What Is the Difference Between an Educational, Clinical, and Counselling Psychologist in South Africa?
When choosing a psychologist, it can be confusing to know which “type” of psychologist to approach. Do I need a Clinical Psychologist? A Counselling Psychologist? Or an Educational Psychologist? What is the difference?
In South Africa, psychologists register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) under different categories, the three most common being Clinical, Counselling, and Educational. In the past, each category had a legally defined “scope of practice” that set out which kinds of clients and interventions they could work with. However, in 2016, the High Court declared these scope of practice regulations invalid.
This means that psychologists in South Africa no longer have a legally binding “scope of practice” based on their registration category. Instead, the current regulations refer to a “Scope of Profession” (2008), which outlines the overall acts that all psychologists may perform. Psychologists may offer any of these services provided they are properly trained and competent to do so. This principle is reinforced by the HPCSA’s ethical code (Annexure 12), which requires psychologists to work within their scope of competence.
Because training pathways differ across universities and between individuals, each psychologist’s specific skills and experience can look quite different. While their initial master’s training and internships are shaped by their registration category, psychologists continue to learn and develop their expertise throughout their careers. Over time, their work often extends well beyond the focus they trained in initially.
In other words, while registration categories reflect where psychologists start out, they do not limit what psychologists can do. The most important factor when choosing a psychologist is not their category, but their individual training, experience, and areas of competence.
Choosing the Right Psychologist for You
Rather than focusing only on a psychologist’s registration category, it can be helpful to consider their experience, approach, and the kinds of clients or difficulties they regularly work with. Many psychologists describe their areas of interest and therapeutic style on their websites or professional profiles. It can also be useful to reach out directly to ask whether their experience aligns with what you are looking for. Ultimately, the best fit is often the psychologist whose training and approach feel relevant to your needs and with whom you feel comfortable and understood.
Trust that finding a good fit is less about choosing the “right” category and more about finding someone you feel safe with and who helps you feel understood, supported, and not alone.