Mental Health Services – Psychiatrists, Psychologists & Counsellors
Written by Jack Porter - Trainee Underwriter - Casualty
It is important to know the different services that offer assistance to those struggling with their mental health and the risks entailed for each professional.
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who have completed specialised training in how to diagnose, treat and prevent mental, emotional and behavioural disorders, providing:
Diagnosis, treatment, management and prevention of mental health issues.
Talk-based therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy.
Prescribing appropriate medication.
With that in mind, a Psychiatrist would be required to obtain their own Medical Malpractice policy to cover their activities, whilst the Medical Practice policy is designed to cover:
Administration employees;
Counsellors; and
Psychologists.
Psychologists are educated in the science of how people feel, behave and react. They provide help with issues such as anxiety, depression, stress and eating disorders. They require a minimum of 6 years of education and training, typically including years of undergraduate study, followed by 2 years of study in a specialised area, providing:
Diagnosis and treatment
Early Intervention for those at risk
Talk-based therapy
Information and advice
Medical malpractice for Psychologists may include:
Misdiagnosis or Improper treatment
Failure to obtain adequate history
Negligence with suicidal patients
Failure to fulfill a duty of care
Failure to protect Patient Privacy
Any many more…
Counsellors are trained to offer many types of talk-based therapy. A counsellor may work in partnership with a medical doctor or other health professionals at times to give comprehensive and integrated care. Counsellors require a Diploma of Counselling through a university or TAFE. Malpractice in counselling may include:
Using therapy techniques without proper training.
Making excessive or inappropriate self-disclosures.
Failure to adequately document the condition of the patient.
Failing to consult or take advice from peers when appropriate.
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