Which Should I go to, a Psychiatrist or a Psychologist if I am having panic attacks & bouts of depression?

Question

I am a 35 year old man and I know I need to talk to one of the two. I have had emotional problems my whole life that I have never dealt with, abusive childhood, low self esteem, drug addiction and so much more. About 6 months ago though I started having these crazy panic attacks where it feels like I am having a Heart Attack and no matter what I do or say I can't make them stop. I was just hoping someone out there has the same problem and knew which would be better to go to. I am making an appointment somewhere tomorrow. Thank you

Answer 1

In a way, the answer depends on where you live and whether you need prescription medications. Psychologists CAN now prescribe medications in many states. In many cases, psychologists are quite good at working with patients who have anxiety and depression, and if finances are an issue, psychologists' fees are usually lower. In some states, however, they cannot prescribe medications, and you'd need to see a psychiatrist for meds. Check with your family doctor. He or she may be able to help you, and if not, should be able to refer you. You've already taken the first step by realizing that you need some help. Good luck to you.

Answer 2

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor and can prescribe medication. A psychologist cannot prescribe medication.

Any medical doctor, including a general practitioner (family doctor), can prescribe the medication, but the psychiatrist specializes in mental health, so it is probably best to eventually go to a psychiatrist, even if you see a GP first. Perhaps the GP can refer a good psychiatrist.

Psychiatrists, nowadays, do not often practice talk therapy. This is where the psychologist comes in. However, there are other types of mental health therapists. For example, there are clinical social workers. CSWs often receive a masters degree in a mental health field such as psychology. A masters is given after two years of training, after having gone through the four-years of undergraduate coursework. CSWs are licensed by the state.

Psychologists have the two year for the masters but also go another two years for a doctorate degree. So, contrary to what a fellow wrote here, a psychologist isn't just some kid going to school for just four years. In total, it is at least eight years, though of course, the first four are not all for psychology.

Psychologists often do not go into the field of therapy, but often go into research. On the other hand, almost all CSWs go into therapy and thus, the curriculum and training is geared to that. So, even though they have a six-year degree, they are often just as effective as their eight-year counterparts.

So, you do not necessarily need to go see a psychologist. A CSW may be fine.

It is difficult to say which you should see first. If I had to pick one, I'd say a psychiatrist. But, if you pick a therapist first, it is better than not seeing anyone.

Either way, assuming that a psychiatrist isn't a therapist, you will need to see a therapist. The difference between the two is like seeing someone if you've had some trauma to your legs which prevented you from walking well. You'd see a medical doctor to help deal with the pain and repair the damage (surgery, perhaps) but afterward you still can't walk well. Then you'd see the physical therapist to help you actually walk again. You'd be getting the medication from the doctor but you'd be doing the exercise with the therapist. After walking again, you may find you don't need the medicine, but you may still need the therapist.

That may occur, or it may not, with your particular problem, but you should get help either way.

Also, be discriminate with who you choose as a therapist. Ask them questions like their experience with persons like you, what type of therapy they practice, trust you instincts if you don't like the person. I've included a link to help you in choosing a therapist. Of course, if you are in terrible shape, you can take the therapist available to you and change one later on.

The other link details what the different types of therapists are.

Answer 3

I am not sure where you live but here in Australia a psychiatrist can prescribe medication but a psychologist cannot, you could try the psychologist first as they will give you strategies to manage panic attacks and spend time with you working through your life and help you deal with the past so that you can move on. A psychiatrist will do the same but in conjuction with medication. Do you want to try to do it drug free? but at the end of the day you may not have a choice if the panic attacks and depression are severe, If you go to a psychiatrist make sure he/she doesn't just fob you off with medication, but is also willing to spend the time with you giving you practical help as well. Some people see both,

Answer 4

Definitely a psychiatrist. From what it sounds like, you need to be on medication in addition to receiving therapy. A psychiatrist can prescribe you medication (a psychologist can't). He/she can also handle your therapy needs and is not just for prescribing meds. Some people will tell you that psychiatrists are not good at therapy and are just "pill pushers." This is simply not true. A psychiatrist has gone through all of the training that a psychologist has, but also has the medical degree and the pharmaceutical expertise (and license) to prescribe meds. But that doesn't mean that that's all they are good for. They diagnose you, prescribe you medication as need be, and deal with your therapy needs. They have done residency at psychiatric hospitals and usually have a tremendous amount more knowledge in this field than do psychologits. All you need to become a psychologist (education wise) is a Bachelor's Degree. A psychiatrist, on the other hand, is a full-fledged doctor. I'm not trying to come down hard on psychologists and I know that they too save lives....I'm just giving you my opinion based on your question and what it sounds like YOU need. Talk therapy will take years before you start seeing results, but medication is what you'll need initially to feel better and start the ball rolling with the rest of psychiatric needs. I wish you a smooth road to recovery with all your issues. It's tough, but they can be overcome. Good luck!!

Answer 5

Psychiatrists usually know better about those type of problems and they can give you the right pills for it. Psychologists usually makes you feel better by talking to you and letting you talk to them, but if they think you need a professional, they will refer you to a psychiatrist. If the first psychiatrist doesn't work out, get another one. I went to so many of them previously, and I just found one that can actually help me.

Answer 6

I was about 40years ...and through too much work I had similar panic attacks & sort out a Psychiatrist who in time help solve my problems. One thing I have learnt , you cant do things at 100% all the time....back off & live to 80, as I am now :)
Good Luck

Answer 7

well your first step should be to have an assessment with a psychiatrist for possible medication therapy. then there should be a follow up with a therapist/counselor, because, while medication may help, if you do not deal with the root of the problem, it will never really be resolved. if there is a mental health facility near you, call them and make the initial appointment as soon as possible, if there are any suicidal thoughts, go directly to a hospital for assessment.

Answer 8

I second going first to your regular doctor, if you have one. They will refer you to someone locally who can get you help.

If you don't have a regular doctor, I would suggest going to the health center connected with your health insurance.

Failing that, many communities have a local mental health center. I would let a professional make the ultimate judgment on psychologist vs. psychiatrist based on talking to you.

Answer 9

Hi,
There is this guide by anxiety expert Joe Barry , he has taught thousands of people to be panic free without any medication using a revolutionary new technique, http://www.panicaway.co.nr , its really a great guide , it should help you get rid of panic attacks forever in a few days

Hope this helps you and wish you the best of health

Answer 10

uhm, normally people go to a clinical psychologist first, just to talk about things, symptoms etc... then normally if it's necessary they'll referral you to a psychiatrist (able to perscribe you medicine). People with extreme disorders and feelings often see both.