Psychiatrist vs. Therapist: Which One Do You Need for Mental Health Support?

March 25, 2025

Psychiatrist vs. Therapist: Which One Do You Need for Mental Health Support?

Verified By
KIMS-SUNSHINE
Specialist,
25 March, 2025

Psychiatrist vs. Therapist: Which One Do You Need for Mental Health Support? Most of us work long hours, don’t get enough sleep and compromise on getting rest or taking a few days off to recharge, because mental issues don’t seem to be that pressing. They are not prominently visible and hence mental health concerns can take a back seat. Being stressed is considered normal these days and people will do anything but get help, because the terms ‘therapy’ can seem disturbing or abnormal in general. But, how long can you keep ignoring stress related issues and other mood disorders just so you can keep thinking everything is fine? It is better to talk to a therapist or go to a doctor if you are not able to deal with the curveballs life throws at you- because, let’s face it, all of us are not built the same way.

Difference Between A Psychiatrist And A Therapist

The main difference between a psychiatrist and a therapist is what educational qualification they have. A psychiatrist needs to study to become a doctor first and then they specialise in psychiatry, while therapists may be social workers or counselors from different backgrounds. This means only a psychiatrist can prescribe medication to treat specific conditions like PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety and mood disorders, eating disorders etc. The drugs are normally prescribed at specific doses to help you deal with the symptoms, but if you think they are not working for you, you could talk to your doctor and make appropriate changes.

How To Choose Between A Psychiatrist And A Therapist

If you just need someone to listen to your concerns and help you cope with issues in a better way, then a therapist or a counselor is a good idea. Therapists use different techniques like talk therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, exposure therapy etc. depending on what issues you may be dealing with. But, if your daily life gets disrupted regularly due to intrusive thoughts or if you are diagnosed with some psychiatric disorder and you are not able to manage your symptoms adequately, then you may require medication. Specific drugs can be prescribed only by a psychiatrist, as they hold a medical degree. Some drugs that may be given are – antidepressants, antipsychotics, stimulants, benzodiazepines and others. Dosage needs to be calculated carefully, as some drugs can get addictive after a while.

Conclusion

It is not a bad idea to first start off with therapy- to help you understand what your issues are. Only then will you know how to manage them right? If simple talk or behavioural therapy works, then great. But, if you think symptoms may not get any better without any medication, you can get medications prescribed by your psychiatrist and also work on learning to cope better- by listening to what both of them have to say. Both- a therapist and a psychiatrist can help you deal with mental issues and stress- though their approaches may differ radically.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between a psychiatrist and a therapist?

A psychiatrist is a doctor who has a medical degree and can hence prescribe medication for treatment, if needed. A psychologist or therapist is one who will help counsel you, so you can deal with the challenges that life throws at you, but they cannot [prescribe drugs, as they are not medical professionals. They specialize in different approaches of therapy- like talk, behavioural, cognitive etc, depending on what you need.

Should I see a psychiatrist or a therapist for anxiety?

A therapist will help you identify your source of anxiety and then provide measures like better coping mechanisms or therapy but if your anxiety is making life difficult, then you may need to go to a psychiatrist for medication.

Which professional is better for treating depression – a therapist or a psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist can help you deal with depression if your symptoms are pretty severe and hamper your everyday life. You will mostly get better with treatment, but a therapist may also be used if needed.

What mental health conditions require a psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is equipped to deal with a variety of mental health disorders like anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, etc. as your brain chemistry is significantly different in a lot of cases, when compared to a normal individual.

Can I start with a therapist and later see a psychiatrist if needed?

Yes, you can! If you think your issues can be solved with some non-judgemental individual listening to you calmly, then a therapist will help out immensely. But, if your quality of life is generally poor due to issues like anxiety, OCD, depression or ADHD etc., then a psychiatrist can help better as they can prescribe drugs to treat those symptoms.