Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist: What’s the Difference?
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Updated June 6, 2025
- The primary difference between psychiatrists and psychologists is that psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication to their patients.
- Both psychiatrists and psychologists typically possess advanced degrees.
- Even though many psychologists hold doctorate degrees, they have not attended medical school and are not medical doctors.
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What is a psychologist?
A psychologist specializes in the study of mental processes, emotions and behaviors. By examining the relationship between cognitive, social and environmental factors that influence how people think and act, psychologists can help people manage behavioral concerns and mental health conditions.Some psychologists focus their education on subspecialties related to treatment approaches, behavioral therapy, personality traits and development, research methods or psychological theories.Related: Should I Be a Psychologist? What To Expect in a Psychology CareerWhat does a psychologist do?
Psychologists focus on therapy-based treatment options, including individual and group therapy or talk therapy. Therapy aims to help patients learn how to cope with what they're experiencing and manage various mental health challenges or trauma.During a counseling or treatment session, a psychologist may make observations, conduct interviews and administer tests to better understand the patient's needs. Psychologists often provide counseling or treatment for long-term depression, anxiety and grief.Related: Learn About Being a PsychologistWhat is a psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, preventing and studying mental health conditions and developmental and behavioral issues. While they may use psychotherapy to help clients, psychiatrists also understand how biology can affect a patient's mental health and prescribe medication accordingly.Some psychiatrists work directly with patients, while others research the brains of people with mental health conditions. Psychiatrists tend to work with more complex mental health cases, including patients with conditions that affect their ability to lead fulfilling lives and participate in everyday activities.Related: What Is A Psychiatrist? Definition and Types of PracticeWhat does a psychiatrist do?
Psychiatrists use various tools and medications to treat mental health conditions that may require medication as a treatment, including bipolar disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). When meeting with patients, they may administer psychological tests and evaluations to better understand their individual needs. Psychiatrists can also order medical testing to determine whether physical ailments are causing mental health symptoms.After diagnosing a patient's condition, a psychiatrist may prescribe medication for treatment. They might prescribe medication such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, sedatives, stimulants and antipsychotics depending on their diagnosis of a patient's condition. While the patient takes the medication, the psychiatrist monitors potential side effects and signs of improvement. Psychiatrists also refer their patients to psychologists and therapists for talk, or other forms of therapy.Related: 12 Psychiatry Careers and How To Choose Between ThemEducation and training
Here's an overview of the education and training requirements for psychologists and psychiatrists:How to become a psychologist
Here are the education and training requirements for becoming a psychologist:Education requirements
An aspiring psychologist can begin their education by pursuing a bachelor's degree in psychology or sociology. Many people then pursue a master's degree in a specialized field like child and development psychology or forensic psychology. This credential can help you become a licensed therapist or mental health counselor. If you want to become a licensed psychologist, consider completing a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program, as most states require this level of education.Training and residency programs
Psychologists typically complete two-year internships in clinical settings before receiving their state license. These programs help you gain experience with various treatment methods and analytical testing while working under supervision. You may legally practice independently by passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and applying for your license.Related: How To Become a PsychologistHow to become a psychiatrist
Here are the education and training requirements for becoming a psychiatrist:Education requirements
If you want to become a psychiatrist, you can prepare for your career by pursuing a bachelor's degree in psychology or biology. This coursework prepares you to pass the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) and enroll in medical school. A Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree demonstrates your expertise in advanced pharmacology, anatomy, neurology and disease science topics.Related: Psychiatrist Educational RequirementsTraining and residency programs
Upon graduating from medical school, you can complete a four-year residency program in psychiatry. Some candidates pursue additional fellowships to train in a specialty related to addiction or pediatric care. The final step is to pursue a medical license and certification from a psychiatry board according to your state's requirements.Related: How To Become a Psychiatrist (With Salary, Skills and FAQs)Differences in conditions and treatments
Here's an overview of how psychologists and psychiatrists differ in the conditions they treat and the treatment methods they use:Conditions treated
Psychologists often treat less severe conditions, while psychiatrists often treat more complex cases. Psychologists can help people learn to cope with stressful situations, overcome addictions and manage their chronic illnesses. Generally, psychologists treat conditions that don't require medication, including:- Learning difficulties
- Behavioral concerns
- Mild cases of anxiety and depression
- Severe anxiety and depression
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
Treatments
Psychologists mainly focus on studying and modifying behavior patterns, while psychiatrists provide a wider range of treatments. For example, a psychologist might encourage a young patient to play in a space without limits or rules. By observing the child's behavior, the psychologist can understand the cause of disruptive behaviors or emotional challenges. With this information, the psychologist can teach positive behaviors or communication skills through more traditional therapy methods.Because psychiatrists have more training and a greater understanding of biology and neurochemistry, they often treat patients primarily by prescribing medication. Other types of treatment that psychiatrists can provide include:- Psychological treatment
- Brain stimulation therapies such as electroconvulsive therapy
- General medical care, including physical examinations to check physical health and evaluate the effects of prescribed medication
- Psychotherapy such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing
Similarities between a psychologist and a psychiatrist
Psychologists and psychiatrists focus on mental health conditions and the behavioral needs of their patients. While they differ in their treatment approaches, they share the common goal of improving patients' mental health. Psychiatrists and psychologists may work together to treat patients, as many people with mental health conditions respond well to medication and various forms of therapy. Depending on the severity and treatment needed, psychologists and psychiatrists can treat these conditions:- Substance-related and addictive disorders
- Insomnia and sleeping disorders
- Sexual dysfunctions
- Personality disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
Choosing between psychology and psychiatry
Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to be a psychologist or psychiatrist:- Time commitment: Psychologists typically enter the workforce sooner, as their education and training take an average of eight to 10 years. It can take around 12 years to become a licensed psychiatrist.
- Earning potential: A psychologist earns an average of $229,263 per year, while the average salary for psychiatrists is $260,224 per year. The difference is due to the advanced medical training and responsibilities of a psychiatrist.
- Interests: Psychology can appeal to individuals who want to focus on counseling patients using therapy techniques. If you're more interested in the clinical side of treating mental health issues, psychiatry may be a more suitable field.
Frequently asked questions
Are therapists psychologists or psychiatrists?
In most states, a therapist is a licensed counselor or psychologist. Therapists have at least a master's degree in a field related to psychology and treat patients through methods such as play therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. While a therapist can't prescribe medication, they can refer patients to psychiatrists for prescriptions.Related: How To Become a Therapist (With Requirements and Degrees)Can psychologists prescribe medication?
While psychologists usually can't prescribe medication, some exceptions exist. New Mexico, Illinois and Idaho grant prescription privileges to psychologists. The strict prescribing requirements include additional education, supervised work experience and certification.Who spends more time in school, psychiatrists or psychologists?
Psychiatrists and psychologists spend several years in school to prepare for their careers, though the length of their education can depend on their program and goals. While both careers require a bachelor's degree, psychiatrists also complete four years of medical school and a four-year residency.A psychologist can complete a doctorate program in anywhere from three to seven years, though they may spend less time in school if they decide to only pursue a master's degree.
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