Psychologists and other therapists
A number of non-medical professionals can also provide help for depression. These include psychologists, mental health social workers, counsellors and mental health nurses. They typically provide talk therapy such as cognitive behaviour therapy or interpersonal therapy.
How can therapists help?
- By providing an opportunity to talk about your problems and to be listened to in an emotionally supportive and non-judgmental way.
- By helping you to develop specific methods for overcoming depression and preventing it from recurring.
How do I find therapists and therapy services?
Look for therapists who are registered by government or professional bodies. This means that they are qualified practitioners. They must also work within strict codes of conduct. Most registration bodies also require the therapist to keep their knowledge and skills up to date.
- Ask your General Practitioner about local services
- Contact the Australian Psychological Society to find a local psychologist
- Consult the Yellow Pages listings for Psychologists and other therapists
- Seek free support and information about local services from help lines such as Lifeline (131-114) and beyondblue (1300-224-636)
- See BluePages Help and Resources
About registration of therapists
Each professional group has its own standards for registration.
- Psychologists must be registered by the government in the state or territory where they work. They may also be members of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Ph: (03) 8662 3300 (Melbourne only) or 1800-333-497. Some psychologists have undergone extra training and study (eg, Clinical or Counselling Psychologists) and may be members of specialty colleges of the APS.
- Mental Health Social Workers must have experience working with people with mental health issues and be members of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Ph: (02) 6270 7200.
- Counsellors may be members of the Australian Counselling Association or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).
How much does it cost?
Costs vary a great deal. Some services are free and some charge fees that depend on your financial situation. Rebates may be available through Medicare or private health funds. You can find out more from your General Practitioner or by visiting this site: www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/health-pcd-programs-amhpm-pdf-factsheet.