A counsellor, psychotherapist, psychologist and a psychiatrist all work in the mental health field, but they have different roles and qualifications:

Psychiatrist: A psychiatrist is a medically trained clinician. After earning a medical degree and completing a two-year foundation program, doctors undergo at least six years of additional specialised training to become a psychiatrist. Psychiatrists specialise in specific areas such as child and adolescent psychiatry, general adult psychiatry, old age psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, psychiatry of intellectual disability, or medical psychotherapy. They manage and treat individuals with mental disorders, often prescribing medication. Additionally, psychiatrists may offer or suggest a variety of therapies.

Psychotherapist: A psychotherapist helps patients to manage and overcome emotional, behavioural, or mental health issues.  Therapy may be 1-2 times a week. A psychotherapist will typically hold a degree and undergoes specialised training in psychotherapy techniques. They will have undergone years of their own therapy as part of their training, as often as three or more times a week, as part of the qualification process, highlighting their commitment to personal growth and development. Psychotherapists are trained to work more intensively with their clients than counsellors.

Psychologist: Psychology means the study of the mind and behaviour.  Psychologists try to understand why people act in the way that they do so they can use that knowledge to help.  There are different branches of psychology.  Clinical psychologists are interested in mental health problems and draw on different theories about how the mind works to try and reduce distress and improve emotional wellbeing.  They might undertake an assessment, carry out a direct intervention such as talking therapy, or provide advice and consultation to an individual or team.  A clinical psychologist will typically have studied for many years at university undertaking a degree and then a doctorate which involves academic learning, practical experience and research.  Clinical psychologists are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and are often also members of the British Psychological Society.

One of the primary aims of psychoanalysis is to help patients identify the hidden thoughts, behaviors, and desires that are creating problems in their day-to-day existence. The objective is to help patients understand the issues that have caused deeply rooted problems and a maladaptive perspective on life. Psychoanalysis assists the patient in adopting a fresh viewpoint. This new attitude can generate significant change and growth in the patient’s life

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Triggered: When someone is "triggered," it means that they have experienced a stimulus or event that has caused a strong emotional reaction or flashback related to a past traumatic experience. For example, a trigger can be a certain smell, sound, environment an individual and so forth.  This reaction can be sudden and intense, leading the individual to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or distressed. Being triggered often involves feelings of re-experiencing the trauma or feeling as though the current situation is similar to the past traumatic event.

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Trauma: Trauma refers to a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that can have long-lasting effects on a person's mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Traumatic experiences can vary and may include events such as accidents, natural disasters, violence, abuse, or other threatening situations. Trauma can lead to a range of emotional and psychological responses, including feelings of fear, helplessness, numbness, or intrusive memories. Treatment for trauma often involves therapy and support to help individuals process and cope with their experiences.

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Anxiety: Anxiety is a natural reaction to stress and can be characterised by feelings of fear, worry, and unease. It is a normal human emotion that everyone experiences at times, but when anxiety becomes excessive, persistent, or overwhelming, it can interfere with daily activities and quality of life. Symptoms of anxiety may include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.

Anxiety Disorders:  Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions that involve excessive and persistent worry or fear that can be debilitating without appropriate treatment such as therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes.

Depression: Depression is a common and serious mental health condition characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest in activities that one once enjoyed. It can affect how a person thinks, feels, and handles daily activities, often leading to difficulties in functioning and managing relationships. Symptoms of depression may include changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, low energy, feelings of worthlessness, and difficulty concentrating. Treatment for depression may involve therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support from healthcare professionals.

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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):  is a mental health condition that some people develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. PTSD can affect daily activities and quality of life, but with proper treatment such as therapy and medication, many individuals can manage their symptoms and improve their well-being.

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