The difference between psychologists and psychiatrists
January 17, 2011
Individuals who want to relieve their mental distress can choose between going to a psychologist or a psychiatrist. The choice mainly depends on what avenues you want to pursue in treatment.Psychiatrists are physicians who are certified in treating mental disorders. This branch of medical science is most responsible for prescribing psychiatric medication. Psychiatric nurse practitioners may also prescribe medication. To become a psychiatrist, it’s necessary to obtain an advanced medical science degree, such as a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS), Medical Doctor (M.D.), or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. Most psychiatrists also specialize in a particular age group, whether children or adults, or in a specific environment, as with organizational and occupational psychiatrists. Sub-branches of psychiatry include psychopharmacology, psychiatric genetics, sleep medicine, palliative medicine, and sexual disorders.Psychologists refer to a much broader group of individuals. Some psychologists focus on research or teaching, while others apply research to real-world problems. The branches of psychology that treat individual mental anguish are called clinical psychology or counseling psychology. In the United States and Canada, psychologists must complete at least two years of postgraduate studies in psychology or a related discipline to be a full member of the American Psychological Association. Clinical psychologists in the United States are generally enrolled in either Ph.D. or Psy.D. programs, with both being equally represented. Instead of prescribing medicine, psychologists provide counseling and apply different therapeutic methods to curing mental disorders. Treatment differs widely depending on the psychologist’s training, and whether he or she subscribes to the psychodynamic, humanistic, behavioral/cognitive behavioral, or systems or family therapy schools.A recent movement has been growing to give medical prescribing privileges to psychologists who complete additional training. Medical psychologists may prescribe medications in Guam, New Mexico, and Louisianamilitary psychologists also possess the privilege.