Australia's Mental Health Directory
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in Australia
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Counsellor or psychologist: a quick guide
Both provide valuable mental health support. The main differences are training, regulation and Medicare access.
| Feature | Counsellor / Psychotherapist | Psychologist |
|---|---|---|
| AHPRA registration | No (ACA or PACFA accreditation) | Required |
| Referral needed | No | No (but needed for Medicare rebate) |
| Medicare rebate | Generally no | Yes, with Mental Health Treatment Plan |
| Can diagnose | No | Yes |
| Typical session cost | $100–$180 | $180–$320 (gap fees after rebate vary) |
| Best for | Relationships, life transitions, emotional support | Mental health conditions, evidence-based treatment |
What to expect from a counsellor
A safe, confidential space to talk through what is on your mind — on your terms.
No referral required
Book directly — no GP, no referral, no waiting. You can start a counselling relationship as quickly as this week.
Often more affordable
Without AHPRA registration costs, many counsellors offer lower hourly rates than psychologists or clinical social workers. Sliding-scale fees are common.
Telehealth options
Many counsellors offer video sessions, making it easy to access support from anywhere in Australia.
Specialist backgrounds
Counsellors often develop deep expertise in relationship counselling, grief, addiction, trauma, LGBTQIA+ support, or cultural safety.
How to find the right counsellor
Four steps to finding a counsellor who is a genuine fit for you.
Know what you are looking for
Counsellors excel at relationship issues, life transitions, grief, burnout, work stress, and general emotional support. If you need a formal diagnosis or Medicare-rebated sessions, a psychologist or social worker may suit you better.
Check funding options
Most counsellors are not Medicare-covered, but many offer sliding-scale fees. Some employers provide free sessions via an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Private health extras cover may also apply. Always ask about fees before booking.
Filter by specialty and format
Use our directory to narrow by specialty, location, session format and telehealth. Reading the practitioner's profile gives you a sense of their approach before you commit to a session.
Do a free discovery call
Many counsellors offer a free 15-minute call. Ask about their experience with your specific concerns, their session structure, and their fees. The therapeutic relationship is the strongest predictor of good outcomes.
Ready to find a counsellor?
Results are pre-filtered to counsellors. Add location or telehealth to narrow further.
Search counsellors nowFind a counsellor by specialty
Browse by what you are going through to find someone who specialises in your situation.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to see a counsellor?
No. You can book directly with a counsellor or psychotherapist without a GP referral. This makes it easier to access support quickly, especially for relationship concerns, stress, or life transitions.
What qualifications should a counsellor have in Australia?
Look for membership with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). These organisations require members to meet training standards and adhere to a code of ethics. Always check before booking.
Is counselling covered by private health insurance?
Some private health funds include counselling or psychology under extras cover. Check your specific policy. You cannot claim both Medicare and private health for the same session.
What is the difference between a counsellor and a psychotherapist?
In Australia, both titles are used in similar contexts. Psychotherapists typically work with deeper, longer-term patterns and may have completed additional training in modalities like psychodynamic therapy or Gestalt. Counsellors often focus on specific problems or shorter-term support. The boundary is not rigid.
Can a counsellor help with relationship issues?
Yes. Many counsellors specialise in couples counselling, family therapy, and relationship support. Couples counselling is generally not covered by Medicare regardless of the practitioner's title.
What is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?
An EAP is a confidential, employer-funded counselling service at no cost to you. Typically 3 to 8 free sessions are available per issue. Check with your HR team whether your workplace offers one.
How much does a counsellor cost in Australia?
Session fees typically range from $100 to $180 without any rebate. Many counsellors offer sliding-scale fees based on income. Always confirm fees before booking.
Can a counsellor provide a mental health diagnosis?
No. Only AHPRA-registered professionals such as psychologists and psychiatrists are qualified to formally diagnose mental health conditions in Australia.
Mental Health Directory is a directory service, not a healthcare provider. This page provides general information only and does not constitute medical advice. If you need immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or call 000 in an emergency.
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