What is the difference between a psychiatrist, psychologist and a therapist?
A psychiatrist is a Medical Doctor (M.D.) who has graduated from a medical school. A psychiatrist’s training focuses on general medicine while in medical school. They will then go on to 3-4 years of residency where they will specialize in psychiatry. While for many years in the past, the psychiatrist normally prescribed medications and also delivered psychotherapy, their roles have changed today. For the most part, psychiatrists now do psychiatric evaluations for the purpose of determining if an individual would be appropriate for treatment with medications. If so determined, the psychiatrist prescribes the medications and then follows the patient for medication management. Medication management includes initially following the patient closely until they are stabilized with the proper dosage ( usually once every 1-2 weeks until stabilization occurs) and then usually once every 1-3 months for maintenance. A psychologist is a clinician who holds a Doctorate in Psychology (Psy.D.) or a Do
A psychiatrist is a doctor and carries the credentials of M.D. Therefore, the doctor can prescribe medication and any other psychiatric care. A psychologist carries the credentials of Ph.D and typically provides counseling services. Also, some psychologists offer administration and interpretation of psychological tests and assessments. A therapist is licensed as an LMHC (licensed mental health counselor) or as an LCSW (licensed clinical social worker) and is qualified to treat patients using a variety of therapeutic techniques.
