Who gives the official diagnosis for a mental disorder? Is it a Psychiatrist or a Psychotherapist?

Question

I'm in college and kind of broke, so I can't waste money going to the wrong kind of doctor. After studying the symptoms over the last few years, I'm 99% sure I have a debilitating case Social Anxiety and want an official diagnosis down on paper. Which kind of doctor gives that official diagnosis?

Answer 1

Both make the diagnosis, although may not agree.
In my experience, psychologists are more accurate about it. Psychiatrists don't have the same level of training in the diagnosis of mental illness. I've worked with some psychiatrists that just make up disorders that do not exist in the DSM-IV TR or another diagnostic manual.

Answer 2

"Psychotherapist" is simply a generic term to describe anyone engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders. A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor first, then specializes in mental illness. A Psychologist typically has a Ph.D. and NOT a medical degree. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker usually has a Master's in social work + additional internship time to obtain licensure. All of these individuals may diagnose and/or treat mental illness, including social anxiety disorder. If you want a MEDICAL DOCTOR, you will need to consult a psychiatrist.

Answer 3

Psychiatrist, although some regular doctors can prescribe psychotropic, mood stabalizers, and anxiety medications, so I assume they are able to make that diagnosis, just call your local clinic and see if there is a DR that can help you.

Answer 4

I believe either can diagnose, but only a Psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe any medications. Psychotherapists are only people to talk to.

Answer 5

psychiatrist (medical doctor specialising in psychology). Many psychotherapists are also psychiatrists. Psychotherapy is the type of therapy method used.

Answer 6

I think it is better to compare a psychiatrist with a clinical psychologist.

A clinical psychologist has a graduate degree is psychology and would thus provide better counseling (assuming you find one who is competent and compassionate).

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) whose purpose is to prescribe drugs. I continue to question the legitimacy of psychiatry.

Answer 7

A psychiatrist is an actual M.D. PhD. and can make the appropriate diagnosis.

Answer 8

many human beings many times see their kinfolk practitioner for psychological wellness themes. regrettably, many FP's don't have an identical point of expertise and archives as a psychiatrist. i desire to propose you talk to a psychiatrist with a view to get the superb diagnostic "call" on your situation. generally, the quantity of time it takes relies upon on how obtrusive your indicators are and how impending you're with the psychiatrist.

Answer 9

Psychiatrist!!!!!
He is the one would diagnoses the mental disorder and gives us medicines......
Psychotherapists dont give medicine they do counselling