Psychologists are mental health professionals trained to assess, diagnose, and treat psychological disorders. They often work in private practice, hospitals, clinics, or academic settings and are equipped to provide evidence-based therapy for a wide range of mental health and diagnosed concerns. Psychologists must be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and typically hold a Master’s or Doctoral degree in psychology. Their scope includes conducting psychological assessments, formulating diagnoses, and offering therapeutic interventions.

HPCSA-registered counsellors are trained to provide psychological services such as psychoeducation, preventative interventions, and psychological assessments. They operate within the formal mental health care system and are regulated under the Health Professions Act. While they do not diagnose or treat mental illness, their scope includes psychological screenings and referrals within clinical or community-based settings.

ASCHP-accredited wellness counsellors, like myself, offer non-diagnostic emotional support and are not part of the formal psychological or psychiatric care system. My role is to promote well-being through everyday support, assisting clients in managing stress, life transitions, and common emotional difficulties. This field is considered supportive and acts as a first line of defence to requiring more extensive mental health support.