Question : Lately I have not been feeling well from inside. I don’t know what is troubling me, but I just don’t feel happy. I am thinking of visiting a mental health professional, but I am confused about whom to consult– A psychiatrist, Psychologist, or Counselor? Teentalker
Dear Teentalker,
Thanks for reaching out.
Yes, sometimes people feel confused about whom to go to. There are significant differences between these professions in terms of education, training, and additional responsibilities.
Counselor – Professional counselors have a master’s degree or higher in mental health counseling. They work with clients to help them learn better ways to manage their problems, mainly by using different therapies while talking. Counselors deal with people suffering from problems that cause emotional distress, such as anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, sexual disorders, changes in life, and substance abuse.
Psychologists – Psychologists perform the same duties as professional counselors, but they also provide additional psychological services, such as administering psychological or diagnostic tests like a personality test, interest test, IQ test, etc. However, clinical psychologists may prescribe medication if they have the license to do so.
Psychiatrist – Psychiatrists are medical doctors who complete specialized training in psychiatry after MBBS. They are able to prescribe medication.
So in your case, you can visit a psychologist or a counselor and if you need any medications, then they will inform you to consult a psychiatrist also. Generally, when the problems are chronic like depression or some disorders, then it is always advisable to take medications as well as therapy.
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