Yes we have a similar process for counselling qualifications in Australia. To be considered a qualified counsellor, one must study in a course approved by the counselling accreditation body and then register with that body. There are a few different levels of study - diploma, graduate diploma, bachelor, and masters - and the higher the level of study, the higher the counsellor's level of accreditation (e.g. Level 1 is someone who graduates with a diploma of counselling; level 2 is someone who graduates with a diploma and has 2 years of experience/graduate diploma OR someone who has studied at a bachelor level; level 3 is someone who has studied at a bachelor level and has 3 years of experience; etc.).
Similar structure for psychology. A general psychologist can study at university for 4 years and then undergo 2 years of supervised practice to become a fully qualified general psychologist. For a specialist endorsement (e.g. clinical psychologist, forensic psychologist), a minimum of 6 years at university is required, upon where you graduate as a fully qualified general psychologist, and then undertake 2 years of supervised practice in the endorsed field to be an endorsed specialist.
It's always really interesting to come on here and learn about the processes in the UK, because our referral processes are quite different. I think the stepped care approach has it's pros: levels 2 and 3 may be better suited to some people who are unwilling to engage in level 4 supports, and this stepped approach is a fantastic way to provide appropriate and relevant services to those who may not necessarily want or need level 4 support. However, the cons are obvious in that someone who does require level 4 support must first go through the lower levels that are less tailored and may provide them with minimal relief until they can finally access the level 4. In theory it seems like a good process, but it seems that it isn't being implemented in the best way as yet.
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Originally Posted by MrAndy
