Community Psychologists

Who are Community Psychologists?

Community psychologists have specific training and experience in understanding and supporting the needs of people in their communities. They focus less on ‘problems’ and more on the strengths and competencies of community members. They value human differences and are committed to core principles of flexibility, equity and respect for cultural diversity in meeting the needs of different communities. They work in partnership with people, groups and organisations to achieve the goals and aspirations of their community or social groups and to prevent or reduce individual and community problems.

Community psychology developed in Australia in the 1970s with the recognition that the psychological wellbeing of individuals could not be understood in isolation from broader social contexts. The discipline has its roots in such fields as community mental health, organisational, social and more recently, environmental and health psychology. It focuses on communities as the primary unit for understanding and action.

Community psychologists work in a variety of roles in urban and rural settings, in areas such as local government, education, community health and non-government organisations.

They have completed a minimum of six years full-time university training, including postgraduate study in a recognised community psychology training program, plus further supervised practice as a community psychologist.

The APS College of Community Psychologists

Membership of the APS College of Community Psychologists is restricted to psychologists who have completed specialised training and have experience in community psychology. College members are required to undertake regular professional development activities in the area of community psychology, to maintain their skills and stay up-to-date in their field.

All practising psychologists are legally required to be registered with the Psychologists Registration Board in their state or territory. This is to ensure that they meet specified standards of competence and ethical practice. Visit the APS College of Community Psychologists website.

How can a Community Psychologist help you?

Community psychologists work with community members and policy makers to address the individual, social, political and environmental factors that contribute to psychological wellbeing within communities.

Their role is to:

• Recognise people’s strengths and resources;
• Work to break down existing social barriers;
• Emphasise empowerment and collaboration, rather than dictating ready-made solutions;
• Promote the sharing of skills and knowledge;
• Recognise that all research is value-based; and
• Use qualitative and quantitative methods of investigation.

They have the knowledge and skills to:

• Conduct community-based research;
• Assess group and community needs;
• Conduct community consultation and policy development;
• Evaluate programs;
• Coordinate projects;
• Train staff;
• Provide counselling and advocacy;
• Facilitate groups;
• Develop and conduct health promotion and education programs; and
• Manage or promote change in systems, organisations or communities.

Locating a Community Psychologist

To find a community psychologist:

• Call the APS Psychologist Referral Service on 1800 333 497 or email referral@psychology.org.au.
• Look for the APS listing under ‘psychologists’ in the Yellow Pages.
• Enquire through a government department or private agency concerned with health or social and community services.