At the APSPP we believe that psychologists in private practice possess considerable experience and skills to diagnose a range of psychological conditions and we encourage users of psychological services to arrange an assessment consultation for a proper diagnosis.  We expect that all psychologists will be able to, through their own assessment technique, diagnose and recommend the best treatment approach for the patient. Whether they possess the skills to provide this service or the requirement of a referral to another practitioner.

It is for the reason above that we have not distinguished in terms of conditions.  We believe that the psychologist you attend will be able to provide the necessary assessment and best recommendation.

• A one stop shop for psychologists and probationary psychologists
• A specialized advertising and marketing website, and we present the work of clinicians in private practice.
• Undertaking to distribute information about the work of clinicians in private practice.
• A low cost, interactive website, providing an alternative method of advertising for clinicians in private practice.
• Focused on the needs of clinicians and the tools they require in undertaking their work.
• The best alternative to current services available to clinicians at present time.
• Assisting probationary psychologists to be in touch with other psychologists in the field.

Medication is used as a way of providing symptom relief and is not a cure for psychological conditions. To glean insight into the presenting problem is one way of generating solutions to the problem.  Often a patient will take medication and experience relief from their symptoms; however, when they discontinue the medication they experience a relapse in their condition.  A level of dependency on medication can often result from this. If you are taking medication it is important to clarify with the prescriber the reason for the medication and can anything else be coupled with this to increase the effectiveness of the treatment.

The short answer is yes, and it is recommended that you ask a clinician to provide information about their treatment approach when you consult them. You can expect that they will provide you with statements about their treatment approach for the problem you are presenting.

A psychologist is a person who has completed either a four year degree with two years supervision or a six year degree with one year supervision. They are trained in diagnosing and treating mental health problems. They cannot prescribe medication in the treatment of mental health, even though they would be aware of the types of drugs used in the treatment of mental health.

A psychiatrist is a trained and registered medical practitioner who has also completed post graduate studies in the area of mental health.  They can prescribe medication in the treatment of mental health.

It is not unusual for a psychiatrist and a psychologist to work together in their management of a patient with mental health issues.

A registered psychologist is a person who has completed an undergraduate degree and post-graduate qualifications in psychology. They also have to complete either one year or two year internship supervision with a qualified psychologist prior State Board Registration. 

A probationary psychologist has completed their course of study and would be under the supervision of a State Registered psychologist before gaining registration.  If you are consulting a probationary psychologist they must advise you of their level of registration.

This is a difficult one to answer as the effectiveness of any treatment is dependent on a number of variables. How responsive and ready you are to overcome the problem.  What are your expectations about treatment?  Most clinicians can provide some timeframes when asked.  Be forthright and ask the clinician whether they can help.  How can they help? Given their experience with this type of case can they provide details about how long it is likely to take.