Psychologist or Psychiatrist? Understanding the Difference

When seeking mental health support, many people are unsure whether they should see a Clinical Psychologist or a Psychiatrist. Both professionals play important roles in mental health care, and they often work closely together — but their training and the way they help can be quite different.

This article explains the difference in a clear and supportive way to help you decide what might be right for you.

What Is a Clinical Psychologist?

A Clinical Psychologist is a psychologist with advanced postgraduate training in assessing and treating mental health conditions. In Australia, Clinical Psychologists complete:

• An accredited psychology degree

• A Master’s or Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology

• Extensive supervised clinical training

Clinical Psychologists specialise in psychological assessment and therapy. They help people understand their thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and patterns, and work collaboratively to create meaningful and lasting change.

Clinical Psychologists commonly support people with:

• Anxiety and depression

• Trauma and PTSD

• Stress, burnout, and adjustment difficulties

• Relationship and emotional regulation concerns

• Long-standing or complex mental health challenges

They use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed approaches.

What Is a Psychiatrist?

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in mental health. Psychiatrists complete:

• A medical degree

• Hospital-based training

• Specialist training in psychiatry

Because they are medical doctors, psychiatrists can:

• Diagnose mental health conditions

• Prescribe and manage psychiatric medication

• Monitor physical health factors related to mental illness

Psychiatrists often work with people experiencing:

• Severe or acute mental illness

• Complex mood or psychotic disorders

• Significant risk or hospitalisation needs

• Situations where medication is required

Appointments with psychiatrists may be less frequent and more focused on diagnosis and medication management, though some psychiatrists also provide psychotherapy.

How Do Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists Work Together?

Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists often work as part of a collaborative care team. Many people benefit from seeing both:

• A Psychiatrist for diagnosis and medication

• A Clinical Psychologist for ongoing psychological therapy

This combined approach allows both the biological and psychological aspects of mental health to be addressed.

Medicare and Referrals in Australia

• To see a Clinical Psychologist under Medicare, you usually need a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP.

• To see a Psychiatrist, a GP referral is also required.

Medicare rebates differ between services and depend on factors such as session length and provider type.

Which One Is Right for You?

The right choice depends on your needs:

• If you’re seeking therapy, emotional support, and skill-building, a Clinical Psychologist may be a good place to start.

• If you need medication assessment or medical management, a Psychiatrist may be recommended.

• Many people benefit from working with both at different stages of their mental health journey.

A Final Word

Seeking support is an important and courageous step. You don’t need to have all the answers before reaching out.

If you’d like to discuss whether working with a Clinical Psychologist is right for you, or if you need help navigating referrals or treatment options, you’re very welcome to get in touch. I’m happy to provide information and support you in choosing the next step that feels right.

Warmly, 

Amy

Clinical Psychologist