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

Answer 1

The simplest way to describe the difference between them is that a psychologist primarily aids the depressed patient by counseling and psychotherapy. A psychiatrist may also perform psychotherapy; but, in addition, can prescribe medications and perform ECT (electroconvulsive therapy). A psychiatrist is a medical doctor. A psychologist may hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) and be called "doctor"; but, is not a medical doctor (M.D.).

Answer 2

A psychiatrist has gone to medical school and can prescribe medication. A psychologist has completed a PhD in psychology and cannot prescribe medication in most states (there are 2 states - Louisiana and New Mexico - where some psychologists are able to prescribe medications because there are so few psychiatrists).

A psychiatrist can provide therapy but most psychiatrists today are seen mainly for medication consultations. Many clinical psychologists provide psychotherapy services. However, a large number of psychologists are privately employed by either research groups or universities where they perform research on things such as eyewitness testimony, group decision making processes, anxiety disorders, etc. Most psychologists employed by universities both perform research and teach.

Answer 3

Other than the obvious I don't really know. A psychiatrist is a Medical Doctor specializing in Psyhiatry. He/she can and does prescribe medicine.

A psychologist get a PhD or similar advanced degree and can not normally prescribe medicine.

The whole field is very confusing. We have Psychiatrist, Pyshcologist and Counselors calling themselves Psyhcotherapist what ever that is. And then we have the field of Social Work which I understand most PPCs have nothing but disdain.

None of them make any sense to me. Sometimes I think I am more sane than those guys are. The field seems to be totally without regulation.

Answer 4

A psychiatrist must complete medical school so they can prescribe medications. A psychologist usually just gives counseling. What usually hapens is a client will first visit the psychiatrist and be diagnosed with whatever disorder (if any) they have, and receive a prescription for medication. Then he or she will decide how often they need to see whatever psychologist they need. Ex. one that specializes in depression, eating disorders, bipolar, conduct disorder, ect.

Answer 5

A psychologist listens and advises. A psychiatrist does the same, but is also able to prescribe medication.

Answer 6

A psychologist cannot prescribe medication a psychiatrist can.

Answer 7

A psychologist studies the behavior and thinking of individuals, and mental illness. A clinical psychologist can administer diagnostic tests and prescribed psychiatric meds. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has specialized in treating mental illness. After completing medical training, he has done a psychiatric residency in a hospital.

Answer 8

Psychologists don't prescribe medications. Psychiatrists do.

Answer 9

I know that a psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication ( write scripts) and a psychologist cannot.

Answer 10

Psychologist gives counseling, while Psychiatrist prescribes medication.