The difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist, and psychotherapist. A psychologist is someone who has completed a 5-year degree in psychology and is qualified to conduct psychological tests (diagnosing psychological disorders) and provide psychological counseling. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who uses medication in the treatment of patients with mental disorders.
Psychotherapist A psychotherapist is someone who, after completing a 5-year master’s degree (not necessarily in psychology), undergoes specialized postgraduate training preparing them for this profession. A necessary requirement for individuals wishing to work as psychotherapists is to undergo their own psychotherapy.
Psychologist or psychotherapist? Who to seek help from? In summary: psychologists and psychiatrists cannot be psychotherapists without undergoing specialized training, including their own psychotherapy.
