Healthcare services, meaning therapy, are how specialists treat various mental illnesses, such as anxiety disorders, personality disorders, affective disorders, and mood disorders. In these cases, sometimes a combined therapy is needed, so with the help of a psychiatrist colleague, medication can also be used alongside psychotherapy. The specialist needs a wealth of methodological background knowledge to be able to handle the existing problem or list of symptoms competently. Such mental health issues can include depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, etc.

Within counseling, we can receive supportive help, such as life coaching, help with difficulties in our careers or family lives, we can build self-awareness and self-confidence, or simply develop our communication skills. For these kinds of problems, a different type of approach and toolkit is needed from the specialists, so you will often see different educational backgrounds listed for them.

Of course, clients aren't always aware of this background information or the various positions and training rights within the profession. Even though we officially call what a certified psychologist does counseling, clients will tell their friends they are "going to therapy", and that is absolutely fine—everyone knows exactly what they mean.

In practice, naturally, the picture is a bit more nuanced, and even as a professional, the many methodological paths can feel like a real maze. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy. In Hungary, certified psychologists can complete this training—they become cognitive behavioral therapy consultants. Clinical psychologists and psychotherapists can also take it—they become cognitive behavioral therapists. Even people without a psychology degree can take it—they also receive the title of cognitive behavioral therapy consultant. The method itself is psychotherapy, yet the helping professional cannot call it therapy when using it if their qualification doesn't allow it (the exception being clinical psychologists/psychotherapists). And it is the same with other approaches, too. See, we told you it's a real maze!

So, the point is not what we call the helpful activity itself, but rather that we turn to a professional with the right competencies for our specific problem, with whom we can work on our blocks and mental difficulties in a trusting, safe relationship.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist has a medical degree and can prescribe medication, while a psychologist has a degree in humanities and helps through exploratory conversation, teaching various tools, and using psychological methods.

Who is authorized to make an official diagnosis of a mental illness?

In Hungary, only a person with a qualification in clinical psychology is authorized to make a clinical diagnosis of mental disorders.

How do I know if I need counseling or psychotherapy?

For example, if you are stuck in your personal life or self-awareness, counseling will help. But if your symptoms (such as deep depression or severe panic) interfere with your daily life and cause you suffering, you need a clinical specialist and therapy.

Is psychological help available for free, through public healthcare?

Yes, in public healthcare, clinical psychologists also see patients at the locally competent psychiatric care centers or outpatient clinics.