPRA).

How long does it take to become a clinical psychologist?

In Australia, one pathway to become a clinical psychologist takes a minimum of 8 years.

When should I see a clinical psychologist instead of a general psychologist?

This may be your individual preference or your referring GP or Psychiatrist may make some suggestions.

Can clinical psychologists diagnose mental health conditions?

Clinical psychologists are mental health professionals trained in understanding, assessing, and providing treatment for many mental health conditions.

What’s the Medicare rebate for seeing a clinical psychologist?

Medicare rebates apply with a valid plan and referral. The exact rebate is set by Medicare.

Are clinical psychologists better for complex mental health issues?

They often have advanced training for complex cases. The team can advise on the best fit for you.

Can clinical psychologists work with children and adults?

The practice supports children, adolescents and adults, and the team can match you with a clinician who works with your age group.

Psychologists, Clinical Psychologists & Therapists

At Inner Eastern, we understand that individuals seek therapy for a range of reasons. All the clinicians in the team are trained independent mental health practitioners, such as Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists in Melbourne, and Accredited Mental Health Social Workers, with skills in a variety of therapy frameworks and experience with different mental health needs.

We value diversity and inclusivity within our team, which is broadened by the variety of cultural and life experience backgrounds that clinicians come from.

A collaborative process of assessment and goal setting is usually undertaken in the initial phases of therapy to better identify your individual needs, context and evidence-based approaches that may be suitable.

You can learn more about our services and approach here.

Please see below the list of clinicians practicing at Inner Eastern Psychology.

frequently asked questions

Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists are both registered with Australian Health Practitioner's Registration Agency (AHPRA). It is common that Clinical Psychologists have additional postgraduate studies. There are both Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists at Inner Eastern Psychology, and for some clients, they may feel comfortable with either. You can discuss your needs with our Client Services Team or seek further advice from your referring Doctor if you are unsure. You can learn more about Psychologists via our General FAQs here
In Australia, one pathway to become a clinical psychologist takes a minimum of 8 years. This includes completing an accredited four-year undergraduate degree in psychology, followed by an honours year. Following this,postgraduate training such as a Master’s or Doctorate Degree, as well as another two-year of registrar training in Clinical Psychology is required. Psychologists, regardless if they are clinical or not, must maintain valid registration with the Australian Health Practitioner's Registration Agency (AHPRA) and maintain professional standards in ongoing education and professional development.
This may be your individual preference or your referring GP or Psychiatrist may make some suggestions. Both options are available here at Inner Eastern Psychology. It is important to choose a Psychologist that is suitable for your needs, based on their areas of interests and specific training, rather than solely based on their endorsement and qualifications.
Yes. Clinical psychologists are mental health professionals trained in understanding, assessing, and providing treatment for many mental health conditions. In general, a psychologist or clinical psychologist will have general training plus areas that they have special interest or further experience in, depending on their professional experiences. For example, there are several clinical psychologists at Inner Eastern Psychology that can provide formal ADHD and ASD assessments, or diagnostic assessments for Personality Disorders such as BPD. They can provide suggestions around psychological therapies, and it’s important to note that at this point in time, psychologists do not prescribe any medications.

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