What is the difference between a clinical psychologist and a counsellor?

Feature	Clinical Psychologist	Counsellor
Training and qualifications	Holds a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in clinical psychology. Training combines academic study with extensive supervised clinical practice on specific talking therapies and techniques.	Typically holds a diploma or a master's degree in counselling. Training is focused on specific talking therapies and techniques.
Professional regulation	Legally regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), a government body that oversees and investigates protected titles.	The title "counsellor" is not legally protected. However, many are voluntarily accredited by professional bodies like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
Scope of practice	Works with individuals with more severe, complex, and long-term mental health conditions, such as psychosis and severe trauma as well as with those experiencing mild to moderate mental health issues or psychological distress. Uses scientifically-backed, structured treatment based on a psychological formulation (understanding of the problem).	Primarily works with individuals experiencing mild to moderate mental health issues, such as stress, grief, and relationship problems. Focuses on helping clients talk openly and process their feelings to discover their own solutions.
Therapeutic approach	Trained in a wide range of evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Systemic Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), to tailor treatment to specific needs.	Often specialises in a specific therapeutic approach, such as person-centred therapy or psychodynamic therapy. Some are trained in a range of approaches and work in an integrated or "pluralistic" way.
Assessment	Conducts formal psychological assessments, to understand the client's psychological situation. Can provide an official diagnosis for complex mental health disorders but often focus less on formal diagnosis and rather on helping the client to achieve their therapy goals.	Focuses less on formal diagnosis and more on helping the client explore their difficulties.
Medical responsibilities	Cannot prescribe medication, as they are not medical doctors. However, they may work with psychiatrists who can.	Cannot prescribe medication.
Work settings	Often employed within the National Health Service (NHS), hospitals, and mental health clinics. Also work in private practice.	Works in private practice, educational institutions, charities, and counselling centres.