Finding mental health support can feel confusing before you even schedule an appointment. You may know that you need help, but not whether you should contact a psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist or another type of provider.
The difference between a psychiatrist vs. psychologist largely comes down to medical training, prescribing authority and the type of care each professional typically provides. Both can play an important role in mental health treatment, and many patients benefit from working with both.
Not sure where to begin? Contact Resiliency Mind + Body Medicine to discuss your symptoms and possible next steps.
The Quick Facts
- A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health.
- A psychologist typically holds a doctoral degree in psychology.
- Psychiatrists can prescribe medication and provide medical treatments.
- Psychologists commonly provide psychotherapy and psychological testing.
- Many patients work with both professionals as part of one treatment plan.
What Is a Psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a physician who has completed medical school and specialized residency training in psychiatry. Psychiatrists are trained to evaluate the mental and physical aspects of psychological symptoms, make diagnoses and develop treatment plans.
Because they are medical doctors, psychiatrists can prescribe and manage medications. They may also order laboratory tests or consider physical conditions that could contribute to psychiatric symptoms.
For example, symptoms such as fatigue, poor concentration or changes in mood can sometimes be affected by medical conditions, medications or substance use. A psychiatrist can consider those possibilities as part of a broader evaluation.
Psychiatrists may use several forms of treatment, including:
- Psychiatric medication
- Psychotherapy
- Lifestyle and behavioral recommendations
The American Psychiatric Association explains that psychiatrists are qualified to evaluate both the mental and physical components of psychological concerns.
What Is a Psychologist?
A psychologist is a mental health professional who typically holds a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D. or Psy.D., and has completed supervised clinical training.
Psychologists often specialize in psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy. They help patients understand emotions, behaviors and thought patterns while developing strategies for managing mental health symptoms and difficult life experiences.
Some psychologists also provide specialized assessments related to:
- Attention and learning
- Memory and cognitive functioning
- Personality
- Autism or developmental concerns
- Diagnostic clarification
Psychologists use evidence-based therapies and techniques to help people manage mental health conditions, chronic illness, stress and major life changes.
Can Psychologists Prescribe Medication?
In California, psychologists cannot prescribe medication. Medication must be prescribed by a physician or another qualified medical professional with prescribing authority.
That does not mean psychologists are uninvolved in medication-based care. A psychologist may work closely with a psychiatrist, primary care physician or psychiatric nurse practitioner. With the patient’s permission, providers can share relevant information and coordinate treatment.
This collaboration may help the prescribing provider understand how symptoms are changing between medication appointments.
When Should You Consider Seeing a Psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist may be a useful starting point when symptoms appear to require medical evaluation or medication may be part of treatment.
You might consider psychiatric care if:
- Depression or anxiety is disrupting daily life
- You are interested in starting or adjusting medication
- Previous medications have not worked well enough
- Side effects are making treatment difficult
- Your symptoms are severe, persistent or rapidly changing
- You have symptoms of bipolar disorder, psychosis or another complex condition
- You want to discuss TMS, Spravato or another interventional treatment
A psychiatrist can review your diagnosis, medical history, medications and previous treatments before recommending a plan.
When Might a Psychologist Be the Right Choice?
A psychologist may be a good starting point when you primarily want regular therapy or a detailed psychological assessment.
People often seek therapy to address:
- Anxiety or depression
- Grief and loss
- Trauma
- Relationship concerns
- Stress and burnout
- Unhelpful thought or behavior patterns
- Major life transitions
Psychotherapy may be used by itself or alongside medication. The right approach depends on the condition, symptom severity and the patient’s goals.
Do You Have to Choose Only One?
No. Seeing a psychiatrist does not mean you cannot work with a psychologist, and seeing a psychologist doesn’t prevent you from pursuing medication.
For many patients, the two forms of care complement each other. A psychiatrist may oversee medication and medical treatment, while a psychologist provides more frequent psychotherapy.
Your providers may work in the same practice or at separate organizations. What matters is that each person understands their role and, when appropriate, communicates with the rest of your care team.
How Do You Decide Where to Start?
Think about what you need most right now.
When you want medication evaluation, medical oversight or access to treatments such as Deep TMS or Spravato therapy, a psychiatrist is likely the appropriate place to begin.
When your main goal is ongoing talk therapy, coping skills or psychological testing, a psychologist may be a better first step.
You don’t need to determine the entire treatment plan on your own. A qualified provider can assess your concerns and refer you to another professional when additional support would be helpful.
Ready to discuss your mental health treatment options? Contact Resiliency Mind + Body Medicine to request a psychiatric evaluation.