WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A THERAPIST AND A PSYCHIATRIST?

 

Within the mental health field there are many specialties and degrees that clinicians can hold and these can become overwhelming when you are looking for mental health support. In the past, a psychiatrist was an all around mental health care provider. This means that the psychiatrist would prescribe mental health medication, and also combine that with therapy. Over time this has shifted. 

Currently, if you are seeking medication you would see a psychiatrist, who is a medical doctor.

For therapy, you would see a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (such as myself). There are other clinicians with a master's degree including Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. 

In summary, a psychiatrist is a medical doctor that prescribes medication and manages medication. If you are looking for counseling, you would seek a therapist (most commonly a social worker or marriage and family therapist.