Psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor: who should you see?

Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has specialised in mental health. Psychiatrists can diagnose conditions, assess whether medication would help and, where they are licensed to do so, prescribe it. They often see people with more severe or complex difficulties, such as bipolar disorder, severe depression or psychosis, and they can also offer talking support.

Clinical psychologist

A clinical psychologist has a degree in psychology plus further clinical training. They assess problems in depth and provide structured talking therapies such as CBT. They do not prescribe medication.

Counselling psychologist

A counselling psychologist is trained in psychology and therapy, with a particular focus on the relationship between client and therapist. They work with a wide range of everyday and longer-term difficulties.

Counsellor and psychotherapist

Counsellors and psychotherapists provide talking therapy. Training varies by country, from short courses to several years of study. They are a good fit for stress, grief, relationship problems and life changes.

A note on titles in different countries

Rules about who can use which title differ between countries. In the UK, titles such as "clinical psychologist" and "counselling psychologist" are protected and require registration with the HCPC. In Pakistan, Ireland, Canada and the UAE the registering bodies are different. Each Therapy O'Clock profile shows the professional's role, qualifications and where they practise, and our team checks registrations before listing anyone.

Which one should I see?

• Mild to moderate anxiety, low mood, stress, panic, OCD, relationship problems: a psychologist or counsellor is usually the best first step.
• Severe depression, suicidal thoughts, bipolar disorder, or questions about medication: speak to a psychiatrist or your own doctor.
• Already on medication and want talking therapy too: a psychologist can work alongside your doctor.

If you are not sure, start with a psychologist. A good one will tell you if you would benefit from seeing a psychiatrist as well.

Medication and online sessions

Prescribing across borders is restricted. A psychiatrist practising in one country generally cannot issue a prescription you can fill in another. If medication may help, they can discuss options with you and write to your local doctor or GP, who can prescribe locally.

Questions people ask

Can a psychologist prescribe medication?

No. Psychologists provide assessment and talking therapy. Only medical doctors, such as psychiatrists or GPs, can prescribe.

Is a psychiatrist better than a psychologist?

Neither is better; they do different jobs. A psychiatrist focuses on diagnosis and medication, a psychologist on talking therapy. Many people benefit from both.

Can a psychiatrist in Pakistan prescribe for me in the UK?

Generally no. Prescriptions usually have to come from a doctor registered in the country where you live. A psychiatrist can advise you and write to your GP.

What does a counsellor do?

A counsellor gives you a confidential space to talk through problems and find a way forward. Counselling suits stress, grief, relationship difficulties and life changes.

Do I need to see a psychiatrist for depression?

Not always. Mild to moderate depression often responds well to talking therapy. If depression is severe, or you have thoughts of suicide, speak to a doctor or psychiatrist.

What is the HCPC?

The Health and Care Professions Council regulates practitioner psychologists in the UK. Protected titles like clinical psychologist can only be used there by HCPC-registered professionals.

What is the difference between a psychotherapist and a psychologist?

A psychologist has a degree in psychology and further training; a psychotherapist is trained in one or more therapy approaches and may come from different backgrounds. Both offer talking therapy.

Can a psychologist diagnose me?

Psychologists can carry out detailed assessments and, depending on their training and country, give diagnoses for many conditions. Some diagnoses also involve a psychiatrist.

Who should I see for OCD or waswasa?

A psychologist trained in CBT with exposure and response prevention is usually the first choice. A psychiatrist can help if medication is being considered.

Can I see a psychologist and a psychiatrist at the same time?

Yes. It is common to have medication reviewed by a psychiatrist or GP while working on thoughts and behaviour with a psychologist.

Which professional is best for marriage problems?

A counselling or clinical psychologist who works with couples, or a trained couples counsellor. Look for marriage and couples among the areas they list.