Navigating the world of mental health services can be challenging and overwhelming at times. Seeking help can often be paramount for your mental health and well-being but knowing who to go to and what for exactly can be confusing.
Two terms that are often used interchangeably but entail distinct roles are “psychiatrist” and “therapist.”
In this blog, we will explain the similarities and differences between each before leaving some final thoughts to help you decide on what may be the most suitable option for your personal circumstances.
If after reading this, you have some questions or would simply like to find out more information then please get in touch with us here at The Therapy Company by calling 01772 725530.
What Is a Psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in mental health.
They will undergo years of study and training to obtain a deep understanding of the human mind and before qualifying as a professional in this field. This then gives them licence to medically diagnose mental health conditions as well as prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy if needed.
In their practice, psychiatrists may work with a wide range of mental health issues, providing diagnosis and treatment for conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, adult ADHD, children ADHD, and more.
They often collaborate with other mental health professionals, such as psychologists, social workers, and psychiatric nurses, to provide comprehensive care to their patients. Private psychiatrists at The Therapy Company work from our practice in Preston and also offer online psychiatry.
The approach of a psychiatrist is unique because they primarily focus on the biological aspects of mental health conditions. They will deeply assess the mind, body, thought processes, actions and more that could contribute to various symptoms.
What’s more is following this assessment, they will often prescribe psychotropic medications, that can help to alleviate symptoms, in conjunction with other types of talking therapies such as CBT.
Finally, psychiatrists are equipped to deal with psychiatric emergencies and crises. They have knowledge and expertise in this area to assess the risk of harm to others and to patients themselves.
What’s a Therapist?
A therapist is a trained mental health professional who helps individuals, couples, families, or groups navigate through various psychological, emotional, or behavioural issues.
Generally speaking with therapists, there is less deep analysis of the mind and body involved which is what a psychiatrist is especially trained to do.
Therapists focus on providing talk therapy or psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families, or groups. They help clients explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Encouragement in this way allows for the facilitation of personal insight, emotional healing and changes in behaviour.
Some common evidence-based approaches used by therapists include the likes of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, anger management, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), various assessments and other therapies.
If you’d like a full list of what we do here at The Therapy Company, we’d love to support you. Each service in therapy is tailored towards the needs of the client.
Unlike psychiatrists, therapists do not prescribe medication. Instead, they work in partnership with psychiatrists or other medical professionals to coordinate holistic treatment plans for their clients.
Therapists often play a vital role in providing ongoing support and guidance to individuals with mental health problems.
Choosing Between a Psychiatrist and a Therapist
When it comes to choosing between a psychiatrist and a therapist, it’s essential to consider the nature of your mental health concerns or of those around you, if you’re referring someone for treatment.
If you suspect that your symptoms may stem from underlying medical issues or if medication management is a priority, consulting a psychiatrist may be beneficial. But, if you are needing emotional support, coping skills, or want to explore deeper psychological issues, working with a therapist could be more appropriate.
Whether a therapist, psychiatrist, or a combination of both is the most suitable option for you, you can be sure that The Therapy Company will provide a safe space where you’ll receive the diagnosis and /or treatment that you are seeking.
Come and Speak To The Therapy Company Today!
The Therapy Company are private psychiatry practice that operates from Preston and also offers online appointments. We hope you’ve found this blog useful in distinguishing between a psychiatrist and a therapist as we know it can be a difficult concept to differentiate.
Your mental health should be a priority so try your very best to be courageous and speak to a professional if you need it.
If you’d like to know more about psychiatrist and therapist services or you have any questions then please get in touch with us which you can do by picking one of the following ways.
We have a direct phone number which is 01772 725530, or you can use our online contact form.
