What is a psychologist, and how does a psychologist differ from a psychiatrist? According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), psychologists have “a doctoral degree (Ph.D., Psy.D. or Ed.D.) in clinical, educational, counseling or research psychology,” and are licensed by individual states to practice psychology. Psychologists may offer psychological evaluations, treat emotional/behavioral problems and mental disorders, and use a variety of psychotherapy techniques.
A psychiatrist is a physician who’s completed a doctor of medicine (M.D.) or doctor of osteopathy (D.O.) degree. In addition, psychiatrists have also completed at least four more years of psychiatry study and training. Licensed at the state level as physicians, psychiatrists can practice medicine and prescribe and monitor medications.
Start here to find out more about psychologists, and how they may be able to help you or a loved one.
