Second step on the Ladder: Navigating the Mental Health Industry in the workplace.
Part 2 - The next steps
Disclaimer:
The information provided in these posts are for general knowledge and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate medical attention.
If any content within this post causes distress or triggers any emotional difficulties, please reach out to a mental health professional or a crisis support service in your area. Your well-being is important, and seeking help is a sign of strength.
Australian Lifeline - 13 11 14
As discussed in the previous post, reaching out to your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or General Practitioner (GP) is often the first step towards accessing additional mental health support in the workplace when dealing with grief. Navigating the mental health system can feel overwhelming, especially when you're already dealing with grief. These initial contacts can provide valuable guidance and referrals to a network of professionals who can offer specialised help. In this post, light will be shed on the different types of mental health professionals you might encounter – counsellors, psychologists, and psychiatrists.
Counsellor
Who are they?
A counsellor supports individuals or families to navigate challenges that can negatively impact their mental, emotional, and social well-being through guided conversations.
What can they do?
Provide a safe space to explore thoughts, feelings, attitudes, and behaviours
Actively listen and summarise clients' concerns
May have specialised training in areas like grief counselling
Must be qualified with an Advanced Diploma or higher from a recognised provider
Often work in tandem with or are recommended by a GP
What can't they do?
Their services are not covered by Medicare
Cannot sign clients off work
Cannot interact with third parties (e.g., insurance companies) to provide evidence for a claim
Additional Information: Australian Counselling Association (ACA)
Psychologist
Who are they?
A psychologist is a mental health professional trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental, emotional, and behavioural issues using evidence-based therapies.
What can they do?
Diagnose mental health conditions
Provide therapy and interventions
Must have a minimum of a Master's degree in psychology
Must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
Their opinions may be sought by third parties (e.g., insurance companies)
Most services can be subsidised through Medicare with a GP referral
Many work in tandem with or are recommended by a GP
Can sign a client off work for specific mental health conditions
Can specialise in certain areas (e.g., children's mental health)
Can be involved in research
What can’t they do?
Cannot prescribe medication
Their professional opinion may not always carry the same weight as a medical doctor's in certain contexts (e.g., insurance claims)
Cannot diagnose or treat physical health conditions
May need to coordinate with a GP or psychiatrist for long-term work absences
Additional Information:
Australian Psychological Society (APS)
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
Psychiatrist
Who are they?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specialising in mental health. They can diagnose, treat, and prevent mental, emotional, and behavioural disorders.
What can they do?
All the above roles, but may not be involved in every aspect of mental health care
Requires a GP referral for Medicare rebates
Create a Mental Health plan
Can assess and treat patients in emergency mental health situations
Can order involuntary treatment in serious cases
Manage complex medication needs
Prescribe and request testing for physical conditions
Can specialise in specific areas (e.g., post-natal depression)
Their opinions are often sought by third parties (e.g., insurance companies)
What can’t they do?
Due to high demand, patients may spend more time with their psychologist and see the psychiatrist less frequently for medication reviews and progress checks
Consultations can be expensive without subsidies or private health insurance
Additional Resources:
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatry
Conclusion
Navigating the mental health system and understanding the roles of different professionals can be confusing, especially when dealing with workplace issues and requirements. It is good to remember that seeking help after a devastating loss is not uncommon and there are many resources available to support you. It is best to seek out this support before it becomes overwhelming to you and your family.