Which field is suitable for me? Difference between psychiatry, psychology, psychotherapy
Very few people know the differences between psychiatry, psychology and psychotherapy. Although all three professions deal with the human psyche and there are some overlaps, there are also significant differences.
Psychiatrists complete a medical degree during their professional training in order to initially work as doctors. A subsequent specialist training lasting several years expands their specific specialist knowledge and skills, so they are familiar with the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. Psychiatrists have usually also completed psychotherapeutic training.
Due to their medical training, they are able to prescribe medication and make referrals for special examinations, such as blood tests or radiological procedures. At the same time, they issue referrals to other disciplines if, for example, psychological or psychotherapeutic treatments seem appropriate.
Psychologists first complete an academic psychology degree before starting their careers. They deal with the general behavior and experience of people and then often advise institutions or businesses. Depending on their additional qualifications, psychologists can then specialize in child, youth and family psychology, clinical psychology, neuropsychology and other areas.
Psychologists with additional training in the field of clinical psychology are allowed to carry out psychological tests and diagnose and treat mental disorders, but are not allowed to prescribe medication.
Psychotherapists complete several years of therapeutic training in order to obtain a professional license. After completing a general part of the training (“psychotherapeutic propaedeutics”), there is a subsequent in-depth course (“psychotherapeutic specialist specifics”). In the course of their career, they finally learn how to use a specific therapeutic approach, such as behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis or systemic family therapy. Psychotherapists make diagnoses and treat people according to the therapeutic approach they have learned, but are not allowed to carry out drug treatment.