The Difference Between A Psychologist And A Psychiatrist

According to the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, In the U.S. there are more than 577,000 mental health practitioners concentrate on the diagnosis and/or treatment of substance abuse or mental health issues. With many individuals to choose from, it can be challenging to determine the best course of action. In addition, many people often choose not to pursue treatment due to feelings of shame or embarrassment.

“As someone who has worked with numerous personal injury clients, I can tell you that the stigma around mental health is real. I highly suggest exploring your treatment options as you embark on your path toward recovery. You won’t regret it,” says Patrick Daniel, attorney and founder of Patrick Daniel Law Firm. To make your search less stressful, our team has put together a short guide on the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist.

How Psychologists and Psychiatrists Are Similar

Psychologists and psychiatrists both help you with mental difficulties through discussion, therapy, and behavior management techniques. In fact, the two collaborate in order to aid you on your mental health road to recovery. According to the most recent data, there are 166,000 clinical and counseling psychologists in the U.S., and only 25,250 psychiatrists. While psychologists and psychiatrists are both skilled doctors that assist you in managing your mental health, they are also distinct.

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Training of Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist

Psychologists are trained in an area of psychology (the study of the mind and human behavior) and have received a doctoral degree in that regard only-they are not medical physicians. Psychologists usually obtain one to two years of internship experience. They are also taught how to provide psychological tests, such as personality or IQ tests.

Psychiatrists, on the other hand, have passed medical school and are considered medical doctors. They obtain medical intern experience for one year and three years of residency in mental health disorder assessment and treatment. As such, psychiatrists can authorize the use of medication, however, some states permit psychologists to authorize a restricted quantity of psychiatric medications if they have taken a psychopharmacology class.

Methods of Psychologists vs. Psychiatrists

The core difference between psychologists and psychiatrists boils down to managing a patient’s behavior vs. a patient’s biology. Psychologists are skilled in giving psychosocial therapy and focus on a patient’s emotions and mind. Meanwhile, psychiatrists concentrate on the chemical imbalances in the brain and are in charge of diagnosing mental disorders and administering medication. Psychiatrists in most of the U.S. are the foremost practitioners accountable for a patient’s comprehensive mental health treatment both clinically and legally.

Have You Been Hurt Due To A Product Defect or Unsafe Practice?

If you’ve suffered from a personal injury and are thinking about pursuing litigation, our accomplished and expert personal injury attorneys at Patrick Daniel Law are here to answer your questions and help determine your next steps. We have a long and successful history of winning cases for our clients. Contact us today or call us at (713) 999-6666 to schedule a free consultation.