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Psychologist Vs Psychiatrist
Hi! Can you help me? What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist? I tried reading it but I need it in non-medical terminology to figure out which one I need to go to for counseling.
Thank you!
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Maybe give some free advice about: Mental health?
In the end the largest difference is that psychiatrists can prescribe medications, and psychologists cannot.
Psychiatry is routed an chemical treatment and diagnosis of mental illness.
Psychology is routed in cognitive and behavioral treatments of emotional and mental suffering.
That's a huge generalization, because just like two teachers might teach the same history class in very different ways, both psychologists and psychiatrists have a lot of freedom after they are licensed to decide what treatment approaches they think are best for each patient. In some areas, psychologists can prescribe some medications, and most psychiatrists, although being able to prescribe medications, might meet a patient and decide not to intervene medically and use more 'talk-therapy' approaches for them.
And like teachers, many have their own specializations or areas of expertise.
You probably want to start with a psychologist. Unless you are unable to leave your home, or feel your safety or health is immediate danger due to your mental state - you are probably better off with a psychologist who will focus on your behavioral issues and the problematic thinking.
You could also talk to your family doctor for a referral - if you are lucky enough to have one.
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