The Difference Between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist: Help With Anxiety and Depression

Purpose:

Feeling overwhelmed by depression or anxiety? This guide helps clarify the differences between psychologists and psychiatrists and explores how to choose a professional based on your needs.

Summary of Key Differences

Psychologists:

• Provide mental health care specializing in behavior and mental processes.
• Diagnose through interviews and psychometric tests.
• Treat primarily via psychotherapy (“talk therapy”).
• Typically hold a Ph.D. or Psy.D. (not a medical doctor).
• Cannot prescribe medication in most states.
• May work in tandem with prescribing clinicians for medication management.

Psychiatrists:

• Are licensed medical doctors (MD or DO).
• Can assess both mental and physical aspects of psychological problems.
• Can prescribe medications for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more.
• May order lab tests and combine talk therapy, medication, and other interventions.

Prescribing Psychologists

• Offer both therapy and limited medication management in select states.

Understanding the Differences

When you’re seeking help for mental health concerns, choosing the right provider for you matters. Many people consider either a psychologist or a psychiatrist, but these professionals offer different approaches to care.Simply put, psychologists are mental health professionals who help patients with their thoughts,

• Psychologists are experts in human behavior, mental health assessment, and evidence-based psychotherapy. They focus on helping patients change thoughts, emotions, and habits through talk therapy. Psychologists typically hold a PhD or PsyD degree—they diagnose and treat mental health conditions but do not prescribe medications in most states.

A psychiatrist, meanwhile, is a medical doctor licensed to treat both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems, the American Psychiatric Association says. One of the biggest differences is that psychiatrists can prescribe medication, unlike most psychologists.

• Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs or DOs) who assess both the mental and physical sides of psychological problems. They can diagnose and treat mental health conditions through psychotherapy, and importantly, they can prescribe medications. Psychiatrists may use lab tests and prescribe antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, stimulants, and more.

Other clinicians—like primary care providers and nurse practitioners—can also help with depression and anxiety, especially for initial diagnosis and treatment.

How Do You Choose a Psychologist or Psychiatrist?

Selecting a mental health provider is a personal decision. Here are some steps to guide your choice:

• Get a Referral: Consult your primary care physician. They can suggest providers based on your symptoms and medical history.
• Consider Fit: Personal comfort with your provider is crucial. You may need to try a few professionals before finding the right match.
• Research Credentials & Specialties: Find out about their training, areas of focus, and treatment approaches.
• Explore Telehealth Options: Many providers offer virtual visits, which can be convenient.
• Search Locators: The American Psychological Association and American Psychiatric Association offer locator tools for finding a local professional.

Remember: A good rapport is essential for effective treatment.

Medication Management and GeneSight Testing

Psychiatrists and certain other prescribers can help determine if medication may improve your symptoms. If you already take prescription drugs, they’ll consider potential interactions. For personalized mental health medication decisions, some may use genetic testing like GeneSight®, but you must consult a licensed prescriber for this test.

Prescribing Psychologists: An Emerging Option

Did you know that in some states, psychologists with advanced training can prescribe medications? These “prescribing psychologists” undergo postdoctoral education in clinical psychopharmacology and must pass certification exams. States allowing this practice (such as New Mexico, Louisiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Idaho) offer expanded access to treatment, especially in areas with few psychiatrists.

Benefits:

• More seamless care—therapy and medication management from the same provider.
• Improved access in rural or underserved areas.

Limitations:

• Not all states offer this option.
• Scope of prescribing may differ from psychiatrists.

To find a prescribing psychologist, check with your state’s psychological association or licensing board.

Quick Tips: Making the Decision

• Psychologists: Great for therapy, coping skills, and behavioral change.
• Psychiatrists: Best when symptoms may require medication, especially if physical health is impacted.
• Prescribing Psychologists: Offer both therapy and limited medication management in select states.
• Other licensed providers like nurse practitioners and primary care doctors can also help—especially for medication management.

Final Thought

No matter which professional you choose, consulting a qualified mental health provider can be the first step toward feeling better. Treatment is personal—don’t hesitate to explore your options until you find the right fit for you.

In an article on the NPR website, Theresa Nguyen, chief research officer at Mental Health America, advised patients to consider their personal fit with a therapist. “It’s such an intimate experience,” she said. “It’s unlike finding any other doctor.”

If you’re interested in genetic testing, like GeneSight®, discuss it with a provider licensed to prescribe medications. And never make changes to medications without medical guidance.