I have an appt with a psychologist who has her PhD. I'm seeing her regarding my depression symptoms. Is she nothing more than a therapist or can she actually help me with my chemical imbalance since depression is most effectively treated with medication? Is she allowed to perscribe medication? If so, what are some common medications people take for depression?
I live in Ohio
2007-02-05 14:26:34 · 10 answers · asked by Chris R 1 in Health ➔ Mental Health
I expect Ohio is the same as other states, you need an MD to prescribe. Check your state's web site.
2007-02-05 14:30:01 · answer #1 · answered by williegod 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Can Psychologists Prescribe Medication
2016-10-02 04:00:42 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, a psychologist can not prescribe medication. This is the primary difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist, someone who can prescribe medication.
Common depression medications are Zoloft, Paxil, and Prozac. There is a wealth of information about depression and its associated symptoms and treatments on the internet. Several medication companies have websites that not only promote their drug but also provide information to the consumer.
Also, if you have a family doctor that you've been to before, someone that knows your history, that would be another good source of information. Your family doctor can also lead you in directions that don't involve medication.
2007-02-05 14:34:21 · answer #3 · answered by Wynno 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Typically psychologists have Phds meaning a doctoral degree from grad school. Psychiatrists are the ones that have to go to *medical* school and are capable of prescribing medication.
Also, make sure you HAVE a chemical imbalance before you just trust someone's word on it. Have you had your neurochemistry tested or your blood levels tested? Before you claim you have some disability or chemical imbalance, make sure someone has actually checked you for that. I have known many people who are labeled with a mental illness that is caused by neurochemical deficiencies (like bipolar for example) that have never actually been checked out.
2007-02-05 14:34:24 · answer #4 · answered by Evan 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Only a psychiatrist or Doctor can prescribe medication. however A psychologist can refer you to a psychiatrist and help you with an actual diagnosis. Both are really helpful and necessary for recovery.
2007-02-05 14:33:07 · answer #5 · answered by Steph 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No. PhD's can not prescribe meds as they are not Medical doctors.
She will counsel you and send you to a psychiatrist for prescriptions, as they are MD's.
There are many drugs out there. Your particular behaviors and symptoms will dictate what is prescribed.
2007-02-05 14:31:13 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
THE answer is no a psychologist is not a medical doctor,and cannot prescribe meds...you need to see a psychiatrist this is a medical trained for 9yrs went to med school..........kara
2007-02-05 21:34:33 · answer #7 · answered by COOKIE 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i think psychologist are not allowed to prescribe any medication. I believe only psychiatrist does. i believe if you go to others doctor and tell them that you have depression, they might give you depression medications. common medications for depression includes paxil, zoloft, and prozac.
2007-02-05 14:32:51 · answer #8 · answered by pacifica_evolution2006 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
psychiatrists are the ones who can prescribe the meds
2007-02-05 14:32:03 · answer #9 · answered by SuzyBelle04 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No but many will work with your M.D. who can or they work with a psychiatrist who is also an M.D. and they can write for your drugs.
2007-02-05 14:30:08 · answer #10 · answered by B. Perky 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋