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A therapist is a licensed counselor or psychologist who can use talk therapy to help you treat mental health symptoms and improve how you manage stress and relationships. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose and prescribe medication to treat mental health disorders.

The most significant difference between the two fields is that a psychiatrist is a medical doctor and can prescribe medication. While psychologists typically hold doctorate degrees, they do not attend medical school and are not medical doctors.

A psychiatrist is a medically qualified doctor who deals with mental illness, as well as the interaction between physical and mental illness. It is well established that a significant proportion of physically ill patients will also have a mental illness.

Psychiatry is the branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (an M.D. or D.O.)

Common psychiatrist duties: Evaluating and diagnosing patients. Prescribing medications. Conducting other forms of treatment, such as psychotherapy or electroconvulsive therapy. Ongoing patient care and evaluation. Medication management.

Seeing a psychiatrist can provide clarity, assess your physical health, provide opportunities for personal growth, and improve the overall quality of your life. If you have been debating whether or not to see a psychiatrist, do yourself a favor and at least give it a chance.