Psychiatrist or Psychologist?

Question

So I have made the decision that I need to seek professional help regarding some issues. Mainly, I think I have ADHD, and also I am having troubles with my life/relationships due to the death of a parent in my childhood. I am fairly young, and don't have tons of money to spend - I need to choose either or. Any suggestions as to which would be a better choice for me? Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

I would start with my family doctor. second choice would be a Psychiatrist.

One major difference is that a Psychiatrist can prescribe medicines.

What you need is a diagnosis.  A Psychiatrist is the best place to start. Then you can make a choice of the best caregiver.

Answer 2

you have 2 issues. ADHD is NOT going to be treated with talk therapy in most cases. i tried it- i have ADHD and tried to learn coping skills with my licensed talk therapist, and while the skills help, they don't take the place of the Adderall i get from my psychiatrist.

so in that regard, a psychiatrist is best. however, a licensed nurse practitioner can prescribe meds in many states.

but then, if you need to talk out issues, you're going to need someone like a licensed social worker. they're not that expensive compared to psychologists, and provide good support.

i have bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. i see a nurse practitioner for my psychiatric needs (meds for my conditions) and a social worker to talk. i go to a community clinic.  

Answer 3

MAYBE YOUR LOOKING FOR A PSYCHIATRIST

                         What is a Psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a medical physician who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses, including substance abuse and addiction. Psychiatrists are uniquely qualified to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological disturbance. Their medical education has given them a full working knowledge of the many causes for a patient’s feelings and symptoms. Armed with this understanding, psychiatrists can make a complete, accurate diagnosis and then recommend or provide treatment.

                                   What is a Psychologist?

Psychologist: Most clinical psychologists have a master's or doctoral degree; on the doctoral level, the degree is usually a Ph.D. (doctor of philosophy) or Psy.D. (doctor of psychology, which is not a medical doctor). A psychologist applies psychological principles to the treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders and developmental disabilities through a broad range of psychotherapies. A psychologist is commonly trained in advanced psychology, abnormal psychology, statistics, testing theory, psychological testing, psychological theory, research methods,psycho-therapeuticc techniques, and psychosocial evaluation.

AGAIN MAYBE YOUR LOOKING FOR A PSYCHIATRIST, BUT GET AN EVALUATIONN DONE 1ST SO THAT THEY CAN DETERMINE WHATS BEST FOR YOU

Answer 4

If you don't have money find a therapist....neither the psychiatrist or psychologist but a licensed therapist ... an LCSW or LCPC... they are both masters degreed level therapists who have had to do one year internships and work under supervision before getting their licenses.  The LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker (master's level social worker,) the LCPC is a licensed clinical professional counselor (a psych degree.)

The psychiatrist is a medical doctor and for therapy will be more expensive and the psychologist is a Phd level usually, as is a PsyD, so they will be more expensive.

Many therapists are just as competent as anyone else -- and it depends on the fit with you, not someone's degree that makes them good.  Remember, you can always change if you don't feel like it is working out.

Best of luck.  

Answer 5

Always start with a therapist. You recognize the fact that childhood experience has shaped your adulthood, which is a huge step in the right direction, making therapy more effective. Should the psychologist have any reason to think you may benefit from, or need, medication, he/she will refer you to a psychiatrist. I think, though, that most people benefit more from psychotherapy if they go in with the right attitude as you seem to have.

Answer 6

Neither. I would choose a licensed clinical social worker, who is likely to view problems in a much more holistic and "total person" way than either a psychologist (who will most likely want to test you--very expensive), or a psychiatrist, who usually only prescribes medications and usually doesn't do therapy (unless it's a private practice psych. and then it will be really expensive). You can find a licensed clinical social worker (make sure they are LICENSED and have an MSW degree) in your area by visiting the site socialworkers.org

Should be cheaper and in my opinion, much more effective therapy. You can have medications prescribed by either your family doc or a psychiatrist who works with the social worker (if you need meds).

Good luck !!