Therapy Roles in Mental Health

Counsellors provide a safe, confidential space for people to talk through what is happening in their lives. Using evidence-based approaches, they help people explore their thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards the changes that matter to them.

Family Therapists work with families, carers and couples to understand how relationships affect wellbeing and recovery. They help families communicate, get through difficult times together, and draw on their strengths to support the person they care about and each other.

Speech Pathologists support people who have difficulties with communication or swallowing. In mental health, they help people understand and express themselves and take part in their care and daily life. They also support safe eating and drinking when medication or health conditions affect swallowing.

Art and Creative Therapists use art, music, movement, drama and other creative processes to help people express experiences that can be hard to put into words. Creative therapies can support healing, self-understanding, connection and recovery, whatever a person’s artistic experience.

Exercise Physiologists design safe, personalised physical activity programs that support both physical and mental health. They help people build fitness, confidence and routine. They also help people manage physical health conditions, including the effects some medications can have on the body.

Dietitians support people to eat well for their physical and mental health. They give practical, personalised nutrition advice and help people manage health conditions and medication side effects. They work with people and their families to build healthy habits that are realistic to keep.

Physiotherapists help people improve movement, manage pain and keep their physical function. In mental health settings, they support people’s physical wellbeing, mobility and activity, recognising the strong connection between physical and mental health.

Behaviour Support Practitioners work with people, families and support teams to understand the reasons behind behaviours of concern. They develop person-centred, rights-based strategies that improve quality of life and reduce the need for restrictive practices.

Allied Health Assistants work under the direction of allied health professionals to deliver therapy and support programs. They help people practise skills, take part in activities and work towards their goals. They play an important part in the day-to-day work of allied health teams.