Irish Association of Holistic Medicine

 

The Diploma in Counselling & Psychotherapy

 

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

What are the career opportunities in holistic psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy graduates work in private practice or from their own home on a full or part-time basis.  Many graduates use their psychotherapy skills in their existing occupations as teachers, counsellors, priests, doctors, nurses, youth leaders, personnel administrators or business managers.  Large business organisations often require consultants in the area of stress management and there is an upsurge in interest in the optimal use of the mind in sports.  Psychotherapy skills can also be used in both personal life and in work, for relationships, parenting, influencing people, public speaking, etc.

 

What is the difference between psychotherapy and psychology?

Psychology in its broadest sense is the study of human behaviour.  Psychologists work in a wide range of fields including education, computers, personnel management, health, marketing and advertising.  Psychotherapists apply psychological techniques and principles in a therapeutic setting.  While training in the relevant psychological principles are important to psychotherapists, it is not necessary to be a psychologist to train or work as a psychotherapist.

 

What is the difference between psychotherapy and psychiatry?

Psychiatrists normally work in a hospital setting and are likely to be more concerned with severe mental disorders than with the wide range of problems and difficulties about which it is appropriate to consult a psychotherapist.  In addition, as they are medical doctors, they can prescribe drugs which psychotherapists cannot.  Referrals to psychiatrists are normally done through consultation with the client’s own doctor.

 

What is the difference between psychotherapy and psychoanalysis?

Psychoanalysis, originated by Freud, is one of the earliest forms of psychotherapy and for many people is often mistakenly regarded as the only form of psychotherapy.  It is only one of many forms of psychotherapy.  It is often a very intense process with hourly sessions for up to four days a week for several years.

 

What about regulation of professional practice

At present, the Irish Department of Health is looking at options regarding the state registration of therapists in a wide range of disciplines.  The process is beginning with primary care health professions such as psychologists and occupational therapists , and is expected that a framework will be developed for the psychotherapy profession. In meantime, counsellors and psychotherapists are self-regulated and peer-accredited through their professional associations, of which there are at least six in Ireland.