Andy wanted advice for body image and self-esteem issues. Her psychologist suggested she try Chinese acupuncture for breast growth.
Some young Australians say questionable psychological advice has made them wary of seeking out mental health support.The Psychology Board of Australia says concerning advice and treatment should be reported to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.Andy was seeing a psychologist for a few months before one piece of very unconventional advice left her questioning their credibility.
The 24-year-old from Perth was taken aback and questioned the advice enough to search her psychologist's registration online with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency .But Andy's psychologist was fully registered. To register with the Psychology Board of Australia, you need to have done a minimum of six years of education, which can look like a four-year undergraduate degree, plus two years of extra training through a masters and internship.
Emma kept seeing the psychologist for a while but said that was only because it would take too long and cost too much to find another one."I'm definitely a lot more hesitant now, just because you jump through so many hoops to actually get the appointment and be on a waitlist for so long, and then they just can turn out to just not be worth it.
Australian Association of Psychologists director Carly Dober told triple J Hack every psychologist must demonstrate a threshold of competency."But that means if they don't have experience in the area that you're coming to them with, they should refer you onto a colleague who can support you."Ms Dober said it can be difficult to identify when it's time to look for a different psychologist.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Report highlights mental toll on young Australians amid cost-of-living crisisA recent survey found one in five young people are experiencing financial hardship, with impacts on mental health and wellbeing. Experts say many young people are giving up on their dreams as cost-of-living pressures continue.
Read more »
Lachlan Young, 22, pleads not guilty to murder of young Clunes woman Hannah McGuireThe man accused of murdering 23-year-old Victorian woman Hannah McGuire has elected to fast-track the matter to the Supreme Court for trial.
Read more »
Heartwarming scenes as kids visit Perth aged careIt&x27;s a Perth program that unites the young, and young at heart.
Read more »
More cash for millions of Australians from today as welfare payments riseMore than five million people will find themselves with deeper pockets after a boost to multiple payments.
Read more »
A 15 month wait for vital care: why are older Australians being left in the lurch?Tens of thousands of older Australians are waiting up to fifteen months to receive home care support.
Read more »
Australians confused by food date labels ditching good products before their time, new research finds7NEWS brings you the latest local news from Australia and around the world. Stay up to date with all of the breaking sport, politics, entertainment, finance, weather and business headlines. Today's news, live updates & all the latest breaking stories from 7NEWS.
Read more »