Therapist & Psychiatrist
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Difference Between Therapist VS Psychiatrist (EST READ TIME: 3 minutes)
Therapist vs. Psychiatrist: Key Differences
Psychiatrists and therapists are medical experts who ensure the wellness of your mental health. While some people use these terms interchangeably, their roles are quite different from one another. While therapists mostly focus on talk therapy, psychiatrists focus on diagnosis, treatment, and medications to treat mental health issues. One can recommend you to seek the services of the other, depending on your mental condition. Both these professionals use their skills to understand your thoughts and properly guide you to better mental health. Read on to know more about therapist vs. psychiatrist
Difference between Therapists and Psychiatrists
| Therapist | Psychiatrist |
| Therapists are licensed mental health professionals who specialise in talk therapy. This talk therapy is also known as psychotherapy. | A psychiatrist is a licensed mental health professional who specialises in therapy, diagnosis, medication, and treatment of mental health issues. |
| In most cases, therapists are not authorised to prescribe medications. They usually refer the patients to psychiatrists to further guide them about medicine and treatment plans. | Psychiatrists can prescribe medications. Their job involves understanding the history of the patient to identify symptoms and advise a proper treatment plan. They assess the patients at different stages, track their progress, and adjust the dosage of medications if needed. |
| Usually, different therapists are assigned to different age groups. This is because teenagers, for example, may find it more comfortable to talk with a young therapist than an older one. | Psychiatrists don’t work with specific age groups; in most cases, the same psychiatrists are involved with patients of different age groups. |
| Therapists usually deal with problems like disorders due to substance use, relationship problems, eating, and the like. | Psychiatrists usually deal with severe issues like depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, suicidal behaviours, and uncontrollable mood swings. |
| A therapist cannot perform the role of a psychiatrist. | A psychiatrist can perform the role of a therapist. |
Conclusion
Since both therapists and psychiatrists are trained and licensed mental health professionals, you may be confused about whom to reach out to in time of need. Now that you know the answer to Therapist vs Psychiatrist – which one should you choose — you should take the next vital step to seek help in dealing with your mental health issue or helping a loved one recover. Seeking timely medical attention is vital to cope with any mental health issue, as it helps in faster recovery.
One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance policy can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about Wellness and other health related tips, visit the wellness corner.
Source: everydayhealth.com, onlinecounselingprograms.com, forbes.com
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.
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Published on July 17, 2024
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