Whats the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist and counselor?!
Question: Whats the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist and counselor.?
I need some help with personal things in my life. I tell myself is stress but I know it goes deeper than that not just on the obvious reason why I get stressed.
Im a little confused on where to go. Do I just need counseling.? or what.?
Id really appreciate your help. Thanks!Health Question & Answer
Im a little confused on where to go. Do I just need counseling.? or what.?
Id really appreciate your help. Thanks!Health Question & Answer
Answers:
A psychologist is someone who has a phD or psyD who counsels. They have Dr. in front of their name. But they can help you with whatever mental health issue you may be experiencing. However, psychologist normally deal with more severe psychoses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
A psychiatrist is more of a medical doctor. They have a specialty in mental health diagnoses and can prescribe medication. psychologists cannot prescribe medication. That is the major difference.
A counselor has either a bachelor's or master's in a human service field. Someone with this classification can help you, no problem. They just have not attended school long enough to be called "Dr."
If you just need someone to talk to about certain stressors in your life, you should start with a counselor. They will be more relatable. And cheaper. And easier to find. The counselor can point you in the right direction should you need more extensive help.
I hope that synopsis helped!Health Question & Answer
A psychiatrist is more of a medical doctor. They have a specialty in mental health diagnoses and can prescribe medication. psychologists cannot prescribe medication. That is the major difference.
A counselor has either a bachelor's or master's in a human service field. Someone with this classification can help you, no problem. They just have not attended school long enough to be called "Dr."
If you just need someone to talk to about certain stressors in your life, you should start with a counselor. They will be more relatable. And cheaper. And easier to find. The counselor can point you in the right direction should you need more extensive help.
I hope that synopsis helped!Health Question & Answer
A psychologist has a degree in psychology at a Masters or Phd level of education...trained to help you sort out personal problems. He/she cannot prescribe medication. A psychiatrist is first of all a doctor, an MD who specializes in the field of psychiatry...behaviors of the mind, brain & nervous system...diseases of the mind, brain, & nervous system. The problems may range from mild to acute. Since he/she is a doctor, he/she may prescribe medicine that will help with problems or disorders serious enough to need it. Counselors are trained in psychology or social work & often work with a doctor but may may also work on their on. Those who do strictly counseling will
suggest more specialized help if they deem it is needed. The level of expertise goes from counselor to psychologist to psychiatrist.
I am currently under the care of a psychiatrist & a therapist (counselor) who work together. The psychiatrist prescribes meds & does med checks for the meds I need...the therapist simply listens to & offers feedback on whatever I want to talk about. (I am a manic depressive...have been for 29 years...am stable & in remission.)
If you have a family physician or maybe even a clergyman, you might get advice from one of them on which is the best path for you to take. If you feel you need it for any reason, then by all means pursue it. You will be glad you did. Good luck.Health Question & Answer
suggest more specialized help if they deem it is needed. The level of expertise goes from counselor to psychologist to psychiatrist.
I am currently under the care of a psychiatrist & a therapist (counselor) who work together. The psychiatrist prescribes meds & does med checks for the meds I need...the therapist simply listens to & offers feedback on whatever I want to talk about. (I am a manic depressive...have been for 29 years...am stable & in remission.)
If you have a family physician or maybe even a clergyman, you might get advice from one of them on which is the best path for you to take. If you feel you need it for any reason, then by all means pursue it. You will be glad you did. Good luck.Health Question & Answer