What are the differences between psychologists and psychiatrists? Take this test to find out whether you understand key differences between these mental health professionals.
1. Which mental health professional can *always* prescribe medication?
2. Which mental health professional is a medical doctor?
3. Which mental health professional has a doctoral degree such as a Ph.D. or Psy.D.?
4. Many mental health conditions are best treated collaboratively by psychiatrists and psychologists. But on the whole, which mental health professional tends to treat more severe mental illnesses, like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder?
5. Which mental health professionals can develop a specialization, such as addiction, personality disorders, grief, adolescence, etc?
6. Which mental health professional often addresses how to achieve greater mental well-being including personal growth, relationship building, and goal achievement?
7. Which mental health professional must pass a board exam to practice?
8. Which mental health professionals’ training focuses on human behavior, psychological theories, therapy methods, research, and diagnosis?
9. For which mental health professional is the provider-patient relationship a significant factor in whether treatment is effective?
10. Which mental health professional more often uses talk therapy for treatment?
11. Which mental health professional collaborates with other professionals and may refer patients to a psychologist or psychiatrist?
12. If a person experiences symptoms of anxiety or depression, which mental health professional should they consider first?
13. If a person experiences difficult relationship dynamics, such as with a family member, romantic partner, or friend, which mental professional should they consider first?
14. If a person experiences headaches and brain fog, which mental health professional should they consider first?
15. Which mental health professional can work in a private practice, group practice, clinic, or hospital?