Im often asked what is the difference between each of the professions and so thought I would provide you with some insight around these from my perspective.
While social work, counselling, and psychology all focus on supporting individuals' mental health and wellbeing, they differ in their scope, approach, and areas of practice.
1. Social Work
Focus: Broad, systemic support addressing social, emotional, and practical needs.
Approach: Holistic, looking at social determinants of wellbeing (e.g., housing, relationships, finances).
Training: Bachelor or Master of Social Work.
Work Settings: Community organisations, government agencies, hospitals, child protection, aged care and private practice.
Key Role: Advocacy, case management, crisis intervention, linking clients to services.
Example: A social worker might help a client access housing, employment, or financial support while also providing emotional support.
2. Counselling
Focus: Emotional and psychological wellbeing through talk therapy.
Approach: Person-centred, strengths-based, helping clients develop coping strategies.
Training: Diploma, Bachelor, or Master’s in Counselling.
Work Settings: Private practice, schools, non-profits, healthcare settings.
Key Role: Providing short- to medium-term therapy, supporting personal growth, and managing life challenges.
Example: A counsellor might work with a client experiencing anxiety, helping them develop coping strategies and build resilience.
3. Psychology
Focus: Understanding human behaviour, mental processes, and mental health disorders.
Approach: Scientific and evidence-based, using assessments, diagnosis, and treatment.
Training: Bachelor + Master or Doctorate in Psychology (clinical psychologists can diagnose).
Work Settings: Hospitals, private practice, schools, research institutions.
Key Role: Conducting psychological assessments, diagnosing conditions, providing therapy, and researching mental health.
Example: A psychologist might diagnose a client with depression, develop a treatment plan, and provide cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT).
Each profession plays a vital role in mental health and wellbeing, and they often work together to provide the best support for clients. For example;
Social workers may provide counselling as part of their role.
Counsellors and psychologists often refer clients to social workers for practical support.
Psychologists and counsellors both offer talk therapy, but only psychologists can diagnose mental health conditions.
I hope that this is helpful for you. Feel free to reach out if you would like any further information. We are better together.
Warm regards, Suzanne.
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