Psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor?
What’s the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist and a counsellor?
In brief a psychologist is someone who has obtained no less than a masters degree specialising in long term therapy and for more severe psychological struggles and mental disorders; a psychiatrist has specialised in the medical side of psychology and is someone who is qualified in prescribing medication for various mental disorders and problems; and a registered counsellor is a qualified professional for the ‘everyday person’ and specialises in helping people cope with various life events and concerns.
Why choose a counsellor?
Counsellors who are registered with the HPCSA (Health Professions Counsel of South Africa) are trained professionals who have completed their honours degree and mastered their board exams and are upheld by the very high ethical standards set by the health professions counsel. Registered Counsellors have practice numbers (for example, mine is PRC0016837).
Counselling offers a safe, private setting orientated at supporting individuals and families to function smoothly. Counsellors are trained to work with life events that detract from healthy / happy living. Anything from coping with bereavement or divorce complications to truancy and academic performance can be addressed with counselling.
anxiety | behaviour | divorce | bereavement | self-esteem | abuse
bullying | truancy | values | teenage-angst | sibling rivalry | family disharmony
In today’s world where the nuclear family is less common (either broken, no longer recognised, or where both parents work), counselling or psychological intervention has become a necessity. Not only are the children confused and without boundaries; but the parent(s) are exposed, and put into situations of uncertainty as they often cannot raise the child(ren) as they themselves where raised. Media, violence, divorce and medication puts additional pressure, ambiguity and insecurity on the families.
Every child has the ability to be who they are meant to be; that they are created wonderfully and that they sometimes just need a little help to see a bigger picture or to be reminded of their incredible worth and potential.
TEHILLA NICOLE LUTTIG | CHILD AND FAMILY COUNSELLOR
HONS. BSocSci PSYCH PRC0016837
info@kawacounselling.co.za
083 639 3339