Psychiatrist or psychologist?

Question

Which would you be most likely to consult?

Answer 1

It would depend on the nature of the problem. If the cause was external (eg depression after divorce, anxiety following an accident, blah blah) I would first consult with a therapist (Masters level Counseling Psychology) or a psychologist (a PhD in psychology). However, if the problem seems to have come up internally or for any reason seems biologically based (perhaps a family history of mental illness) I would see a psychiatrist. Truthfully, it does not matter too much who you see first. Any responsible practitioner will refer you to the other if he/she believes another specialty can provide you will the best care, based on your specific needs. In fact, many people see both a therapist and a psychiatrist, who, in a best case scenario work together as a team.

Some problems simply need medication (making a psychiatrist necessary), others need talk therapy that most psychiatrists no longer provide (the image of Freud is very outdated). They mostly diagnose, prescribe, and do follow up med checks. And as I wrote above, many will also give a recommendation to a therapist that he/she has worked with before and trusts.

Answer 2

AHHHH, a good question. Most that have consulted both know the typical response. Psychiatrist can offer drugs. Psychologist can offer self help advice. My question to the asker. Is this a trick research question? I guess. What one has to ask yourself if seeking help from either. Is the issue that a person has worthy for drugs or just suggestions? Is the persons Issue deep enough to become a pill popper, or are they just seeking guidance on fixing a problem in thier life? WOW, YOU DID POST A TOUGH QUESTION. Props to you for asking it tho. I am very sure not many know how to answer this one because they are not aware of the difference between the two professions. I am very afraid tho that in America, its always take a pill and fix it. No way, am I cracking Psychiatrist either. I am cracking the pill poppers and the enablers of all medical fields who created the enablers. If you personally are asking which way you should go? Start small with a good psychologist, and if its something you can't work with the psychologist they will direct you to the psychiatrist if they are a true professional.

Answer 3

It depends on why you are consulting them. Since psychiatrists go to medical school and are able to write prescriptions they sometimes take a more organic view of psychological problems and treat the symptoms with medication. Psychologists do not have a medical background and are more interested in uncovering the underlying cause of symptoms and treating them with therapy.

Here's what Wikipedia has to say:

In the U.S., both licensed psychiatrists and clinical psychologists hold a doctorate in their field. Psychiatrists are physicians who have earned an M.D. or a D.O., whereas psychologists have earned a Ph.D., Psy.D., or Ed.D. Psychiatrists generally spend shorter periods of contact time with clients/patients, and the principle method of treatment is psychopharmacology. Conversely, clinical psychologists generally rely upon psychological assessment and the use of psychotherapy to relieve psychological distress. It is not uncommon for people suffering from mental illness to combine these services to maximize their impact.

Answer 4

I would see a psychiatrist. I used to work as a psych RN. Psychiatrists are trained in psychology and are also medical doctors. In total, they know much more than psychologists and are abe to prescribe medication.

Despite what one person said, my insurance does cover being seen by a Ph.D psychologist. Unfortunately the four I saw were worthless. I am grateful to have a wonderful psychiatrist.

Answer 5

A psychiatrist is an MD and can write prescriptions. A psychologist can't.

Answer 6

do you have insurance?
do you need medications?

Insurance may not pay for a psychologist and only psychiatrists can prescribe
if you have no insurance, psychiatrists can charge 250/hr and psychologists can charge up to about 150/hr
if you need one, and cannot afford one, then you may want to access your local health department
good luck

Answer 7

if you want medication, you'd probably go to a psychiatrist (unless you live in NM or LA - psychologists in those states are also able to prescribe medications)

if you're interested in talk therapy, you'd probably go to a psychologist, social worker, or masters-level psychotherapist

Answer 8

psychologist? In a heart beat


talking helps alot

Answer 9

Some states now allow psychologists to perscribe medications.......
Psychologists do testing and talk therapy.....Psychiatrists counsel and perscribe medications....

Answer 10

depending on your problem my boyfreind was dealing with depression went to a psychiatrist gave him to many meds made him worse they dont help solve the problem just cover it up now he is going to a phychologist and he is healing from the inside i trust psychologist more ive used them and they help you to heal