Psychiatrists, Psychologists,Therapists: A Guide to Knowing the Differences

There is quite a bit of confusion surrounding the differences between a psychiatrist, a psychologist, and a therapist. The purpose of this article is to clear up the confusion so readers will know the differences and similarities between psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. Understanding these differences and similarities may help you decide who to call if you are feeling in need of mental health support.

What is a Psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) who has completed a special set of coursework in the field of psychiatry. In addition, a psychiatrist has completed at least a four year residency which included, at a minimum, three years in psychiatry. Psychiatrists are expected to pass a day's worth of written tests covering all of their education and training and are expected to undergo and pass a thorough oral examination. To practice psychiatry a psychiatrist must obtain board certification and have an unrestricted license to practice medicine the U.S. Psychiatrists must go through a recertification process once every ten years.

Some responsibilities of a psychiatrist include: diagnosing and preventing mental illness, treating individuals who have addictive, mental, and emotional illnesses, ordering diagnostic health tests, prescribing medications, and practicing psychotherapy.

What is a Psychologist?

There are several different fields of psychology each requiring specialized kinds of training. In general, the course of study for psychologists includes: understanding the physical, emotional and social aspects of behavior. Psychologists can have a clinical practice with a master's degree, but are required to work under the supervision of a doctoral-level psychologist. The field of school psychology requires a master's degree and the completion of a 1-year internship.

Clinical and counseling psychologists are required to earn a doctorate degree (Ph.D., or Psy.D). This course of study generally takes 5-7 years of graduate work. Earning a Ph.D. requires the completion of an original research study and writing a dissertation about the research. Someone who earns a Psy.D does not have to conduct research and write a dissertation, but must complete practical work experiences and pass a set of rigorous tests.

What is a Therapist?

Similar to the field of psychology, there are many different kinds of therapists including: social workers, psychiatric nurses, art therapists, music therapists, drama therapists, hypnotherapists, and more. In general, therapists hold a master's degree in their field of specialty and have completed a supervised internship. Depending on the state, a therapist may be able to work with clients with a bachelor's degree if they are supervised by a psychologist or licensed therapist.

In summary, the major differences between psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists are the type of educational degrees they have earned, the kinds of services they are licensed to provide, and the level of supervision they must have to practice. Psychiatrists must be physicians and can prescribe medical tests and medications. Psychologists and therapists must refer patients to a psychiatrist or physician for medical testing and determination of need for medication.