Millions of people in the United States and around the world live with mental health conditions. Mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and others can impact daily functioning and quality of life.
Mental health disorders often respond well to treatment. However, many people do not seek treatment when they need it. There are many reasons people do not seek mental health treatment. Not knowing about available services is one barrier between people and the help they need.
This article will provide information about the services psychologists and psychiatrists offer. You will learn:
- What services a psychologist provides
- What services psychiatrists provide
- The differences between a psychologist and psychiatrist
- Where to find mental health treatment and support
If you or a loved one lives with a mental health condition, you are not alone. Contact the Agape Behavioral Health specialists to explore our supportive programming or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is a Psychologist?
A psychologist is a mental health professional who holds an advanced degree in psychology. Psychologists can provide talk therapy and diagnose mental health conditions.
Psychologists may see patients in many settings, including:
- Clinics
- Hospitals
- Private practices
- Drug and alcohol rehab centers
- Residential treatment facilities
To become a psychologist, someone must obtain a Doctoral degree in psychology. They may spend up to 10 years pursuing the education necessary for this role.
What Services Does a Psychologist Offer?
Psychologists offer talk therapy focused on addressing mental health concerns. Here is an overview of the services a psychologist may provide.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy. This type of therapy can help people identify the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. People work with a psychologist individually or in groups to set goals, learn new skills, and make meaningful changes.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a form of talk therapy that can help people improve emotional regulation. People work with a psychologist to practice distress tolerance, use mindfulness, and develop other skills. These skills can help to reduce impulsive or destructive behaviors.
Psychodynamic therapy
Psychodynamic therapy can help people identify and change long-held patterns. People gain more awareness of their feelings, thoughts, and beliefs, allowing them to make meaningful changes.
Addiction therapy
Licensed psychologists with specialized training may treat mental health disorders and substance use disorder (SUD). Clinical psychologists can provide tailored support and therapies to help people with SUD overcome the condition. People may work with a psychologist during rehab and in aftercare programs to maintain their recoveries.
Diagnostic assessments
Licensed psychologists can administer tests and diagnostic assessments. These types of evaluations are critical in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. Psychologists can identify symptoms and perform the correct tests to diagnose accurately.
Psychologists play an essential role in helping to diagnose and treat those living with mental health conditions. People may receive care from a psychologist in a medical care center, outpatient clinic, and other settings.
Agape Behavioral Accepts Private Insurance Plans 
What is a Psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating mental illness. Like other doctors, psychiatrists attend medical school and have medical degrees. They can diagnose and treat mental health issues. In total, psychiatrists may spend 12 years or more in undergraduate and medical school before becoming a licensed psychologist.
Psychiatrists can offer talk therapy in addition to medical services. However, most psychiatrists focus on diagnosing and prescribing medications.
What Services Does a Psychiatrist Offer?
A psychiatrist is a medical professional with specialized training in treating mental health conditions. Here is an overview of the services a psychiatrist may offer.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is a critical aspect of treating a mental health condition. Psychiatrists use specialized testing procedures to assess a person’s psychological and physical health. This process ensures proper diagnosis and tailored treatment.
Treatment
Psychiatrists develop treatment plans that include medications, talk therapies, and other interventions. They can prescribe psychiatric medications, monitor symptoms, and track their patients’ progress. Psychiatrists offer medication management services, meaning they work with patients to find the most effective medications with the least side effects.
Medical procedures
Psychiatrists may offer other medical procedures related to mental health care, including electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
Education
Psychiatrists educate patients, family members, and other mental health professionals about best care practices and new developments in care.
Psychiatrists play an essential role in comprehensive mental health treatment, meeting the mental health and medical needs of their patients.
Psychologist vs Psychiatrist: Which is Right For Me?
Psychiatrists offer the most intensive care for people with mental health conditions. You may benefit from seeing a psychiatrist if:
- You have severe, new, or worsening mental health symptoms
- Your symptoms have returned after going away for some time
- Other types of treatment aren’t helpful
- A medical professional refers you to psychiatric care
- You have thoughts of harming yourself or others
A psychologist can provide diagnostic treatment and care, including talk therapy. It is important to consult with a medical professional to determine which level of mental health care you need.
Contact the specialists at Agape Behavioral Healthcare to help you choose between psychology and psychiatry care. We can help you find the right level of care to meet your unique needs.
Find Treatment Now
If you or a loved one lives with mental health symptoms, you are not alone. Find education, treatment, and support at Agape Behavioral Healthcare. Contact our intake team to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
