Australian psychologists have high national standards of education and training, which ensures excellent psychological care for the Australian community and are critical to solving the mental health crisis, according to the Australian Psychological Society.
An article published by Fairfax Media this week suggested there was no national standardised training system for the profession, which is incorrect.
Australia has world-leading psychology education standards, set and updated by the independent quality and standards organisation the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). APAC accredits more than 600 programs of study across 41 high education providers in Australia and Asia.
The term psychologist is also a restricted title, meaning all those who use it must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. To achieve registration as a psychologist, candidates must have at least six years of university education and supervised experience. They must also engage in significant continuing professional development.
Some of Australia’s more than 29,000 general registered psychologists also have education and training in specific areas of psychology such as counselling, health, forensic, organisational, community, educational and developmental, sports and exercise, clinical and clinical neuropsychology that are recognised as ‘areas of practice endorsement’.
APS CEO Frances Mirabelli said: “Psychologists are highly trained, thoroughly regulated and continue to update their skills throughout their career. Members of the community can be confident in the training and abilities of psychologists to use evidence-based psychological approaches to help people make changes in their lives across a range of contexts.”
All psychologists must adhere to the APS Code of Ethics, which has been developed by the APS over many years to ensure best standards of care for the Australian community. The APS has campaigned for high standards throughout its 50-year history to ensure that Australians enjoy world-standard care.
“Psychology is an incredibly diverse field. As the leading association for psychologists, the APS has more than 50 groups representing areas of professional interest alone, but all psychologists share a commitment to providing clients with evidence-based and ethical services.”
“As the largest mental health workforce in Australia, psychologists are critical to addressing the mental health crisis in Australia – and are very well equipped to do so. In addition to mental health expertise, psychologists are also equipped to address a broad range of psychological issues experienced by the Australian community.”
For more information, or to arrange an interview call the APS Media team on 03 8662 3358 / 0435 896 444, or email. Find the APS Media team on Twitter: @AustPsych
The APS is the largest professional organisation for psychologists in Australia, representing more than 27,000 members. The APS is committed to advancing psychology as a discipline and profession. It spreads the message that psychologists make a difference to people’s lives, through improving psychological knowledge and community wellbeing.