Ashima Sharda Mahindra • 27 Jul 2024
What is The Difference Between A Psychologist And A Therapist? Who Should You Choose For Your Mental Health Issue?
Both psychologist and therapist must be licensed so that they can legally practice their profession
Anyone suffering from any mental health issues is always suggested to take the services of experts who – through individual, group, couples, or family therapy can help you prioritize your well-being. And so, psychologists and therapists are crucial professionals whose credentials matter a lot when it comes to treatment. So, let us know what the important similarities and differences are between the two so that you can make the right decision for your mental health needs.
How are a psychologist and therapist similar?
Both psychologists and therapists can help you:
- Majorly improve your mental health
- Boost your emotional health
- Help with behaviour disorders
However, both professionals must be licensed so that they can legally practice their profession. For that, they need to undergo education and training in therapeutic techniques to help people address any mental, emotional, and behavioral health concerns.
How are psychologists and therapists different from each other?
The main differences between psychologists and therapists involve the:
- Level of training
- Authority to make mental health diagnoses
- Approach and attitude towards treatment
All therapists must have a master’s degree in a field related to psychotherapy, while psychologists must have a doctorate-level degree.
The work scope of a psychologist
A psychologist may help with mental health concerns in the following ways:
- Diagnose a mental health condition based on observations and surveys
- Thorough research on your condition
- Providing treatment recommendations
- Providing therapies that help your condition help you work through emotions and sensations so you can better understand them and make constructive decisions from them
- Help you work with a psychiatrist to get a prescription if needed
The work scope of a therapist
A therapist would focus on:
- Gaining a big picture of how your life is
- Helping you with your feelings
- Guiding you through decision-making processes
- Using talk therapy techniques for support
Who should you see?
Depending on the kind of mental health issue you are facing, you may contact a therapist or a psychologist. While both are thorough professionals, they can help you in different ways. Always check their qualifications and training and the kind of approach they plan to take on your case.
It is also important to know their specialization, like:
- General counseling
- Divorce or relationship matters
- Grief
How much do they cost?
Always make sure to find in advance the costs that the two professionals would incur for taking you as a client. Here are some tips when it comes to anticipating costs for seeing either of the two:
Always be sure of the fee
For mental health issues, a psychologist and therapist may charge you a higher fee, especially if they are experienced and popular.
Reputation
The reputation of a particular therapist or psychologist can lead to their charges being on the higher side.
Try community apps
Community clinics or counseling apps are always less costly and can offer you some affordable options.
Group therapy
Group therapy is always cheaper and can be used to treat a variety of conditions like emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).