When I first started teaching psychology I assumed that students knew the differences between psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists. I was pretty shocked when I discovered how many were getting a degree in psychology but had no idea what each meant. When you start adding in social workers, counselors, addictions specialist, etc one can see how the average consumer would not know where to start. As I was reading a blog today about psychiatrists having to assess patients in 15 minutes it got me thinking about the different roles we all play in the mental health world.
I consider myself a therapist. That is a generic term typically applied to those with a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or similar. Although national certification for my degree would be under the term”counselor”, when I see ads in the paper for counselors the degree requirements typically are lower. Additional confusion comes in depending on what state you live in, as the requirements to be “licensed”, “certified”, or “registered” is different in each.
After working in the field for a few years I decided to do what I really wanted to do I need a doctorate degree; I wanted to be a psychologist. Psychologists can do more than those with a master’s degree in most states. I wanted to be able to complete more thorough assessments, including psychological testing, and where I lived that required a doctorate degree. There were very few psychologists who actually practiced therapy where I lived. Nearly all completed assessments only, and got paid very well for it. I changed my mind about the degree after losing my dad to cancer and having a third child; life was just too short for 3 – 5 more years of school.
I try to explain the multiple roles to students; I find it can get very confusing. I am going to try and break it down here, for a consumer who may need services. Typically a person with “normal” mental health issues can see a person with a master’s degree and get what they need. My degree is in “Counseling Psychology”, and I have worked with some very difficult populations over the years, but I am not licensed or certified by any state. Whether or not you need to see someone who is licensed is more dependent on insurance requirements and local laws than anything else. The experience someone has is likely a better indicator of whether or not someone can help you then what certification or licensure they have.
If you need more testing or assessment based services, a psychologist will be your best bet. There are psychologists who practice therapy and you can get both needs met with them, but it is not always the case and both are not always needed. It is also a good idea to find out what services insurance will pay for; sometimes they deal with psychologists as specialists, charging higher co-pays.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor. They are the ones who deal with psychotropic medications. Most primary care physicians are comfortable with your average anti-depressant and anxiety medications, but if problems are at a higher level, or the basics are not working, a psychiatrist is your only option in most states.
Are you confused? It can be a daunting task to determine who is best to help you if you are seeking mental health treatment. Start with your family doctor, as often they know what occurs in the community. Look at your insurance to determine what is/is not covered. Ask friends and co-workers for recommendations. Most importantly, seek help if you need it. A therapist can refer you to a psychologist or a psychiatrist if they feel it is indicated in your case; you don’t have to make such a decision alone.