Psychiatry

Psychiatry and Psychology: What’s The Difference and Which One Do You Need

Often times the words ‘psychiatry’ and ‘psychology’ are used interchangeably to describe anyone who provides therapy services, and many people get confused between the differences of the two. Both, someone who specializes in psychiatry and psychology, both understand our emotions, feelings and how the brain works. And both, use psychological treatments to treat mental illness. And, psychiatrists and psychologists do typically collaborate with each other. For example, a psychologist may refer the patient to a psychiatrist if they are in need of a prescriber and med management. They both work in tandem from a behavioral and clinical perspective to treat a patient’s symptoms. While they work in tandem, they differ in terms of scope and content.

So what is the difference between psychiatry and psychology? There are three main differences between a psychiatrist and psychologist. The main differences are:

The three main differences between psychiatrists and psychologists are:

Psychiatrists are medical doctors, psychologists are not.
Psychiatrists is a prescriber of meds, psychologists aren’t.
Psychiatrists can diagnose illness, helps with med management and provides a variety of therapy treatments for complex and serious mental illness, while a psychologist provides mainly psychotherapy

To go into more detail, the differences relate to their training, conditions treated and the treatments provided. Those who go into the field of psychiatry attend medical school and become medical doctors before they take specialized training in mental health, and understand the connection between mental and physical issues. More distinctively, they are a prescriber of meds and med management.

While there are differences in the scope and content, both the fields of psychiatry and psychology are vital in the research and development of treatments to improve emotional and mental health. Both psychiatrists and psychologists are there to help people get better.

Do you want to make a psychiatry appointment around Las Vegas, NV? If so, come to Perceptions Counseling Center of Southern Nevada.

Dealing with the challenges of today requires problem-solvers who bring different perspectives and are willing to take risks. Perceptions Counseling Center of Southern Nevada emerged out of a pursuit to inspire and support the community, and a desire for actions to speak louder than words. Established in 2014, we’re an organization driven by progressive ideas, bold actions, and a strong foundation of support. We believe in inspiring positive relationships by creating healthy change through self awareness, communication, and helping clients find the best version of themselves.