Psychologist vs Psychiatrist - What's the Difference




Although there are differences in the two fields, psychiatrists and psychologists often work together in the treatment of patients. A psychologist is not able to write prescriptions, but may recommended a patient be seen by a fellow psychiatrist in order to receive medications. And vice versa for psychiatrists, they often refer patients to fellow psychotherapists and psychologist to receive counseling and/or mental health therapy. A psychiatrist is concerned with the patients well-being, however, their focus is primarily towards disorders such as a chemical imbalance, whereas a psychologist primary focus is on the patients thoughts, feelings and general mental health.

Both a psychologist and a psychiatrist are Doctors, however, someone practice psychology has earned a doctorate degree that is either a PhD or a PsyD, whereas someone practicing psychiatry is a medical doctor. Both career choices require several years of commitment to studies and both are rewarding careers that offer a variety of subfields in which you can practice. The career outlook for both positions have been and will continue to be good career options. The salaries vary depending on the field of psychiatry and/or psychology you choose to specialize in, however, a psychiatrist typically earns a larger yearly income than a psychologist due to the medical degree.