A psychologist is a professional trained in the science of how people think, feel, behave, and learn.

In Australia, psychology is a regulated profession. Practitioners who call themselves Psychologists must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and listed with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

There are different types of psychologists who specialise in a range of areas. You might find a psychologist working in a private practice, school, organisation, hospital, or research facility. Some psychologists provide assessment and therapy to clients.

A psychologist who provides therapy is trained in assessment and treatment of mental health issues. Your psychologist will assess your concerns and life circumstances and then offer support, education, and treatment to help address the presented issues.

This assessment will mean asking detailed questions about your life including your background, family life, work, mood, medical history, and personal history. The assessment is all about collecting information on your function, coping, thoughts, feelings, and behaviour – all part of the process to help identify what’s going on for you.

Life is full of challenges. Having difficulties is a normal experience. Even with family and friends around or skills and strategies on board, life can be a struggle at times.

When things aren’t going well and life feels overwhelming, it can be hard sometimes to work out how to move forward and help yourself. A psychologist can do just that, work alongside you to change and shift thoughts, feelings and behaviours in your life that are challenging or causing stress.

No matter why you end up seeing a psychologist and what your reason is for seeking help – it is so important to find a psychologist you can connect with and trust. Working with a psychologist is a relationship, it has to fit, feel comfortable and the trust factor must be there. You might have to talk to a few before you find one that clicks for you.

If you have any questions about seeing a psychologist, would like to make an appointment or need more information, feel free to submit an enquiry at www.daniellasiciliano.com.au. I’d be happy to hear from you!