When it comes to mental health, seeking professional help is a step towards recovery and well-being. However, navigating the mental health system can be overwhelming, especially when trying to understand the different types of professionals available. Allied BHI is here to explain the difference between a psychiatrist and a therapist, two commonly confused mental health care professionals.
Psychiatrists
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental illnesses. They are trained to use medication, psychotherapy and other treatments to manage mental health conditions. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and can provide a medical diagnosis for mental health disorders. They may also work in conjunction with therapists to provide a comprehensive treatment plan.
Therapists
A therapist is a mental health professional who specializes in psychotherapy, which is a form of talk therapy. Therapists can be social workers, licensed professional counselors or psychologists. They are trained to help individuals, couples and families with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship issues. Therapists use evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and interpersonal therapy to help clients develop coping skills and improve their mental health.
Psychiatrist Versus Therapist
The main difference between psychiatrists and therapists is their approach to treatment. Psychiatrists focus on medication management and use psychotherapy as a complementary treatment. They may also work with other medical professionals to manage physical conditions that may be related to mental health concerns. Therapists, on the other hand, use talk therapy as their primary treatment approach. They can not prescribe medication but may refer clients to a psychiatrist or other medical professional for further evaluation and treatment.
How To Choose The Right Professional
Choosing the right mental health professional can depend on a variety of factors, including:
- The severity of the mental health concern
- The preference for medication or therapy
- The availability of services
In general, if medication is required or if a medical condition is suspected, a psychiatrist may be the best option. If talk therapy is preferred or if there is a desire for ongoing support, a therapist may be a better fit.
How Allied BHI Can Help
Allied BHI works with a network of board certified psychiatrists that help to provide treatment and medication guidance for your patients. Psychiatric consultants will collaborate with the behavioral health specialist and the billing provider to provide their expertise and recommendations for treatment and medication. We work with consulting psychiatrists who have specialization in various mental disorders as well as age groups—from children to seniors.
To learn more about our collaborative care model and how it can benefit your patients, visit our website!
