If you are struggling with an issue in your life, finding help can sometimes be confusing. Should you see a psychologist or a psychiatrist? What is the difference between the two, and which one can offer you the best help?
The answer isn’t simple or straightforward. Both psychologists and psychiatrists are trained in psychotherapy (often referred to as talk therapy), and both specialties are based on strong relationships and trust between client and therapist. There are a few important differences, however.
Psychologists and psychiatrists attend school for a similar amount of time, the schooling simply takes different paths. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) with a specialty in psychiatry. Once they complete medical school, they are required to complete three years of residency in assessment and treatment of mental health disorders. Psychologists complete a Master’s and then a Doctorate degree in psychology, which is the study of the mind and human behaviour. They do courses, practicums, and internships specializing in psychological assessment and treatment, as well as completing a doctoral thesis.
Beyond education, the most important difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist is their approach to treatment. Being medical doctors, psychiatrists approach treatment from a “medical model”, which is to say they look at medical and biological factors as well as psychological and social factors. They prescribe medication for mental health problems, and are considered a specialist in this regard. In some instances they may only see you for a consultation or a few sessions, and then send the recommendations regarding medications back to your family doctor.
In Ontario, Psychiatrists are covered by OHIP and require your family doctor’s referral. There is often a significant wait list to see them. Some psychologists are employed by hospitals or hired as part of your family practice are hence covered by OHIP, but there is a scarcity of these.
Psychiatrists will often prescribe medication in addition to psychotherapy. Psychologists will look to behaviours and may track sleep and eating patterns in addition to addressing negative thought patterns. They will use psychotherapy, in addition to a number of different therapy techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Of course there is no right or wrong choice when it comes to choosing between a psychiatrist and a psychologist, only the best person to meet your needs. If you see a psychiatrist it is very likely that they will suggest medication at some point in treatment. If you do not feel that medication is a route you would like to try, a psychologist may be able to best meet your needs with psychotherapy. (Seeing a psychologist does not preclude you from using medication in addition to psychotherapy; during a psychological assessment, or at any point during therapy, a psychologist may suggest a medication review with your family doctor.)
Some people have heard the myth that if you see a psychiatrist you can’t change to seeing a psychologist, but this is not the case. Sometimes consultations with both can result in the best available treatment options, but if you are struggling with which to see, you should discuss your situation with your family doctor who can offer you options based on your medical history and the severity of your symptoms.
If you feel that seeing a psychologist if the right option for you, a consultation is often the right first step. McLean Psychology Centre has a Best Match Policy, which means they want you to find the clinician who best meets your needs, whether it is at our practice, or another. Get in touch today to book your consultation.
