Which of the following mental health professionals is a licensed physician?
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The three main differences between psychiatrists and psychologists are: Show
Many people get psychiatrists and psychologists confused with each other. Both psychiatrists and psychologists understand how the brain works, our emotions, feelings and thoughts. Both can treat mental illness with psychological treatments (talking therapies). However, psychiatrists attend medical school and become medical doctors before doing specialist training in mental health. Because they are doctors, psychiatrists understand the links between mental and physical problems. They can also prescribe medications. To go into it in some more detail, the main differences relate to:
TrainingPsychiatrists are medical doctors with at least 11 years of training – usually more. They first do a medical degree at university. Next they spend at least 1 or 2 years training as a general doctor. They then complete at least 5 years training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. Psychologists have at least 6 years of university training and supervised experience. They may also hold a Masters or Doctorate level qualification in psychology. If they have a Doctorate (PhD) a psychologist can call themselves ‘Dr’, but they are not medical doctors. Clinical psychologists have special training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. Treatments providedPsychiatrists can provide a wide range of treatments, according to the particular problem and what will work best. These include:
Psychologists focus on providing psychological treatments. Conditions treatedPsychiatrists tend to treat people who need their medical, psychological and social needs considered. These are usually people with complex conditions, for example:
Someone who has attempted suicide or has suicidal thoughts will usually be seen by a psychiatrist. Psychologists are more likely to see people with conditions that can be helped effectively with psychological treatments. This might include behavioural problems, learning difficulties, depression and anxiety. Getting an appointmentAs with all medical specialists, to see a psychiatrist you need a referral from your GP (family doctor). To see a psychologist you don’t need a referral. However, in Australia a GP can refer you to a psychologist as part of a Mental Health Treatment Plan. There are around 4000 psychiatrists working across Australia and New Zealand, while there are about 27,000 registered psychologists. Working togetherPsychiatrists and psychologists often work together. A psychiatrist might make an initial assessment and diagnosis, then refer you to a psychologist for ongoing psychological treatment (talking therapy). Psychiatrists and psychologists also work together in hospitals as part of mental health teams. Who should I see?If you are unsure whether you should see a psychiatrist or a psychologist, talk to your GP. They can give you advice about whether a psychiatrist or a psychologist is right for you. It will depend on your unique situation and the type of treatment you need. Some people might see both. More about first steps to get help More about psychiatrists There are a range of professionals who can help with mental health issues. It can sometimes be confusing to work out who does what. This is a guide to the different mental health workers you might come across. PsychiatristPsychiatrists are medical doctors who are experts in mental health. They are specialists in diagnosing and treating people with mental illness. Psychiatrists have a medical degree plus extra mental health training. They have done at least 11 years of university study and medical training. They treat all types of mental illness, from mild to severe. Psychiatrists can:
Psychiatrists often lead teams of other mental health workers. They work with you to decide how you will be treated and who should be involved. You might see a psychiatrist at a hospital, in a private office or at a community health service. You need a referral from your GP (family doctor) to see a psychiatrist. In Australia, Medicare rebates are available for psychiatry appointments. More about psychiatrists Find a psychiatrist GP (family doctor)Your GP is the person to talk to first if you are worried about your mental health. GPs have a medical degree and most also have several years of supervised experience. Some GPs have extra training in mental health. They can provide general medical advice, as well as:
Some GPs can also offer psychological treatments (talking therapy). Once you find a GP you are happy with, stick with them. A good ongoing relationship with your GP can lead to fewer specialist appointments or hospital visits, and a better chance of recovery. PsychologistPsychologists are experts in the way people think, feel and behave. Psychologists have at least 6 years of university study and supervised experience. They may also have a Masters or Doctorate level qualification. There are different types of psychologists. Clinical psychologists have special training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. They are the type of psychologist you are most likely to see for help with a mental health issue. All psychologists must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia or the New Zealand Psychologists Board. Psychologists can:
Psychologists are not medical doctors and don’t prescribe medication. It’s possible to see a psychologist without a referral. But, in Australia, ask your GP for a referral as part of a Mental Health Treatment Plan. Medicare will then cover some or all of the cost of seeing the psychologist. Psychiatrist and psychologist: what’s the difference? What are four kinds of mental health professionals?The different types of mental health professionals are:. Psychiatrists.. Clinical psychologists.. Counselors.. Psychiatric social workers.. Psychiatric nurses.. Who are people called as mental health providers?They may be qualified as social workers, psychologists, peer workers, occupational therapists, or have a Certificate IV in Mental Health (non-clinical). Mental health recovery and rehabilitation workers offer support and rehabilitation services that aim to support people towards personal recovery.
Which of the following mental health professionals attends medical school as part of training?Psychiatrists attend medical school and earn an MD (doctor of medicine) or DO (doctor of osteopathic medicine) degree. They can go on for additional, specialized training in psychiatry during a residency (an additional three to four years).
Are physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders?A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (an M.D. or D.O.) who specializes in mental health, including substance use disorders. Psychiatrists are qualified to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems.
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