Clinical psychologist vs psychologist: How are they different?

Choosing a therapist can feel confusing, especially when you're faced with titles like general psychologist, clinical psychologist, and other types of mental health professionals. While they may seem similar, their training, scope, and services vary in important ways.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between general and clinical psychologists in Australia and how you can decide which professional would fit your needs best.

Quick comparison

Below is an overview of their similarities and differences. However, we’ll discuss them in greater detail in the sections that follow.

General psychologists

All psychologists in Australia must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and follow national standards set by the Psychology Board.

To become a registered psychologist, individuals must:

• Complete a four-year accredited psychology degree

• Follow with either two years of supervised practice or postgraduate training

• Engage in continuing professional development each year

General psychologists make up the majority of mental health professionals in the field. They offer support in areas like private therapy for individuals, couples, and groups; workplace wellness and performance; and community-based and school-based services.

They’re equipped to help with a broad range of challenges, including stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and problems in building or maintaining healthy habits. General psychologists don’t have a single specific focus, making them incredibly versatile.

Clinical psychologists

A clinical psychologist has the same foundational training as a general psychologist, but they go beyond it. In addition to the undergraduate qualifications, they must complete a postgraduate degree—a Master’s or Doctorate in Clinical Psychology—and two years of supervised clinical work through the registrar program. They are also required to attend ongoing training and education.

This extensive training covers complex mental illness and chronic psychological disorders; clinical assessments, testing, and reports; and evidence-based treatment planning.

They often work with people who experience:

• Long-term or treatment-resistant depression

• Bipolar disorder or psychotic conditions

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Personality disorders or complex trauma

Are there other types of psychologists?

Yes. In Australia, registered psychologists may pursue formal endorsements in specific areas of practice, which signify extra qualifications and supervised experience. Common endorsed specialties include:

• Counselling psychology - Focused on relationship challenges, adjustment issues, and emotional resilience

• Educational and developmental psychology - Supports children, adolescents, parents, and carers with issues related to identity formation, child development and behaviours, and learning difficulties

• Forensic psychology - Applies psychological principles within the legal and correctional systems

• Health psychology - Helps people manage illness, chronic pain, and the psychological impacts of medical conditions

• Organisational psychology - Focuses on workplace behaviour, leadership, and employee wellbeing

• Sport and exercise psychology - Works with athletes on motivation, focus, and performance

• Community psychology - Engages in systemic change, advocacy, and population-based interventions

• Clinical neuropsychology - Specialises in brain function and cognitive assessment, often supporting individuals with brain injury, stroke, dementia, or neurological conditions

Aside from psychologists, there are other mental health professionals you can opt for, including counsellors, psychotherapists, and social workers.

Can a psychologists prescribe medication?

No. While able to give a diagnosis and recommendation, neither a clinical psychologist nor a general psychologist can prescribe medication. This can only be done by either a medical doctor or a psychiatrist. 

Psychologists can, however, collaborate with prescribing professionals to support your mental health treatment plan.

Is a clinical psychologist better than a psychologist?

Not necessarily. The quality and outcomes of a psychologist’s support are not determined by their education. Whether they’re a clinical or a general psychologist should only play a small part in considering which professional is the right fit for you.

Consider a clinical psychologist if:

• You're dealing with complex or long-term mental health conditions

• You require in-depth psychological assessments or formal diagnoses

• Other therapies haven't helped, and you need a more tailored approach

A general psychologist might suit you if:

• You're new to therapy and dealing with everyday stress or emotional struggles

• You want someone experienced in coaching, communication, or behaviour change

• You're looking for flexible, cost-effective therapy options

There may be no real advantage or disadvantage in seeing a psychologist versus a clinical psychologist. The therapist that will best suit your needs is someone with experience in the area you’re seeking help for, someone you feel safe and connected with, and someone who will be meticulous in designing your therapy journey and helping you make positive changes.

Medicare rebates in 2025

Eligible clinical psychologists can provide a Medicare rebate of $141.85, while a general psychologist can provide $96.65. You can also use Medicare to see a social worker with a Medicare rebate of $85.20.

At Talked, we make sure you receive the full rebate available. Since each psychologist sets their own rates, be sure to check the out-of-pocket gap fee after your rebate is applied. Keep in mind that you’ll need a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP to access Medicare rebates.

Check out our Medicare page to learn more about rebates for psychology sessions.

Which therapist is right for me?

A therapist’s educational background only forms one part of their competencies. A general rule of thumb in choosing the best psychologist for you is to find someone who:

• understands and has expertise in the area you’re seeking support for;

• helps you feel safe during therapy;

• is accepting, kind, and warm; and

• is able to empathise and articulate your feelings and difficulties

It can also help to ask yourself a few practical questions: What type of support do I need right now? Am I seeking general guidance or treatment for a specific diagnosis? What’s my budget and preferred rebate option?

Whether you choose a psychologist or a clinical psychologist, Talked connects you with compassionate, qualified professionals across Australia. Use our therapist-finder tool to explore options that suit your situation. You can also browse low-cost therapists who may or may not offer Medicare or private insurance coverage.