Psychologist vs Psychiatrist – Which Mental Health Professional Should I See?

You are not alone if you are confused about what a Psychologist vs what a Psychiatrist does, these are commonly mixed up. This blog aims to distinguish between the two practices so you are able to make a more informed decision about your mental health care.

PSYCHOLOGIST

What training have Psychologists done?

Bachelors, Masters or Doctorate degree, 6-8 years of study/training.

What do Psychologists do?

Psychologists are trained mental health professionals, who specialise in human behaviour, cognition and emotions. Their focus is providing talk therapy as an intervention for various mental health conditions, interpersonal struggles, adjustment issues and more.

PSYCHIATRIST

What training have Psychiatrists done?

Doctorate Degree (Medical), GP experience plus Psychiatry degree, 11+ years of study/training.

What do Psychiatrists do?

Psychiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health disorders. They have a stronger focus on the biological determinants of mental illness and provide treatment with medication, brain stimulation therapies such as electroconvulsive therapy and talk therapy.

What are the main differences between Psychologists and Psychiatrists?

The main difference is that Psychiatrists are medically trained and can prescribed medication, while Psychologists do not have medical training and cannot prescribe medication. Psychiatrists tend to treat more complex and severe presentations such as Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder.

What are the main similarities between Psychologists and Psychiatrists?

Both Psychologists and Psychiatrists are trained to recognise, diagnose and treat mental health issues and disorders.

Which one is best for me?

Your GP can help you determine which would be best for you, but often times if you have a serious mental disorder, both will be necessary.  For example, conditions such as Bipolar Disorder or Schizophrenia will likely benefit from seeing a Psychiatrist for medication management and a Psychologist for talk therapy.

As a general rule, if you are experiencing depression, or anxiety symptoms, talking to a Psychologist is a good place to start. Medication can be managed through your GP. A psychiatrist may be necessary if talk therapy and GP prescribed medication is not alleviating symptoms, or your needs are very complex. Keep in mind that Psychiatrists in Australia have long wait lists, and a referral will be needed from your GP to get an appointment.  

I think I may have ADHD, should I see a Psychiatrist or a Psychologist?

Both are trained to assess for and diagnose ADHD, however only Psychiatrists can treat ADHD with medication (GP’S cannot prescribe ADHD medication either). Due to the long wait times and high expense of seeing a Psychiatrist, it can be beneficial to initially book with a Psychologist. They can provide a full comprehensive assessment and diagnose the ADHD, then take that report your Psychiatrist to determine if medication is a viable treatment option for you.

If you believe a Psychologist is the best fit for you, Psychwest has appointments available now. Book yours here.