It’s common for people to use the words psychologist and psychiatrist interchangeably as both are professionals who work with mental health and emotional wellbeing. While their goals often overlap, their training, methods, and focus differ in important ways. Understanding the difference can help you decide who to see, and what kind of support might be right for you or someone you care about.

Understanding the Difference

Both psychologists and psychiatrists aim to help people understand, manage, and improve their mental health. The main difference is in how they approach this.

Psychologists: Trained in Human Behaviour and Therapy

Psychologists are trained in the science of behaviour, cognition, and emotion. They typically complete a six-year pathway of university and supervised practice, culminating in registration with the Psychology Board of Australia and AHPRA. Many go on to complete postgraduate training and supervision to obtain endorsement in different areas such as clinical, forensic or educational and developmental psychology.

Psychologists use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy to help clients explore patterns of thought and behaviour, build emotional awareness, and develop new coping strategies.

For example, Schema Therapy can help people identify longstanding patterns of thinking and feeling, known as “schemas,” that may contribute to anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. By working through these patterns in therapy, individuals can learn healthier ways to respond to triggers and manage emotional distress.

Psychologists can:

Provide therapy for a wide range of mental health concerns
Conduct psychological assessments and diagnostic testing
Offer strategies for behavioural change, emotional regulation, and resilience
Work in settings like private practice, hospitals, schools, and research

Psychologists do NOT prescribe medication. Instead, they focus on psychological treatment, behavioural change, and building long-term skills for wellbeing.

Psychiatrists: Medical Doctors Specialising in Mental Health

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health. After completing a medical degree, they undertake several years of specialist psychiatric training under the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP).

Because psychiatrists are doctors, they can:

Prescribe medication (such as antidepressants, mood stabilisers, or antipsychotics)
Diagnose and manage complex or severe mental illnesses
Work within hospitals, community mental health services, or private practice

Many psychiatrists also offer psychotherapy, though the extent varies depending on their practice style and training.

When to See a Psychologist vs. a Psychiatrist

While there’s overlap, certain signs can guide your choice:

A psychologist may be the right fit if you:

Want to explore underlying emotional patterns, relationship issues, or self-defeating habits
Are experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood, or trauma symptoms
Wish to develop coping skills, confidence, or clarity in life direction
Are interested in approaches such as Schema Therapy that address deep-rooted patterns

A psychiatrist may be more appropriate if you:

Need a medical assessment or medication review
Experience severe symptoms such as psychosis or bipolar disorder
Have a complex mental health condition requiring integrated care

Often, psychologists and psychiatrists work together. For example, someone might see a psychiatrist for medication management and a psychologist for therapy which allows for a collaborative approach that integrates biological, psychological, and social factors. Schema-informed therapy can complement medication by helping clients develop insight and coping strategies, supporting recovery beyond symptom relief.

The Power of an Integrated Approach

Neither profession is “better” than the other they just address mental health from different angles. Psychiatrists bring a medical lens, looking at brain chemistry and biological factors. Psychologists bring a behavioural and relational lens, exploring thoughts, emotions, and patterns of experience.

For people with chronic or entrenched patterns of anxiety, depression, or relational difficulties, Schema Therapy provides a structured framework for understanding how early experiences shape current behaviours and feelings. When integrated with psychiatric care, it supports holistic treatment that addresses both biological and psychological needs.

Together, they form a holistic framework for understanding and supporting mental health. For many people, the most effective care involves collaboration between the two.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the distinction between psychologists and psychiatrists empowers you to make informed choices about your mental health care. Whether you seek talking therapy, medication, or both, support is available — and it’s okay to ask questions, explore options, and find the right fit.

If you’re unsure where to start, your GP can help with a Mental Health Care Plan, connecting you to the appropriate professional based on your needs.

Remember, therapy approaches like Schema Therapy offer tools to understand and shift long-term patterns, complementing medical treatment when necessary. You don’t have to navigate it alone and working with a psychologist and psychiatrist could support you to make meaningful change in your life.

References

Young, J. E., Klosko, J. S., & Weishaar, M. E. (2003). Schema Therapy: A Practitioner’s Guide. Guilford Press.

Australian Psychological Society (APS). (2023). Pathways to Registration as a Psychologist. Retrieved from https://psychology.org.au

Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP). (2024). Becoming a Psychiatrist. Retrieved from https://ranzcp.org

Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). (2024). Psychology Board of Australia – Registration Standards. Retrieved from https://www.psychologyboard.gov.au

National Mental Health Commission. (2022). Collaborative Care in Mental Health: Integrating Psychology and Psychiatry.

Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist: What’s the Real Difference?