Psychiatrist vs Psychologist vs Therapist: What’s the Difference?

This page describes how the mental health care system in the United States is generally structured. It is not medical advice.

The mental health system includes many different types of providers. The differences between them aren't always obvious. Three of the most common mental health providers are psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. Each have distinct education, licenses, and functions within the system.

What Is a Psychiatrist?

Psychiatrists are physicians (medical doctors) who specialize in mental health. They commonly prescribe mental health medications and may offer other mental health services. Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are another type of provider who specializes in mental health and commonly prescribes medications.

What Is a Psychologist?

Psychologists are doctorally trained mental health professionals who specialize in mental health. They commonly provide therapy and psychological testing.

What Is a Therapist?

“Therapist” is a broad category that includes licensed professionals such as counselors, social workers, and marriage and family therapists that provide talk therapy. They do not prescribe medications.

Want to Learn More?

The Mental Health System Toolkit‍ ‍and the Mental Health System Toolkit: Providers Bundle‍ ‍provide a comprehensive overview of mental health providers, their roles, and other key players within the mental health system - including a detailed breakdown of credentials, licenses, and what the letters after a provider’s name actually mean. For an introduction on providers’ credentials, check out What Do The Letters After A Provider’s Name Mean?