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.
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.
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.
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.