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When your teenager is struggling with anxiety or other mental health concerns, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. You might find yourself asking: What’s the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist? Or, how do you choose between a counsellor and a psychotherapist?
We’re here to help make that choice easier. Here’s a simple guide to the different types of professionals who work with adolescents and how each one can support your teenager on their journey to wellbeing.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are medical doctors specialising in mental health. They diagnose and handle severe mental health issues, and can prescribe medication. PrimaHealth does not currently offer psychiatry consultations.
Clinical Psychologists
Clinical Psychologists are experts in mental health who diagnose conditions and use therapy to help manage and overcome challenges. They focus on interventions like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and do not prescribe medication.
Assistant Psychologists
Assistant psychologists are support professionals who typically work under the guidance of clinical psychologists, helping with both therapy applications and administrative tasks.
Psychotherapists/Counsellors
Psychotherapists and counsellors both provide emotional and behavioural support using a range of therapeutic methods. While each profession has developed from different philosophical foundations, in practice, they share many similarities. At PrimaHealth, our psychotherapists and counsellors meet rigorous standards and use evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), to help manage anxiety
Occupational Therapists (OTs)
Occupational therapists help teenagers develop skills to participate in everyday activities. For example, an OT might support a teenager struggling with anxiety to gradually return to school.
Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs)
Speech and language therapists diagnose and treat communication issues. They work with teenagers to improve speech, language, and social communication skills, which can be affected by anxiety.
Educational Psychologists
Educational Psychologists focus on learning and development in educational settings. They provide strategies to help teenagers cope with anxiety or behavioural issues that impact school performance.
Paediatricians
Like psychiatrists, paediatricians are medical doctors for children. While PrimaHealth does not offer paediatric consultations, they can help rule out physical conditions that might contribute to anxiety.
If you're unsure which professional your child might need, speak with one of PrimaHealth’s Case Managers to get personalised guidance. Request a complimentary callback today.