By Dr. Srinivas Rajkumar T, Consultant Psychiatrist

🤔 Confused About Whom to Consult?

If you’re struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or sleep issues, you might be wondering:

“Should I see a psychiatrist or a psychologist?”
“Are they the same?”
“Do both give medicines?”
“What if I need therapy?”

Don’t worry—you’re not alone!
Many people are unsure about the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist.

Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide who’s right for your needs.

👨‍⚕️ What is a Psychiatrist?

• A medical doctor (MBBS + MD/DNB Psychiatry)

• Trained to diagnose mental illnesses, including brain-based and biological conditions

• Can prescribe medications

• May also offer basic psychotherapy or refer to a psychologist

Common conditions treated by psychiatrists:

• Depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia

• ADHD, OCD, anxiety disorders

• Dementia, substance use, sleep disorders

🧠 Example: If someone has severe depression, is not eating or sleeping well, and may need medication—that’s a psychiatrist’s role.

👩‍⚕️ What is a Psychologist?

• Holds a degree in Psychology (M.A/M.Sc + M.Phil/PhD in Clinical Psychology)

• Trained in psychological testing and therapy

• Does not prescribe medication

• Focuses on helping people understand their thoughts, emotions, and behavior

Common areas psychologists work in:

• Therapy for anxiety, trauma, relationship issues

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), behavior modification

• Intelligence or personality assessments

🧠 Example: A student with exam anxiety who needs confidence-building and relaxation techniques might benefit from a psychologist’s support.

🩺 Psychiatrist vs Psychologist: At a Glance

🔁 Can They Work Together?

Absolutely!
In fact, psychiatrists and psychologists often collaborate.

A psychiatrist may stabilize the person with medications,
and a psychologist may help build long-term coping skills through therapy.

This combined approach is especially helpful for:

• ADHD

• Depression with past trauma

• OCD

• Anxiety with physical symptoms

• Children and adolescent behavioral issues

👨‍⚕️ Looking for the Right Support?

As a Consultant Psychiatrist based in Chennai, I believe in holistic mental health care.
I regularly work with psychologists, therapists, and families to provide:

• Accurate diagnosis

• Medication only when needed

• Referrals to trusted psychologists for therapy

• Long-term recovery plans with regular reviews

📞 To schedule a consult: 8595155808
📍 Visit me at Apollo Clinics (Velachery & Tambaram)
🌐 Online consults available

🧾 Final Word

You don’t have to choose one over the other.
You just have to choose what’s right for you right now.

If you’re unsure where to start, a psychiatrist can help with:

• An initial assessment

• Deciding whether therapy, medication, or both are needed

• Referring you to the right psychologist if necessary

Mental health is teamwork—and you’re already taking the first step by learning more.