6 minutes agoAuthor: Shashank Shukla
- copy link

We Everyone faces mental or emotional problems sometimes. The reasons for this can be stress, anxiety, depression and relationship problems. As this problem increases, we need experts who help us get out of it.
However, when it comes to mental and emotional health, we face a problem whether to take the help of a psychologist or a therapist. This question sometimes leaves us confused. Generally we do not know whose help we need in which situation.
So today we relationship I will know that-
- What is the difference between a psychologist and a therapist?
- What are the similarities between the two?
- What do we need, how to choose?

Difference between Psychologist and Therapist
When we talk about the treatment of mental problems, there is often confusion between psychologist and therapist. Actually, the main difference between these two lies in their education and training. Besides, there is also a difference in their method of treatment and approach.
If you’re thinking of seeing a mental health expert, it’s important to understand that licensed therapists typically have a master’s degree. Whereas psychologists have obtained doctorate degree.
However, despite this, some psychologists call themselves therapist, psychiatrist or psychotherapist. While some call themselves counselors. In such a situation, it is important to know which choice is better for our mental health.
Different method of treatment
Psychologists go deep into the problem through research and treat it. At the same time, therapists and counselors give priority to practical approach in treatment. Counselors especially help with problems related to family and school relationships.
What are the similarities?
There are some important differences between psychologists and therapists. However, there are many similarities between the two. Let us understand this graphically.

Difference between Psychologist, Clinical Psychiatrist and Therapist
- People who have obtained Professor, PhD or Doctoral degree in college or university are psychologists. Even though they are involved in research related to psychology, they do not have a license to prescribe medicine.
- Therapists provide treatment through counseling and also do not have a license to prescribe medicines. However, they can recommend a clinical psychiatrist for prescription after understanding the serious condition of the patient.
- Only clinical psychiatrists have the license to prescribe medicines to patients. They can give medicine considering the severity of the patient.
Characteristics of Psychologist and Therapist
Psychologists and psychiatrists are highly educated and undergo long training. Their focus is on deeper mental problems, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and mental problems. They do many psychological tests on the patient. After this, treatment is done through CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and other therapies.
Whereas therapists treat stress in relationships, grief, low self-respect and other problems of general life. Therapists have master’s degrees and provide counseling and other treatment methods. Therapists solve problems through emotional support.
How to choose the right expert
Both psychologists and therapists can help in improving our mental health. However, it is important for us to choose the right option keeping our needs in mind. Let us understand this graphically.

Let us understand the graphic in detail.
If you are struggling with problems like stress or bereavement in a relationship, both the experts can help you. Both are better options for treating anxiety and depression. Apart from this, both of them also have expertise in group therapy.
If you feel the need to change your thoughts and behavior, a psychologist may be a better option. Psychologists treat deep mental disorders.
If your mental condition is causing serious problems in everyday life, then a clinical psychiatrist can help you better.
Psychologists and clinical psychiatrists can provide long-term treatment, diagnosis, and research-based treatment. Whereas therapists help in dealing with emotional problems and general mental stress.
whose fees and how much If you are going to a private clinic, the fees may be higher. Especially if the doctor has more experience and his client list is long. In such a situation, you can also use group therapy or counseling apps, where treatment is possible at low cost. If you have insurance, check whether the name of the doctor or therapist you choose is in the insurance network so that you do not have to bear additional expenses.
Overall, psychologists, clinical psychiatrists, and therapists all work to improve your mental health. Before taking a decision in this regard, pay attention to the seriousness of your problem, need for treatment and expense.