What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychotherapist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor. They are able to perform a psychological evaluation to determine whether or not medication is recommended. A psychotherapist has training in performing therapy and will not be prescribing medication. Dr. Jones has six years of post graduate education for conducting psychotherapy. If a disorder that could be assisted with medication is suspected by the therapist, then diagnosis by a psychiatrist should come before a treatment plan is developed by a psychotherapist. A condition requiring medication may additionally require services of a psychiatrist in parallel to treatment from a psychotherapist. Dr. Jones frequently works in conjunction with psychiatrists and forms a treatment “team” approach when needed.
