Psychologists and Psychiatrists, Know the Difference
Psychologists and psychiatrists are both trained in the same practice of mental health care, yet they offer different treatments based on a person’s condition. When seeking someone to counsel for your own mental illness, you must first consider whether it is better suited towards one or another. Psychiatrists may more readily prescribe medication, whereas psychologists rely more heavily on therapy sessions – such as counseling to treat problems like anxiety disorders and depression. How much experience each doctor has with certain illnesses also decides which practitioner would be most suitable depending upon an individual concern. These differences should factor into who you approach when looking for help treating your respective conditions because there truly is no right or wrong answer that fits everyone.
A psychiatrist studies to get a medical degree in the field of mental health, either by earning an MD ( Doctor of Medicine ) or DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine). A psychologist has to complete four or six years of graduate studies in medicine, then take an exam and gain license through a state that they want to practice professionally. Psychologists aren’t allowed to prescribe medications; instead, they recommend talk therapies and exercises that are best for mental conditions. They work with patients through careful observation and counselling sessions in order to make a diagnosis. While psychologists can be found practicing alongside psychiatrists in hospitals or clinic, their preferred method is setting up a private practice, as the majority of those suffering from severe symptoms will likely need long-term medication care by medical doctors anyway – not just therapy treatment, which requires less time spent at an appointment.
It is very important to consider the kind of mental health issues you are facing before approaching a psychiatrist or psychologist. Psychiatrists are the best doctors to see when mental health is at its worst. Symptoms such as extreme mood swings or changes in behavior can result from a severe case of mental illness, and it’s important for a person suffering these symptoms to seek help immediately before their condition worsens further. A psychiatrist will be able diagnose what needs treating while also ensuring that medications are given correctly.
A psychiatrist and psychologist can work together to diagnose a mental illness. This is useful because the two professions have different but complementary specialties which allow for better treatment of patients with complex symptoms. To ensure you have a plan for your mental health, make sure to get medical insurance that covers the medications and therapies recommended by psychiatrists. Psychologists typically split their fees into monthly or per visit payments.
When it comes to finding a doctor, make sure you are prepared and know what kind of questions to ask. Before your first visit with the psychiatrist or psychologist, have a list ready so that you can feel comfortable asking them any question on your mind. Many mental health professionals suggest that it is beneficial to see both a psychiatrist and psychologist in order for treatment results. When psychologists examine an individual’s thoughts, feelings, behavior patterns etc., they are able to identify the underlying emotional issues which could be causing stress or other symptoms. Psychiatrists on the other hand help manage any psychiatric illness such as bipolar disorder or depression with medication if needed alongside therapy sessions from either therapist type.
Thankfully, here at Empire Psychiatry , we have the experiences to provide relief for your needs. We have created a system with the goal of providing peace of mind for our patients. We have come up with this mission after working closely and understanding the needs of thousands upon thousands to provide better service than anyone else in our industry! For more information on Empire Psychiatry, send us an email, or contact us today.
