Are you looking for a psychologist in Brisbane or online who is a great fit for your personal needs? Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma or any other mental health issue, working with a skilled and compatible psychologist can make a world of difference in your healing journey. 

Taking the first step towards finding a psychologist can be overwhelming and for many people they don’t even know where to start. 

Rest assured, my goal through this small yet comprehensive guide is that I guide you through the process of finding the right psychologist for you here in Brisbane or potentially online. From understanding your own needs and preferences to researching potential psychologists, I will provide you with steps and resources you need to make an informed decision. 

Finding the right psychologist is not a one-size-fits-all approach. That is why I encourage you to explore these different factors;
 

• your values,
• circumstances and unique needs
• the psychologist's specialties and credentials
• different therapy approaches
• location and access.

These will help you make the best choice when searching for a professionally trained psychologist who can provide you with support, guidance and the tools you need to overcome challenges and improve your mental well-being.

Types of Psychologists in Brisbane

In Brisbane, you have access to a wide range of psychologists with various specialties and areas of expertise. Understanding the different types of psychologists can help you narrow down your search and find someone who specializes in your specific needs. 

Generally Registered Psychologists: Are psychologists who have completed at least 3000 hours of supervised practice in a workplace and across the lifespan, after completing an undergraduate degree with Honours at University. Generally registered psychologists are able to work with a range of clients and mental health concerns. They can have varied areas of interest and are trained across varied evidenced-based assessment and therapy styles. 

For example, at Be Kind Holistic Health, Mel’s areas of interest are;

• Women’s Health
• Families and Parenting
• Relationships
• Trauma
• Health and Wellness
   

And the therapy styles we practice are.

Person Centered Approach - What we cover each session is established by how you are feeling on that day, and what you need from me as your psychologist at that moment. Rather than following a “lesson plan”.

Solution Focus - In the time we spend together, we will build a “toolkit” of solutions and practices that address both the goals  you have identified and alleviate the symptoms that you are experiencing.  

If you have seen a psychologist before, you may also recognise these therapy styles as key elements of the below three Therapies that I have had 10+ years of experience working with;

• CBT (Cognitive Based Therapy)
• DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy)
• ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

Furthermore, The Australian Psychology Board of Australia recognises several areas of practice endorsement (a Psychologist must apply to be endorsed in speciality after completing post graduate qualification). 

To check if a registered psychologist has one of the below endorsements, review their registration details on the online Register of Practitioners.

Clinical Neuropsychology -typically work in hospital-based assessment services and traumatic brain injury rehabilitation.

Clinical Psychology - Clinical psychologists are trained to diagnose and treat various mental health disorders. They often work with individuals who have severe or complex mental health conditions and use evidence-based therapies to address these issues.

Community Psychology-  specialise in helping communities such as migrant groups, and rural and remote communities. They listen and learn from communities to identify key influencers and social networks, and devise community-led programs to resolve issues, manage change and address risks and threats.

Counselling Psychology - focus on helping individuals deal with everyday problems and challenges. They provide guidance, support, and coping strategies to enhance overall well-being and improve mental health

Educational and Developmental Psychology - are experts in understanding and treating children's mental health issues. They specialize in assessing and supporting individuals with learning difficulties, behavioral problems, or developmental disorders. They work closely with students, parents, and educators to identify and address specific educational needs. They work with children of all ages, providing therapy and support for problems such as ADHD, anxiety.

Forensic Psychology - apply their expertise in psychology to the legal and criminal justice system. They assess individuals involved in legal cases, provide expert testimony, and offer treatment for offenders

Health Psychology - focuses on how biological, social and psychological factors influence health and illness. Health psychologists study how patients handle illness, why some people don't follow medical advice and the most effective ways to control pain or change poor health habits

Organisational Psychology - applies psychological principles and techniques to study occupational behaviour, working conditions and organisational structure, and solve problems of work performance and organisational design.

Sport and Exercise Psychology - help with issues such as performance enhancement and mental skill development, anxiety and stress management, mental focus, team building and leadership, health and wellness, communication and conflict resolution, and more.

Factors to consider when choosing a psychologist
 

Finding the right psychologist goes beyond their area of expertise. To ensure a successful therapeutic journey, there are several factors you should consider before making your decision.

Understanding your specific needs and goals
Before you start your search for a psychologist in Brisbane, it is essential to understand your specific needs and goals. Take some time to 

• reflect on the issues you are facing,
• the outcomes you hope to achieve through therapy,
• and the type of support you require.

Clarifying your needs will help you communicate and assess potential psychologists when you first meet/talk to them during an initial consultation. Remember this is about you and meeting your needs so if you need to try out a few different psychologists to find the right fit that’s ok. 

Scheduling and availability considerations
Practical considerations such as scheduling and availability should also be taken into account. Determine whether the psychologist's office hours and location are convenient for you. Or is online appointments a great flexible option to consider also.  Additionally, inquire about their availability for regular therapy sessions and whether they offer flexibility in case of emergencies or rescheduling needs.

Currently “Be Kind Holistic Health” and Mel’s services are online only. With plans to start in person psychology appointments in the Brisbane and Ipswich area mid 2024. Until then, flexible online appointments are available during business hours, early mornings and late evenings

Researching and gathering recommendations
Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, it's time to start researching potential psychologists in Brisbane. Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare professionals who have had positive experiences with psychologists. 

Online platforms and directories can also provide a wealth of information about psychologists in your area. 

To give you a head start try here: 
https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Registers-of-Practitioners.aspx 
 

You will also find Mel’s professional profile via Halaxy.com along with many other psychologists and health care professionals
https://www.halaxy.com/profile/mrs-melissa-denniston/psychologist/1102301?clinic=883761
 

Evaluating credentials and qualifications
When considering a psychologist, it is crucial to verify their credentials and qualifications. Psychologists must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and hold relevant certifications. These certifications ensure that the psychologist has undergone the necessary training and adheres to professional ethical standards.

Check your psycologist’s credentials via  AHPRA Register of Practitioners. 

Assessing compatibility and therapeutic approach - The Initial Consultation
Compatibility with your psychologist is key to a successful therapeutic relationship. It's essential to find someone you feel comfortable opening up to and who understands your unique needs. Consider scheduling an initial consultation to assess the psychologist's communication style, empathy, and overall approach to therapy. This will help you determine if you feel a connection and if their therapeutic approach aligns with your preferences. 

Remember this is about you and meeting your needs so if you need to try out a few different psychologists to find the right fit that’s ok. 

Making the final decision and taking the first step
After considering all the factors listed above, you should have a clearer picture of which psychologist aligns best with your needs. Trust your instincts and make the final decision based on the information you have gathered. Remember that finding the right psychologist is a collaborative process, and it may take some time to find the right fit. .