For mental health concerns, it is advisable to consult a psychologist or psychiatrist. However, a lot of people still confuse the two types of professions. What are the differences between psychologists and psychiatrists? Check out the following review.

Differences between Psychologists and Psychiatrists

Both psychologists and psychiatrists study psychological problems. However, when it comes to treating mental health issues, each has a different approach. Here are some brief differences between psychologists and psychiatrists.

Educational background

One of the main differences between psychologists and psychiatrists is their educational background. In Indonesia, a psychologist is a graduate of the Bachelor of Psychology (S.Psi) program who then continues to study for a psychology profession. After undergoing education, undergraduate psychologists need to take an exam organized by universities in collaboration with the Indonesian Psychology Association (HIMPSI).

Graduates of this examination program will receive a degree and Certificate of Psychologist Profession (SPP) from the university, a Register Certificate (STR) as a psychologist at each level of the HIMPSI Professional Organization Parent, and a Psychology Service License (SILP). A psychologist can then continue their education to specialist and subspecialist programs according to the study programs available at the university.

Meanwhile, psychiatrists are doctors who are graduates of the medical undergraduate program and then continue their psychiatric specialist residency. Graduates of the psychiatric specialist residency program will receive the title Sp.KJ and can continue subspecialist education to gain deeper knowledge and skills according to the study programs available at universities.

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Knowledge

Both psychologists and psychiatrists have an understanding of mental health and have undergone clinical training in diagnosing and treating individuals with mental health problems. Both are also licensed to provide treatment.

However, their training, theoretical orientation, and methods of treatment are different. Psychologists have degrees in psychology, while psychiatrists study medicine. They are trained to recognize biological processes and disorders pathologies that can affect a person's mental functioning, and vice versa.

Meanwhile, a psychologist generally studies social and cognitive factors such as their relationships, which influence a person's actions and reactions and how they give rise to symptoms of mental disorders and interfere with daily life.

Authority to prescribe medication

One of the fundamental differences between psychologists and psychiatrists is their authority to prescribe medication. Psychologists provide consultation and psychological therapy but cannot prescribe medication. Meanwhile, psychiatrists who are graduates of medical education programs have the authority to prescribe medication.

Generally, if the psychologists consider that the patient needs medication, they may refer the treatment to a psychiatrist.

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The scope of practice

A psychologist works in smaller settings, such as private clinics or large hospitals, companies or universities, and other academic fields, depending on the specialization of the profession. Specializations currently available in Indonesia include industrial and organizational psychology, child clinical psychology, adult clinical psychology, and educational psychology. Each specialization has its own differences in the application of psychological science.

Meanwhile, psychiatrists generally work in general hospitals or large hospitals because psychiatric patients tend to require treatment from other specialists. Working in a large hospital can facilitate easier access for patients treatment.

When is it necessary to see a psychologist or psychiatrist?

If you are experiencing symptoms of mental disorders such as depression or anxiety disorders and need mental health services, you can consult a general practitioner first. The general practitioner will conduct an examination, provide an initial diagnosis, and refer you to a psychiatrist.

If you experience recurring symptoms and the medication given is not effective in managing your symptoms, you should consult a psychiatrist.

Psychologists generally treat problems related to behavioral issues such as addictions, phobias, emotional disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders. Psychologists may recommend treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy.

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