Written by Jennifer Ramirez, Medically reviewed by Damla Ricks
Psychologists, Psychiatrists and Professional Counselors can often work together, side by side, in the mental health field. But as someone seeking help, who exactly do you schedule with? Let us break it down for you, including the differences between them, the cost, specialties, and pros and cons of each.
What is a Psychologist?
A psychologist is a mental health professional who uses psychological evaluations and talk therapy to help clients work through issues. A psychologist holds a doctoral degree (Phd or PsyD) and in the state of Texas, cannot prescribe medication or order medical tests such as blood or imaging tests. They have extensive training in psychological research and clinical practice. Psychologists can provide tests and assessments that help diagnose a condition such as ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, anxiety disorders and depression. Psychologists can diagnose a variety of conditions including autism spectrum disorder, bipolar, addiction disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and many more with thorough assessment. They can help clients through talk therapy with many conditions including but not limited to addiction disorders, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, anger issues, eating disorders, and trauma. Seeing a psychologist can cost more than seeing an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) because psychologists typically have a higher level of education and training, which often translates to a higher cost per therapy session; however, the exact price can vary depending on location, experience, and the specific practice you visit. Price can range between $100 to $250 per session with the initial evaluation costing more.
In summary, a Psychologist:
- Holds a Phd or PsyD
- Can do assessments and make official diagnosis
- Can provide talk therapy
- CANNOT prescribe medication in the state of Texas
What is a Psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a mental health Doctor (MD) who can diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral health conditions. They CAN prescribe medication and conduct other medical treatments and tests. While a psychologist studies behavior, psychiatrists’ main focus is in medicine towards the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders. Not only can they assess mental conditions, but they can also study physical aspects that can affect psychological conditions. Psychiatrists can help create individualized plans to treat conditions including medication, medical treatments such as electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) and counseling or talk therapy.
Signs to seek help from a psychiatrist for diagnosis or treatment might include substance use, severe depression, panic attacks, engaging in risky behavior, lack of emotional control, and excessive anxiety or fears. Cost can range from $100 to $500 per session with the initial evaluations costing more.
In summary, a Psychiatrist:
- Holds a MD and attended Medical School
- Can do assessments and make official diagnosis
- Can provide talk therapy
- Can prescribe medication in the state of Texas
What is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor or Therapist?
Mental Health Counselors, including Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) provide talk therapy and counseling to help with emotional challenges. Both can work with individuals, couples and families, with LMFT main focus being couples and families. LPC’s and LMFT’s cannot make official specialized diagnosis (such as autism, ADHD, personality disorders) or prescribe medication, but often work in conjunction with psychiatrists once diagnoses are made. Many clients may be under the care of a psychiatrist for medication management and also see a LPC/LMFT for counseling. Mental Health counselors require a Master’s degree. Counseling often focuses on particular issues and how a person’s way of thinking affects their behavior and how they act. The goal is to understand and recognize triggers and patterns so that you have the tools to process and react in a healthy way. Counseling can include but not limited to talk therapy, sand tray therapy, play therapy, and art therapy. Rates typically range from $75 to $200 per session.
In summary, a Mental Health Counselor:
- Holds a Masters Degree
- Cannot conduct specialized assessments
- Can provide a variety of therapy including talk, sand tray
Whether you are seeing a psychiatrist, psychologist, or counselor, finding help is the first step. Mental health providers can always send you in the right direction if particular specializations are required. They are all there to support and help you in your mental health journey.
Damla Ricks is a Licensed Professional Counselor working on her Ph.D. in Family and Marriage Counseling. She is trained in trauma and system based therapy. She works with adults, couples, and families. On the side, she is also a full time college instructor in Communication Studies with 17 years of experience in higher education.