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Mental health issues can get really challenging if not addressed at the right time. However, what is equally important is to know whom to approach when it comes to addressing them. Think of options, and two prominent names come to our mind – Psychiatrists and Psychologists. 

There is no doubt that both cater to the mental well-being of individuals. But when it comes to practice, both differ!

How? This article tells you more about the difference between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist.

 

Psychiatrist vs Psychologist

It is truly interesting to understand the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist.

• While a psychiatrist pursues a specialization in the field of Psychiatry after completing their basics in medical education, like an M.B.B.S., a psychologist, on the other hand, holds a research degree in psychology, like a Ph.D. 
• A psychiatrist is more oriented towards analysing the fine link between mental and physical health, while a psychologist works more on the scientific aspect of human behaviour and emotions.
• Being more of medical doctors, psychiatrists can adopt the traditional way of conducting a wide range of tests and prescribing medications based on the diagnosis to address a particular mental health issue. On the other hand, psychologists work more towards offering a therapy-based treatment, like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Psychodynamic Therapy.
•  Psychiatrists treat complex mental health issues like Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder, while Psychologists can help in managing emotional stress and improve relationships.

Having understood some key differences, it is now equally important for you to know whom to see and when.

 

Choose a psychiatrist if:

• You experience severe, recurring symptoms that impact your daily life consistently.
• You are confident about adopting the traditional approach of medications.
• You are open to a wide variety of diagnostic tests, including imaging tests, to secure a correct diagnosis.
• You are open to longer durations of treatment, including hospitalization if required.

 

Choose a psychologist if:

• You are impacted by stress, anxiety, or mild depression
• You are not in favour of extensive medications
• You are looking at addressing your issues through behavioural and talk therapies.
• You want to improve your overall well-being, including your mental frame of mind.

While psychiatrists and psychologists can differ in approach, they are also known to work together while solving extremely complex cases. You will do well to initially get in touch with your family physician and then request a suitable reference. 

In case you or a loved one is wondering as to, “who is the best psychiatrist near me whom I can approach?”, please feel free to get in touch with our experienced team of eminent doctors at MaargaMindcare who have solved many complex mental health cases and brought smiles back on the faces of over a thousand families. 

With our doctors, you are in very safe and secure hands.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do Psychologists prescribe medications?
   Psychologists mainly address mental health issues through therapies like talk and Behavioural therapies.
    
2. Do psychiatrists provide therapy?
   Yes, psychiatrists can provide therapy, but they mostly focus on diagnosing mental health problems and prescribing medicines
    
3. Who can manage Depression better – a psychiatrist or a psychologist?
   Mild symptoms can be addressed by a psychologist, whereas severe symptoms might require a psychiatrist’s intervention.
    
4. What if I need both therapy and medication?
   You can see both. A psychiatrist can manage your medication, and a psychologist can provide therapy sessions.
    
5. Is one better than the other?
   No, both are important. It depends on your needs. For medication, see a psychiatrist. For therapy or counseling, see a psychologist.