Unless you are in the profession, trying to figure out the difference between a psychiatrist, psychologist and psychotherapist is mind-boggling. Truth be told, there are many elements that cross over between all three. Some people are also trained in more than one of these professions. Here is a little guide below to help you differentiate. This can be useful if you are considering therapy or are struggling with your mental health so you can understand who you speak to and the right route for you to take.
Psychiatrist - It's important to remember that a psychiatrist is always a medical doctor. They are directly involved in the diagnosis, prevention, management and study of mental health disorders. They are the ones who prescribe the medicines to patients and monitor their progress in a medicalised way. They may have some knowledge or experience with talking therapy but this is not their area of expertise.
Psychologist - Psychologists are scientists first and foremost. They are involved in the study of the mind and human behaviour. Psychologists aren't always involved with treating patients. They may simply be researchers. However, you do get clinical and counselling psychologists who are more involved in the day-to-day treatment and care of patients. Clinical psychologists can diagnose mental illnesses in the same way psychiatrist can but they can't prescribe medicines as they are not medical doctors.
Psychotherapists - Psychotherapists or counsellors are involved in the treatment of mental disorders and normally takes the form of talking therapy or creative therapies. Psychotherapist don't diagnose but are focused on psychological intervention. They are probably what you picture when you think of a therapist or 'shrink'!
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