ALT-1 The Difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist
Thedifference between a psychologist and a psychiatristlays in training and qualifications. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor. This means that he is able to write prescriptions for psychiatric medications. A psychologist is not a medical doctor, but is trained in psychology. This qualifies him to administer counseling and psychotherapy.
A psychiatrist attends medical school for four years. After medical school, he works at an internship for a year. After the internship, he attends at least three years of specialized training as a psychiatric resident.
A psychologist graduates from graduate school with a degree in psychology. After graduate school, a psychologist completes an internship of at least two years. This internship provides further training in treatment methods, psychological theory, and behavioral therapy.
Psychiatrists and psychologists often work in tangent with each other, which is why it becomes confusing. Psychologists often perform therapy and work as counselors in clinics or privately. Psychiatrists work with psychologists on the same case loads. This means that a patient seeing a certain therapist will see a certain doctor. Psychiatrists can administer counseling and therapy, but in a clinical setting they are often solely seen to prescribe medication.
When seeing a psychiatrist, the psychiatrist will ask about significant factors which are impacting your life. The conversation will only tread lightly on this topic, and any major issues will be directed to the psychologist for further discussion. He will also ask about current symptoms and any side effects (if medication is currently being used). A psychiatrist will ask if there are any questions for him about the medication or any concerns. A psychiatrist is qualified to perform a psychiatric evaluation.
When seeing a psychologist, the psychologist will also ask about significant factors impacting your life and will discuss them in detail. He will get into detail about your feelings surrounding those factors and help to analyze your feelings. It is a psychologist's job to help a person to better understand himself and how he relates to others. Any questions or concerns about medication will be directed to the psychiatrist.
Both being mental health professionals, and both having similar roles, the difference often becomes confusing. Many people confuse the two. The important distinction to remember is that psychiatrists prescribe medication and psychologists do not. Psychologists are limited to counseling and psychotherapy, while many psychiatrists practice as a medical doctor: seeing patients, inquiring about symptoms, addressing side effects, and prescribing medications as needed.
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