Chicago Therapy: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are doctors of medicine who specialize in disorders of the brain/mind. They can prescribe medication, and many of them do not do traditional talk therapy. A majority of psychiatrists see patients to prescribe and monitor medication though some provide talk therapy.

Clinical psychologists are doctors of psychology who are trained in talk therapy, including behavioral forms of therapy. They have a Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy), a Psy.D. (Doctor of Psychology), or an Ed.D. (Doctor of Education). Psychologists generally do diagnostic testing and assessment, as well as treatment.

If a clinical psychologist feels that a client might benefit from medication, a referral is made to a psychiatrist or other prescribing professional such as a family doctor, pediatrician or internist. The psychologist will continue to do the regular treatment while the psychiatrist prescribes and monitors the medication.