What’s the Difference Between a Counselling Psychologist, a Psychotherapist, and a Counsellor?

When seeking mental health support in Ireland, it’s common to come across the terms counselling psychologist, psychotherapist, and counsellor. While these professionals all aim to help people improve their mental well-being, there are important differences in their qualifications, training, and the types of support they offer.

Counselling Psychologist

A counselling psychologist is a highly trained mental health professional who typically holds a doctorate-level qualification in psychology. In Ireland, counselling psychologists are registered with the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) and have extensive training in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based therapies. They are qualified to work with a wide range of mental health issues, from anxiety and depression to more complex psychological conditions. Counselling psychologists often work in hospitals, clinics, private practice, and academic settings, and are skilled in using psychological testing and formal

s to inform treatment.

Psychotherapist

A psychotherapist usually has a master’s degree in psychotherapy or a related field and is trained to help clients explore deeper emotional and psychological patterns. Psychotherapists in Ireland may be accredited by bodies such as the Irish Council for Psychotherapy (ICP) or the Irish Association of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy (IAHIP). Their work often involves long-term therapy, focusing on understanding the root causes of emotional distress and supporting clients through personal growth and healing. Psychotherapists may work in private practice, mental health clinics, or community organisations, and their approach is often more exploratory and insight-oriented.

Counsellor

A counsellor generally completes a diploma or undergraduate degree in counselling and is trained to provide support for everyday life challenges, such as stress, relationship issues, or grief. In Ireland, counsellors may be accredited by the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). Counsellors focus on creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can talk through their concerns and develop coping strategies. While they may not conduct formal psychological assessments, counsellors play a vital role in offering accessible, short- to medium-term support in schools, community centres, and private practice.

In summary:

While counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, and counsellors all support mental health, they differ in their qualifications, training, assessment skills, and the types of clients and issues they work with. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right professional for your needs.