Psychologists and psychiatrists are both professionals in the field of mental health, but they differ in education, training, and scope of practice.
psychologist:
- Focus on understanding human behavior, emotions, and mental processes.
- At least he/she has 6 years of college education, supervised experience, and may have a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
- Utilize psychological treatments such as talk therapy and behavioral interventions. – Do not prescribe drugs.
Psychiatrist:
- A doctor with at least 11 years of education, including medical school, residency, and possibly subspecialty.
- Has in-depth knowledge of medicine, neurology and pharmacology and can prescribe medications.
- Diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses, combining medical and psychological perspectives.