04/16/2024
Curious about whether you should see a psychiatrist or a licensed psychotherapist? Deciding which mental health provider is best can be confusing and depends on several factors. Here’s a quick guide to help you make an informed decision.
The main difference between psychiatrists and licensed therapists is that psychiatrists are medical doctors who completed medical school + a four-year residency, which means they can prescribe medication for treatment. This often looks like utilizing medication as a tool in addition to therapy. Licensed therapists (LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs) can hold either a master’s or doctoral degree + have gained many years of training providing counseling + therapy before they are licensed. Licensed therapists are qualified to offer many different types of psychotherapy to tailor treatment plans to client’s individual needs. Both psychiatrists + licensed therapists can assess and diagnose mental health conditions.
Often the most successful outcome is when treatment is collaborated between a therapist + psychiatrist. A combination of medication + talk therapy is indicated for certain diagnoses such as treatment-resistant depression, ADHD, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance abuse. You might also consider seeing a psychiatrist in addition to a therapist if you are experiencing persistent symptoms that have not responded well to therapy alone, or if you suspect your symptoms have a biological or genetic component.
Whether you decide to see a psychiatrist, a licensed therapist, or a combination of the two, it is important that you feel you have a good rapport with your provider. Other factors to consider are the nature and severity of your symptoms, cost and accessibility, therapeutic goals, + preference for medication.
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To Become a Client:
Brook Choulet, M.D. | The Performance Psychiatrist™
Choulet Wellness: Scottsdale Concierge Psychiatry & Therapy
(480) 612-8985
DrC@theperformancepsychiatrist.com
Erica Basso, MA | LMFT (114828)
Group Practice Owner
California residents: www.ericabassotherapy.com