Psychology vs. Psychiatry

Johannesburg Psychiatrist Diagram | Fourways Health Centre

Psychology vs. Psychiatry

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What is the difference between psychology and psychiatry?

People often ask what the difference between psychology and psychiatry is.

Psychologists are professionals who have extensively studied psychotherapy and how to treat mental and emotional difficulties. They are skilled in providing therapy to help people with their problems.

Psychiatrists on the other hand, are trained medical doctors who have gone on after medical school to further specialise in treating illnesses involving the mind. They understand how changes in the chemistry of the brain can cause symptoms of mental illness which need medication to treat them. A psychiatrist will primarily use medication (however this may be used in conjunction with psychotherapy and lifestyle change) to treat mental illness when medication is needed while a psychologist does not prescribe and primarily uses psychotherapy to help patients with their difficulties.

Despite the difference, psychology and psychiatry often go hand in hand and people may gain benefit from both, often used together.

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