What Is the Difference? Which One Is Right for You?
When you’re experiencing emotional or mental health challenges, there are a number of professionals who offer some form of treatment, including therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. What’s the difference between these different mental healthcare providers? When should you see one or the other?
What Is a Therapist?
The term “therapist” is a bit of a catchall, typically covering licensed professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, and clinical social workers. Though mental health therapists are licensed and regulated on a state-by-state basis, they typically have a master’s degree and must comply with the requirements of state licensing boards. A medical degree is not required to become a therapist. Accordingly, therapists do not have the legal authority to prescribe or order medication.
What Is a Psychologist?
Psychologists diagnose and treat mental disorders, behavioral problems, and learning disabilities. They may work on issues such as substance abuse, stress management, emotional response to illness, and challenges with interpersonal relationships, including partners, spouses, or family members. A psychologist is not a licensed medical doctor and will typically not have any medical school training. Generally, though, a psychologist will have both a master’s degree and a doctoral degree, and, in most states, must complete an internship. A psychologist may not prescribe medication for the treatment of an emotional or mental condition.
What Is a Psychiatrist?
Psychiatrists focus their training and practice on many of the same issues as psychologists but are medical doctors and must complete medical school, as well as a residency in psychiatry. Most will also participate in a fellowship in a sub-specialty. As medical doctors, psychiatrists can diagnose mental disorders, including chemical imbalances in the brain, and may prescribe pharmaceutical products to treat mental health conditions. A psychiatrist may also offer mental or emotional counseling but often refers patients to a psychologist or therapist for such treatment.
Which Mental Health Professional Is Right for You?
Knowing which professional to see can be confusing. Here are some tips:
- In many instances, finding a therapist should be your first step. Emotional or mental issues relating to eating disorders, low self-esteem, and relationship problems are commonly treated by therapists. If you are feeling self-destructive, suicidal, or having aggressive or violent thoughts related to others, you should bypass this step and immediately seek treatment from a psychiatrist.
- If you need to talk about certain issues at length–e.g., to process trauma or manage other more serious mental or emotional issues—you may want to consider working with a psychologist.
- If you believe you need medication to bring stability to your life, you’ll need to go to a psychiatrist. Furthermore, if you have serious emotional and mental challenges affecting or controlling your daily life, you are best served by seeking the services of a psychiatrist.
Contact InjuredCare to Connect with an Experienced Mental Health Professional
To get connected with the right mental health professional, contact us online or call our offices today at 866-952-7045.
