Which is the best mental health doctor to speak to. I know psychiatrists perscribe medication and the other two do not. A freind of mine goes to a psychotherapist and I attended a session. It was similar to a psychologist. Another friend goes to a psychologist? So which is better to help with life problems?
2006-10-02 08:40:19 · 11 answers · asked by LONG ISLAND GIRL 3 in Health ➔ Mental Health
Please don't answer the question relating therapy to social workers as they are not therapists.
2006-10-02 08:51:57 · update #1
This is an impossible question. The "real" difference is in the degree that the doctor/therapist possesses. A psychiatrist is an MD or DO and can prescribe medications. Medications without counselling are a waste, though, so a good psyschiatrist will offer counselling or work closely with another therapist. A psychiatrist is generally a Ph.D. and a psychotherapist is generally an M.S.W. or a nurse with any number of various degrees. Either one would have specialty training in psychiatric counselling.
Some argue that the non-MD's are better, because they are forced to get to the root of the problem by virtue of the fact that they can NOT prescribe medications. Just a thought.
2006-10-02 08:44:47 · answer #1 · answered by Picture Taker 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
A psychologist is a person who has studied psychology. They can be in many areas, such as research, teaching, writing, and typically have a bachelors, masters, or a doctorate. A psychotherapist, is someone who gives counseling. There again are many types, as there are many theories of how we think, and the methods of counseling. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor. They specifically understand chemical imbalances. They can prescribe and monitor medication. The biggest difference is that a psychotherapist will help you understand and help you think more healthy. A psychiatrist will give you medication if you have a chemical imbalance. A psychologist is just a general name for anyone who has studied psychology.
2016-03-27 02:21:11 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
A psychiatrist is an MD and can Rx. A psychotherapist can be either who has been analyzed himself. A clinical psychologist is usually a PhD. If you need medication, the choice is obvious. If you just need talk and support, either will do. The important thing is your empathy with the person.
2006-10-02 08:45:05 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've been wondering this same thing for years. I went to a psychotherapist about 8 years ago. It was just like a session with a psychiatrist. I'm not sure of the difference,
2006-10-02 08:43:09 · answer #4 · answered by Carrie! 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Psychologist is the general name for any person who practices the study of the mind. They could talk to clients, or be research psychologists, or professors of phychology. Psychotherapists and psychiatrists are two different groups of practicing psychologists. (But I honestly couldn't tell you the difference)
2006-10-02 08:44:23 · answer #5 · answered by DonSoze 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
It really depends on your individual needs. If you just need someone to listen and guide you, try either a psychologist or a CSW (Certified Social Worker) they also function as therapists. If you feel you need medication go to the Psychiatrist - they're medical doctors who can prescribe.
2006-10-02 08:48:38 · answer #6 · answered by zippythejessi 7 · 1⤊ 2⤋
Psychiatrist: medical doctor
Psychologist: Ph.D.
Psychotherapist: someone certified to conduct therapy, but they usually just have a master's degree.
2006-10-02 08:42:57 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
A psychologist is what you might prefer and need.
2006-10-02 08:42:18 · answer #8 · answered by Deeplife 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Who cares? Everything is a business now a days! The best advise is given by your friends and family. Don't waste your money!
2006-10-02 08:46:08 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 4⤋
i think where you need to be is in the psychiatric ward of your nearest hospital!
2006-10-02 08:43:23 · answer #10 · answered by mcimpotent 3 · 0⤊ 3⤋