whats the difference between Psychiatry and Psychology?

Question

In canada,does Psychiatry require less schooling then Psychology?

what are some examples that tells the difference between Psychiatry and Psychology?

also,which one would be more better?

Answer 1

I believe the requirements for the US and Canada are the same.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor, holds a medical degree (MD or DO), and prescribes medication. His/her training is on the medical/ biological/ neurological bases of mental illness. While some may do therapy, they are not usually trained in psychotherapy.
A psychologist has a PhD or PsyD and specializes in therapy, psychological assessment, and consultation (amongst other things). To hold the title of psychologist, they are required to have a doctorate. They are trained in psychological theory and the behavioral, cognitive, social, dynamic (etc) causes of mental illness. In most states, they cannot prescribe medication. However, in some states (like New Mexico and Louisiana, I believe), psychologists can prescribe medication with additional training.
What is better depends on what most interests you. If you enjoy spending more time with people, talking, helping people, listening, and thinking, then go with psychology. If you enjoy helping people, but don't want to spend as much time with people, then go for psychiatry.

Answer 2

In theory, Psychiatry is treatment and Psychology is study of human behavior. In the US and presumably in Canada, Psychiatry requires MORE schooling because a Psychiatrist is a doctor and can prescribe medicines. Psychology is a major at the BS, MS, and PhD level and a Psychologist may have additional training that allows treatment, testing, counseling, teaching, etc., as well as research.

Answer 3

Psychiatrists are M.D.s, and typically write prescriptions (rarely do they provide psychotherapy, but some still do this).

Psychologists are Ph.D.s and Psy.D.s (a few are Ed.D.s). They typically conduct psychotherapy. Although most are not prescription providers, in 2 states (and legislation is pending in many other states), psychologists with the proper prerequisite training are now legal prescription providers, as well.

As for which profession is "better", it depends on what you're looking for. If you are in need of a prescription, a psychiatrist if your best bet. If you are in need of high quality psychotherapy, a psychologist is the way to go.

~M~

Answer 4

Psychiatrists have medical degrees. Psychologists have doctorates.

Answer 5

a psychiatrist can write prescriptions. a psychologist can't and in the us, psychologists take less schooling. psychologists mentor more and counsel; psychiatrists just diagnose mental disorders and write prescriptions.