Psychiatrist, Psychologist, or Psychotherapist — Who Should You See?

The terminology can be confusing. We explain the differences between mental health professionals and help you understand when to see each one.

There are several groups of mental health professionals, each with distinct areas of expertise. Understanding these differences helps you choose the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment pathway.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. They can diagnose mental health disorders, prescribe medication, and oversee pharmacotherapy. When conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, or bipolar disorder are suspected, it is the psychiatrist who makes the diagnosis.

A clinical psychologist is a specialist in psychology who conducts psychological assessments, including neuropsychological testing, and may provide psychological interventions. They do not prescribe medication.

A psychotherapist is a specialist (a physician, psychologist, or another university-educated professional) who has completed a certified psychotherapy training program. They provide psychotherapy—a structured form of treatment through conversation.

In many cases, the optimal approach is to combine pharmacotherapy (psychiatrist) with psychotherapy—this is the standard of care in the treatment of many mental health disorders.