Psychology is a term we encounter constantly — as a field of study, a profession, and a topic in the media. But what exactly do psychologists do, how do they differ from psychotherapists, and when does it make sense to seek psychological counseling or treatment? This article provides a straightforward overview of the profession in Austria.
What Is Psychology?
Psychology is the scientific study of human experience and behavior. It examines how people think, feel, perceive, and act — and how these processes influence one another. The field encompasses many subdisciplines, from developmental psychology and social psychology to neuropsychology.
Psychologists hold a university degree in psychology. In Austria, this typically means a master's or diploma-level qualification. However, the degree alone does not authorize someone to work independently with patients — that requires additional postgraduate training.
Clinical Psychology: A Legally Regulated Profession
In Austria, clinical psychology has been regulated by the Psychologists Act (Psychologengesetz) since 1990. Clinical psychologists have completed additional postgraduate specialist training after their degree and are registered in the official health professions register. This places clinical psychology — alongside psychotherapy — among Austria's recognized healthcare professions.
Clinical psychologists are authorized to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. They use evidence-based methods such as psychological testing, structured interviews, and targeted interventions. They commonly work in hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, psychosocial counseling centers, or in private practice.
Psychology and Psychotherapy — What Is the Difference?
The terms are often confused in everyday language, but they refer to distinct professions with different training paths:
Clinical psychologists have completed a psychology degree followed by postgraduate specialist training. They often work in diagnostics and counseling, using evidence-based methods. Their particular strength frequently lies in psychological assessment — for example, evaluating attention disorders, learning difficulties, or cognitive impairments.
Psychotherapists have completed a multi-year, legally regulated training program in a recognized therapeutic method. They typically work within a longer-term therapeutic process. A psychology degree is not a prerequisite for psychotherapy training.
Both professions are legally regulated in Austria and registered in the health professions register. In practice, there is overlap — some professionals hold both clinical psychology and psychotherapy qualifications.
Typical Areas of Work in Psychology
Psychologists work across many fields. Here are some of the most common:
Clinical psychological assessment: Testing procedures to evaluate mental health conditions, cognitive abilities, or personality traits. Often the basis for therapy recommendations or expert reports.
Clinical psychological treatment: Targeted short-term interventions for psychological distress — often solution-focused and designed for a limited number of sessions.
Health psychology: Support with behavior change, stress management, and coping with chronic illness. This is also a legally regulated profession in Austria.
Neuropsychology: Assessment and rehabilitation for impairments following brain injuries, strokes, or neurodegenerative conditions.
Counseling and prevention: Psychological support in crisis situations, parenting questions, or workplace challenges.
When Is a Psychologist the Right Choice?
Psychological counseling or treatment may be helpful if you:
want a thorough assessment of your concerns — for example, concentration difficulties, exhaustion, or unclear symptoms
are looking for targeted, often shorter-term support focused on a specific issue
need a neuropsychological evaluation
want a diagnostic assessment before or after psychotherapy
If you are unsure whether a psychologist or a psychotherapist is the right fit, an initial consultation is a good first step. On Therapeutensuche.at, you can search specifically for psychologists in your area and explore their specializations and services.
