Differences between a psychologist and psychiatrist

Choosing between a psychologist or a psychiatrist will depend on the severity or type of symptoms that a patient or user experiences.

If the problem involves behavioural issues, personal growth or mild to moderate emotional difficulties, a psychologist may be the best choice in most cases. If more serious symptoms are observed or situations arise where medication is required, it will be time to see a psychiatrist.

The fields of psychology and psychiatry cover numerous mental health conditions and problems. If you are interested in this area of health, the degree in Psychology in Madrid at Universidad Europea will provide you with the training and knowledge you need to face the professional challenges that arise. You can also choose to study this degree in Valencia, Alicante and Malaga.

Differences between psychologists and psychiatrists

These are some of the main differences between psychologists and psychiatrists, two closely related professions.

Studies and training

• Psychologist: this professional has a university degree in psychology and can then specialise through postgraduate studies and courses in areas such as clinical psychology, psychotherapy or other types of psychological therapies.
• Psychiatrist: in this case, to practise as a psychiatrist, you must have a degree in medicine and then specialise in psychiatry.

Treatment

• Psychologist: focuses their work on psychological therapy or psychotherapy to help their patients manage issues such as behaviour, emotions and other thoughts.
• Psychiatrist: this professional can diagnose mental health issues and prescribe certain medications or psychotropic drugs to help resolve them, as they have prior medical training.

Prescriptions

• Psychologist: the psychologist's approach is non-pharmacological, so they do not have the authority to prescribe medication to their patients.
• Psychiatrist: they can prescribe antidepressants, anxiolytics or antipsychotics, among other medications that may be necessary to improve serious mental disorders.

Conditions

• Psychologist: they focus on behavioural and emotional problems, stress and mild anxiety, as well as interpersonal conflicts, among many others.
• Psychiatrist: treats certain serious mental problems or disorders such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety attacks or major depression.

Similarities between psychologists and psychiatrists

These are the characteristics shared by both professions.

• Specialised in mental health: the aim of both professions is to improve the mental health of their patients, as well as their emotional well-being.
• Diagnosis: psychologists and psychiatrists are qualified to diagnose mental disorders.
• Interdisciplinary work: they sometimes collaborate with each other to provide comprehensive treatment to patients through psychotherapy and medication.
• Confidentiality: these professionals are bound to total confidentiality towards their patients, as well as maintaining respect and caring for them.

If you are interested in the field of mental health, medicine and everything it entails, Universidad Europea offers a wide variety of degrees in Biomedicine and Health where you can choose the branch that suits you best.