By Rebecca Reid, Provisional Psychologist
When it comes to seeking psychological support, it is important to explore the various options available. One option to consider is whether seeing a Provisional Psychologist may be appropriate for you.
What is a Provisional Psychologist?
A Provisional Psychologist is the title given to an individual who has completed their formal education in psychology but are still in the process of gaining the required supervised experience and training to become fully registered psychologists.
What can a Provisional Psychologist help me with?
Provisional Psychologists at Healthy Mind Centre can provide a range of different services including mental health and diagnostic assessments and therapeutic interventions.
What are the benefits of seeing a Provisional Psychologist?
Supervision and oversight: Provisional Psychologists work under the supervision of experienced fully registered psychologists. This ensures that their work is guided, monitored, and of a high quality. It also gives you the benefit of two (or more) clinicians’ knowledge and expertise.
Affordability and accessibility: Provisional Psychologists often offer their services at a lower rate compared to fully registered psychologists, to ensure their services are accessible. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have financial constraints, or limited access to mental health services. In the interest of equity, HMC reduces the fee for therapy with a Provisional Psychologist to closely align with the out-of-pocket cost of therapy with Medicare-registered HMC clinicians.
Flexibility and choice: Provisional Psychologists do not operate under Medicare. This means that you do not need to be diagnosed with a Mental Health Disorder to access sessions with a Provisional Psychologist. Provisional Psychologists have the flexibility to use a wide range of evidence-based approaches, not limited to Medicare-approved focussed psychological strategies, to meet your needs and goals.
Fresh perspectives and up-to-date knowledge: Provisional Psychologists are recent graduates who bring a wealth of contemporary knowledge and techniques to their practice. Their enthusiasm and passion for the field can foster fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a willingness to explore new therapeutic avenues.
Guidance and personalised attention: Provisional Psychologists often have smaller client loads. This allows them more time to understand your unique circumstances and tailor interventions to suit your specific needs, fostering strong therapeutic alliance.
Is a Provisional Psychologist right for me?
Based on information you provide us about your unique needs and concerns, the triaging team at HMC match you with the most appropriate clinician available within a reasonable timeframe. When looking for a match for you, we consider a variety of factors including the clinician's work times/days, clinical experience, therapeutic approach, additional training, and interest areas.
Provisional Psychologists are competent and qualified to provide psychological services. They work closely with their supervisor/s to ensure they are practicing effectively and within their scope. This involves regular client reviews and ongoing development of skills and knowledge to meet your needs effectively.
Is a Provisional Psychologist right for you? Ultimately, it is a personal decision. Remember, the therapeutic relationship between a client and their clinician plays a key role in the success and effectiveness of therapy. Prioritise finding a clinician with whom you feel safe, understood, and supported as you address challenges and work towards positive change.
To find out more about Provisional Psychologists at HMC, please contact us using your preferred method of communication.