So, you’ve been asking yourself “What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?”. Good news, you’re not alone. It’s a very commonly asked question, and fair enough, it’s easy to see why people get confused.
After all, both deal with mental health. Both help people who are struggling emotionally or mentally. So… psychologist vs psychiatrist - what’s the big deal?
Well, although they sometimes work together side-by-side, the difference between a psychologist and psychiatrist is really quite significant. From education and methodology in how they treat patients - and yes, even salary - there’s a great deal that differs between them.
Let’s walk through it, step by step, so you understand exactly who does what - and more importantly, who you may need to see when the time is right.
Who is a Psychologist?
A psychologist is someone who researches how you think, feel and act - essentially, your mind in action. They’re trained to know about human behavior and feelings and assist you in working through issues using psychological methods and performing assessments like IQ Tests, Aptitude Tests and Personality Assessments.
Here’s what psychologists pay attention to:
- Thoughts, feelings and behavior - particularly how they all relate.
- Cognitive functions such as learning, memory and decision-making.
- How you relate with your world, relationships and even yourself.
And they don’t even work in clinics alone. You can find psychologists in:
- Schools and Universities
- Corporate Offices and HR Departments
- Hospitals and Wellness Centers
- Research Centers
- Government Agencies
Some of the most popular psychology specialties are:
- Clinical Psychology
- Educational Psychology
- Organizational/Industrial Psychology
- Forensic Psychology
So, if you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or even relationship problems, a psychologist or therapist could be your best friend.
Who is a Psychiatrist
And finally, onto a psychiatrist
A Psychiatrist is a Medical Doctor who specializes in Mental Illnesses. Diagnosis and Treatment are the focal points here, with strong overtones of biological and medical components.
Here’s what they are all about:
- Diagnosing Mental Illness such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, etc.
- Writing prescriptions to treat symptoms
- Conducting specific medical treatments, such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), if required
Psychiatrists usually practice at:
- General and Psychiatric Hospitals
- Private Clinics
- Rehabilitation Centers
- Government or Military Health Services
As they belong to a medical background, they usually deal with more serious mental illnesses, focusing primarily on their biological and neurological aspects, and integrate care with psychologists or therapists if there is also a need for therapy.
Educational Pathway
This is one of the largest contributors to the psychologist vs psychiatrist distinction.
To become a Psychologist, you’ll require:
- A BA or BSc in Psychology
- An MA or MSc in Psychology
- Once you have your qualifications, Clinical Psychologists are required to register with the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI)
Optional: MPhil, PhD, or PsyD if you wish to pursue clinical practice or academic research.
Meanwhile, to become a Psychiatrist, the path is a more medical one:
- An MBBS (Yes, the same as other physicians)
- MD in Psychiatry or Diploma in Psychiatric Medicine (DPM)
So, basically, the psychiatrist degree is essentially an MBBS + MD Combination. That’s how they are licensed physicians, as opposed to psychologists.
Top 10 Medical Colleges in India
Treatment Strategies
This is where the differences between Psychologists and Psychiatrists truly shine through.
Psychologists essentially employ psychotherapy. That encompasses:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
- Talk Therapy, Mindfulness and Others
Psychiatrists, as medical professionals, are medicine-focused. But they can also prescribe therapy, especially for recovery in the long term. In fact, in most instances - especially complex ones - psychologists and psychiatrists work together.
Can They Prescribe Medication?
Here is a very straightforward answer to one of the most frequently searched question:
“Can psychologists prescribe medication?”
Psychologists: Nope. In most countries, including India, psychologists don’t prescribe drugs.
Psychiatrists: Yes. Since they’re licensed doctors, they can diagnose AND treat medically.
So, if you have an issue that might need medication (like antidepressants or antipsychotics), you have to go see a psychiatrist.
Kind of Problems They Usually Tackle
So, you might be thinking “Do I have to go see a psychologist or psychiatrist?”
Here’s the lowdown:
Psychologists usually deal:
- Stress, Worry, Burnout
- Grief and Trauma
- Learning Disabilities
- Behavior Issues
- Personality Disorders
Psychiatrists are better equipped to handle:
- Severe Depression or Suicidal Thoughts
- Schizophrenia or Psychosis
- Bipolar Disorder, OCD, ADHD
- Any situation in which medication is required
So, again, depending on what you’re in need of, you’ll see one or the other - sometimes both!
Salary and Career Scope
Alright, let’s cut to the chase.
Both psychologists and psychiatrists enjoy increasing demand, particularly with increasing mental health consciousness. But as far as income goes?
Psychiatrist salaries in India are greater thanks to medical training and prescribing privileges, usually ranging between ₹15 Lakhs to ₹40 Lakhs per annum for experienced psychiatrists.
On the other hand, salaries for psychologists vary greatly depending on specialization, experience and location - but there’s plenty of potential for growth in private practice, hospitals and corporate wellness. As a beginning, you can earn up to ₹30,000 per month, while an experienced psychologist can make ₹50,000 or more.
And here’s the best part: both professions have good opportunities in academia, research and even global bodies like WHO or UNICEF.
Which One Should You Consult
Still not certain who you need? Ask yourself the following:
“Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or trapped in a negative thought pattern?”
-> Start with a Psychologist
“Are you experiencing hallucinations, suicidal thoughts, or extreme mood swings?”
-> Please consult a psychiatrist, and even a psychologist if recommended.
In the end, it’s not about a psychologist or a psychiatrist, but getting the right help. They’re both on your side in your Mental Health journey.
FAQs
Q. What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?
The difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist is that a Psychiatrist is a physician who can prescribe drugs while Psychologists are trained in behavior and therapy techniques but cannot prescribe medication.
Q. Do Psychiatrists do Therapy?
Some do, but it’s more typical for them to deal with diagnosis and medication. Therapy is usually the psychologist’s area.
Q. Is there a difference in a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist’s salaries?
Yes - psychiatrists typically make more because they have medical training and are able to prescribe medication.
