Psychologist Vs Psychiatrist: How Do I Decide It?

By Ishika S.

14th August, 2023

Psychologists and psychiatrists are both trained in the same practice of mental health care, yet the treatments they offer are very different.

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“Here’s the difference between psychologist and psychiatrist”

A psychologist studies a graduate program in medicine for a period of four or six years to attain a PhD (doctor of philosophy) or PsyD (doctor of psychology) degree.

Who Is A Psychologist?

Who Is A Psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist studies to get a medical degree in the field of mental health either to attain an MD (doctor of medicine) or DO (doctor of osteopathic medicine).

– Psychologists are not authorised to prescribe medications. They can only recommend talk therapies and exercises for mild mental conditions. – Psychiatrists are required to continue the practice for a minimum of four years in a hospital under supervision from senior doctors.

Psychologist Vs Psychiatrist?

Whom To Consult?

Before you approach a psychiatrist or a psychologist, you must first consider the kind of mental health issues you are facing. – For stress, anxiety and depression you might consult a psychologist. – For extremely severe cases of mental illness which require medication, you might consult a psychiatrist.

Both psychologists and psychiatrists are equally capable in their field to work with mental illness. Visit the one who suits your requirement.