What's the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

Answer 1

Psychologists have a PhD or Psy.D (*not* only a master's contrary to an answer above...they can't call themselves psychologists). They have spent at least 4-6 on average working on their dissertation, and learning about the theories and techniques of psychotherapy and various mental illnesses. Then they seek an internship in different settings. They train much more intensely on psychological theories. They cannot prescribe medicine.

Psychiatrists on the other hand, have spent 4 years in medical school. After wards, they seek out out a specialty in psychiatry. They are very knowledgeable with medication and can prescribe medication. They tend to have less training in psychotherapy. They treat mental illness very much like a physical illness. Our abnormal psychology professor told us that there was a manual that they often use: "If x drug does not work, try x drug. If that does not work , try x drug etc. etc." They tend to work with more seriously ill patients, such as those with schizophrenia.

Psychiatrists are more expensive, and if you are not struggling with an biologically based illness, I would suggest consulting with a psychologist first. Your family doctor can prescribe medication with your psychologist's help, so don't worry about prescriptions if that is a concern.

Psychologists are not "cheap" psychiatrists. There are pros and cons to both. You can make your own decision based on these facts.

Answer 2

A psychologist needs a phd too. As a psychologist, you are TRAINED in techniques to promote behavioural change and improved mental health. They do do therapy, but UNLIKE a counselor, they are are highly trained in proper methodology.

A psychiatrist is an M.D.. As a psychiatrist you will do *very little* counseling. You will be involved in medicating, adjusting dosages, etc.

Different mental and social conditions need different treatment, often involving both a psychiatrist and psychologist's help.

Hope this helps.

Answer 3

A psychologist uses therapy as a mean of treatment. Psychiatrist on the other hand uses that along with medications to treat a miryad of conditions.

Answer 4

A Psychologist will talk with you about your problems but will not give you medication.

while a Psychiatrist will listen to you and write a prescription for medication.

Answer 5

A Psychologist has studied Psychology and deals with problems through counseling.

A Psychiatrist has attended Medical School and then studied Psychology. They may prescribe medication to deal with certain disorders while a Psychologist may not.

Answer 6

Psychologist is just a therpest a psychiatrist can prescribe meds

Answer 7

A psychiatrist is actually a doctor, just like your family doctor he can write prescriptions, and deal with the medical side of problems as well as the mental. A psychologist can only give you therapy, listen, talk give advice.

Answer 8

Easy! Psychologist just talks. Psychiatrist can also prescribe.

Answer 9

Anyone can be a psychologist. But a psychiatrist needs a college degree.

Answer 10

A Psychiatrist can subscribe medication and a psychologist cannot