Universiti Malaya – Wales

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What are the differences between a Registered Counsellor, Clinical Psychologist, and Psychiatrist?

Counsellors, psychologists and psychiatrists all undergo many years of extensive formal training. The basic difference is the focus of the training they have received. As they are all related to mental health the terms therapist, psychologist, counsellor, and psychiatrist often get used interchangeably, but there are important distinctions between them. This table below highlights the similarities and differences between these different mental health professions.

Description Registered Counsellor Clinical Psychologist Psychiatrist (Medical Doctor)
Academic Background Bachelor’s Degree in Counselling OR Master’s Degree in Counselling Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology AND Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology Bachelor of Medicine AND Master of Medicine (Psychiatry)
Accreditation Lembaga Kaunselor Malaysia (LKM) Malaysian Allied Health Professions Council (MAHPC)
Malaysian Society of Clinical Psychology (MSCP)
Malaysian Medical Council (MMC)
Malaysian Psychiatric Association (MPA)
Professional Responsibility Help individuals manage life adjustment and personal issues (e.g. academic matters, relationships, grief, and loss). Provide clinical assessment, diagnosis, and psychotherapy treatment for mental illnesses and neurodevelopmental disorders. Medical doctors specializing in mental illness who provide diagnosis and treatment.
Important Note Do not provide clinical diagnosis or prescribe medication. Do not prescribe medication. More likely to prescribe medication.

Psychiatry Clinic: Referral Process

Government Hospital Private Hospital
Get a general consultation and referral letter from university counsellor
Get a clinical consultation and referral letter from General Practitioner at a private clinic or Klinik Kesihatan
Bring the referral letter, and set an appointment at Psychiatry Clinic
Come on the day. Get a consultation from a Psychiatrist. **Proceed to Emergency Department for emergency case (intense suicidal ideation)
Referral for blood tests or Psychotherapy
Come on your next appointment date
Call or schedule an appointment online at Psychiatry Clinic **referral letter is not required
Come on the day. Get a consultation from a Psychiatrist. **Private hospitals in Malaysia do not handle suicide emergency cases.
Come on your next appointment date