Cost of psychiatrist vs. psychologist?

Question

I have been referred to a psychiatrist for insomnia but it isn't covered by my insurance. I know a psychologis/therapist has far less education and can not write prescriptions but what is the normal cost of an actual psychiatrist?

Answer 1

Psychiatrists aren't cheap, and you don't see much of them - a typical session is 15 minutes.  A psychologist may be less expensive, depending on locality and treatment, and should be able to give you just as much help, sans prescription.

On a side note, the difference between psychiatrists and psychologists isn't so much in amount of training as type of training.  Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in behavioral medicine.  Psychologists are trained in behavioral science and therapeutic techniques for about as long as it takes to get through med school (and sometimes longer!).  They are also very familiar with psychiatric medicine, and in some states they are licensed to prescribe drugs.