Muslim Psychologist or Counsellor? What’s the Difference, and Which Do You Need?
If you have searched for a “Muslim psychologist in Sydney” or a “Muslim psychologist near me”, you are not alone. Many people use the words psychologist, counsellor and therapist interchangeably. But they are different professions, and knowing the difference helps you choose the right support, and avoid waiting months for help you could get sooner.
What does a psychologist do?
In Australia, psychologists are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia through AHPRA. They complete at least six years of university training and supervised practice. Psychologists can provide psychological assessment, formal testing and diagnosis of mental health conditions, and evidence-based therapy. With a GP’s Mental Health Treatment Plan, you can usually claim a Medicare rebate for sessions with a registered psychologist.
A psychologist may be the right choice if you need a formal assessment or diagnosis, or if you are living with a severe or complex mental health condition.
What does a counsellor do?
Counsellors are trained in talking therapies that help people work through life’s difficulties: stress, anxiety, low mood, grief, relationship and marriage problems, family conflict, trauma and life changes. Qualified counsellors hold counselling degrees or diplomas and are usually members of a professional body such as the Australian Counselling Association.
Counsellors do not diagnose mental illness, and sessions with a counsellor are generally not covered by Medicare. However, they are often easier to get in to see, sessions can be more flexible, and many people find counselling is exactly what they need.
Which one do you need?
- Consider a counsellor if you want support with stress, worry, sadness, grief, marriage or family problems, a difficult transition, or you simply need a safe place to talk things through.
- Consider a psychologist if you need a diagnosis or formal assessment, if your symptoms are severe or long-lasting, or if you want to use a Medicare Mental Health Treatment Plan.
- See a GP or psychiatrist if you think you may need medication, or if your mental health is seriously affecting your ability to function.
It is not always either/or. Many people start with a counsellor and are referred on if more specialised help is needed. A good counsellor will tell you honestly if your needs are better met elsewhere.
Why many Muslims look for a Muslim practitioner
Whichever profession you choose, it helps to feel understood. With a Muslim counsellor or psychologist, you do not have to explain the place of prayer, family, modesty or halal boundaries in your life. You can bring your faith into the conversation as a source of strength, or keep it out if you prefer. Many Muslims also want to speak with someone of the same gender, especially about personal or family matters.
About Sincere Counselling
Sincere Counselling is a team of qualified counsellors (not psychologists), based in Sydney and seeing clients online via Zoom across Australia and worldwide. Men speak with Wasim Tarsissi and women speak with Mayssa Fawal. We offer individual, couples, youth and family counselling that combines evidence-based approaches with a genuine understanding of Islam.
If you are unsure whether counselling is right for you, contact us for a free phone chat. We will tell you honestly if a psychologist or another service would suit you better.
See our counselling sessions and book online →
Explore our services: anxiety and depression, marriage counselling, youth counselling and counselling for Muslim women.
Sincere Counselling is not a crisis service. If you or someone else is in danger, call 000 in Australia (or your local emergency number). For 24/7 support in Australia, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
