An important part of proper mental health treatment is finding the right professional for your needs. Sifting through the titles, qualifications, and education requirements of mental health professionals can seem like an overwhelming obstacle. Two of the common titles given to these professionals are psychologist and psychologist. Both have an important role in mental health treatment, but many do not know the similarities, differences, or qualifications of each. Equipping yourself with this knowledge will help you make an informed decision for your treatment and care.

If you or someone you know is interested in addressing a mental health concern, contact Bishop Health today. Bishop Health is the leading choice for mental health treatment in Delray Beach, Florida. With a proven track record of evidence based practices and quality care, we are committed to the health and wellness of every patient we serve. Contact Bishop Health today to speak with a treatment advisor about your options. Your journey to the mental health you deserve can begin today.

What Is a Psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist (1) is a medical doctor who specializes in the treatment of mental health conditions including substance use disorders. Because they are medical doctors, they are qualified to address the mental and physical aspects of a patient’s care. This means that unlike psychologists, a psychiatrist is qualified to prescribe medications. Similar to psychologists, psychiatrists may use other methods of treating a mental illness besides medication. These may include various talk therapy modalities, psychosocial interventions, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). These and other psychiatric services are available through Bishop Health.

What Is a Psychologist?

A psychologist (2) is a highly trained mental professional specifically trained to use evidenced based therapeutic practices. Typically possessing a doctorate degree, these individuals have extensive experience in addressing mental health issues through a variety of talk therapy modalities. Treatment modalities used by psychologists may include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Interpersonal therapy
• Humanistic therapy
• Psychodynamic therapy

Psychologists are also qualified to assess and diagnose mental health conditions. Unlike psychiatrists, psychologists are not medical doctors and are unable to prescribe medication for the treatment of a mental health condition. Often psychologists will work in tandem with psychiatrists for medication management services.

Mental Health Treatment & Medication Management

Mental health treatment will often use a combination of medication and talk therapy. Ensuring that each of these aspects of treatment are addressed is a key to ensuring your desired outcome. This unique combination of treatment methods is specific to mental health treatment with a proven track record of success. During the assessment process, a psychologist or psychiatrist will be able to diagnose and prescribe a specific combination.

Which Conditions Can Be Treated by Psychiatrists & Psychologists?

Psychologists and psychiatrists can address a multitude of mental health concerns (3) including:

• Alcohol use disorder and other substance use disorders
• Anger issues
• Anxiety
• Body dysmorphic disorder
• Coping with a new diagnosis or managing a chronic illness
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Family and relationship issues
• Gambling disorder
• Gender dysphoria
• Hoarding disorder
• Grief and loss
• Issues with work or school performance
• Obesity
• Pain
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Postpartum depression
• Sleep disorders
• Stress management
• Self-confidence issues
• Phobias
• Unhealthy habits
• Trauma

Treatment Approaches

Both psychologists and psychiatrists will use the many of the same treatment approaches to address mental health concerns. These include regularly scheduled therapy sessions in which the mental health professional will utilize necessary forms of talk therapy specific to the patient’s situation. The differences in approach will arise when medication is required to treat a condition. At that point, a psychiatrist will be able to prescribe the necessary medication. A psychologist, however, will be required to refer the patient to a prescribing physician to receive proper medication management. Both treatment options and modalities are available through Bishop Health.

How Do You Know What Treatment Is Most Suitable?

During your initial session with a mental health professional they will conduct a thorough assessment. This will provide them with a clear picture of your condition as well as the best methods of treatment. They will be able to work with you to determine which treatment avenue will be most suitable for your specific situation. If they are unable to provide the necessary services, they are able to refer you to a qualified mental health professional that will be able to meet your needs.

Choosing the Right Professional Mental Health Provider

Many factors will determine what mental health provider is right for you. These factors include:

• Provider qualifications — If medication is required, a mental health professional with the ability to write prescriptions will be necessary.
• Insurance/ Pay structure — Many mental health providers will qualify for insurance coverage. If this is not an option, often a payment plan can be set up.
• Location — Mental health treatment that is conveniently located will help ensure regular participation.
• Rapport — Building a trusting relationship with your mental health provider will help you allow for vulnerability, a key element of the therapeutic process.

When to Seek Help

There is never a bad time to reach out for help. Many who deal with mental health issues will wait until the symptoms begin to disrupt daily life before they reach out for help. Addressing mental health concerns as early as possible is a key element in the treatment process. Speaking to a qualified mental health provider will provide you with an accurate assessment of your condition as well as possible options for therapy moving forward.

Finding qualified psychologists or psychiatrists has never been easier. Simply call Bishop Health today. Our team of qualified treatment advisors will be able to guide you through the treatment process as well as provide you with all of the necessary information. Your mental health is important, and at Bishop Health we are committed to providing you with the wellness that you deserve.

Sources:

1. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-psychiatry
2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22679-psychologist
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92254/#:~:text=depression%20(including%20subthreshold%20disorders),disorder%2C%20OCD%20and%20PTSD).