Psychiatrist? Therapist? Psychologist? Who Should You See?

There are many mental health professionals that can help navigate mental health struggles, from psychiatrists to psychologists to therapists, it can be easy to confuse the three and what they do. Psychiatrists are doctors who go through medical school to obtain an MD/DO/MBBS degree and specialize in psychiatry (Watson, 2019). They are able to diagnose mental illnesses, prescribe medications and may provide some counselling while primarily working in hospitals (Trillium Counselling, 2019).

Next, psychologists are mental health professionals who obtain a PsyD which is a doctoral degree; they are able to diagnose and help treat mental disorders or behavioral problems through therapy (Mukherjee, 2019). Psychologists may also focus on research behind the disease processes. They may use psychotherapy to help navigate and treat patients (Mukherjee, 2019). Unlike psychiatrists, they are unable to prescribe medications.

Lastly, therapists are professionals who use a variety of therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy to treat a diagnosis (Mukherjee, 2019). They usually obtain a Masters degree but they cannot make a diagnosis, unless under the supervision of a psychologist or psychiatrist. They also do not prescribe medications either (Trillium Counselling, 2019).

Although all three have a lot of similarities, it is important to choose the right professional to address mental wellbeing. Therapists are typically professionals that are able to maintain a longer term relationship and they can help navigate issues like anxiety and depression. Therapists may also conduct group therapy and couples therapy (Watson, 2019). On the other hand, psychiatrists are professionals that usually require a referral from a family doctor. They mainly diagnose a mental illness or disorder and prescribe medications necessary. Unlike therapists, they typically have shorter sessions with their patients. Psychologists can help diagnose the disorder and then treat it through psychotherapy or other therapies aside from medications (Watson, 2019). Both psychologists and therapists can be accessed without a referral and are usually found in clinics.

Mental wellbeing is an essential part of health and these professionals can help navigate mental health struggles. There is no one size fits all when it comes to mental health and it may take a few attempts to find the right professional for you but it is essential to not be discouraged by the process.

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References

Mukherjee, C. (2019). Key differences between psychologists and therapists. TheMindFool - Perfect medium for self-development & mental health. Explorer of lifestyle choices & seeker of the spiritual journey. https://themindfool.com/psychologists-vs-therapists-the-key-differences/.

Trillium Counselling. (2019). Psychotherapist and psychologist and psychiatrist oh my! - Trillium Counselling. Trillium Counselling. https://www.trilliumcounselling.ca/2019-11-10-psychotherapist-and-psychologist-and-psychiatrist-oh-my.

Watson, S. (2019). Psychiatrist: What they are, vs. psychologist, and more. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/what-is-the-difference-between-a-psychologist-and-a-psychiatrist.