Understanding the Difference Between a Psychologist and Psychiatrist

If you’ve been exploring mental health support options, you may be wondering: What does a psychiatrist do, and how are they different from a psychologist?

At The Three Seas Psychology, we understand this confusion is common, and we’re here to help clarify.

A Psychiatrist Is a Medical Doctor

A psychiatrist is a qualified medical doctor who has completed additional specialist training in psychiatry, the branch of medicine that focuses on mental health. This means that unlike psychologists, psychiatrists are able to:

• Diagnose mental health conditions with consideration of physical health factors

• Prescribe medication

• Offer medical advice related to your symptoms

• Monitor and manage side effects of medication

• Refer for further testing if needed

Psychologist vs Psychiatrist: What’s the Difference?

The difference between a psychologist and psychiatrist largely comes down to training and treatment focus:

• Psychologists are trained in talk therapy (e.g., CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy) and focus on thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.

• Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and manage more complex mental health conditions with a biological and pharmacological focus.

In many cases, individuals benefit from a combination of both: medication prescribed by a psychiatrist, alongside therapy with a psychologist.

When Should You See a Psychiatrist?

While many people benefit from therapy alone, you may want to consider seeing a psychiatrist if:

• You’re experiencing severe or persistent symptoms like suicidal thoughts, insomnia, hallucinations, or panic attacks.

• You’ve tried therapy but haven’t seen significant improvement after several months.

• You’ve previously been prescribed medication for a mental health condition.

• You have a family history of complex or severe mental illness.

• Your mental health symptoms are accompanied by physical symptoms, like nausea or elevated blood pressure.

• Others have expressed concern about your wellbeing or changes in behaviour.

Psychiatrists can play a critical role in stabilising symptoms so that therapy becomes more effective.

What to Expect from a Psychiatrist

Modern psychiatrists typically focus on assessment, diagnosis, and medication management. However, some may also provide talk therapy or collaborate with your psychologist. During a psychiatric consultation, you can expect:

• A discussion of your mental and physical health history

• Exploration of treatment options, including medication

• Support for managing side effects

• Recommendations around lifestyle factors (diet, sleep, exercise)

• Collaboration with your GP or therapist to ensure continuity of care

Questions to Ask a Psychiatrist

Choosing the right mental health professional is important. Consider asking:

• Have you treated people with similar concerns to mine?

• Do you also offer counselling, or only medication support?

• How do you decide which medication to prescribe?

• What happens if I experience side effects or don’t respond well?

• How do you work with other providers like psychologists or GPs?

• How long do you anticipate I’ll need to stay in treatment?

Psychiatry at The Three Seas

At The Three Seas, we believe in a collaborative and holistic approach to mental health care. While Dr William Soo, our psychiatrist, is not currently accepting new clients, our team includes highly trained psychologists who can assess whether a psychiatric referral may benefit your situation.

We offer psychiatry-informed support for conditions such as:

• Anxiety and Depression

• ADHD

• Bipolar Disorder

• Trauma-Related Disorders

• Psychosis and Mood Disorders

Our psychologists can also work with your psychiatrist to ensure your care is well-integrated.

Local Psychiatric Support in Melbourne

If you are searching for a psychiatrist in Melbourne or want to understand more about the difference between a psychologist and psychiatrist, we’re here to guide you.

We also accept clients with Medicare referrals, and can help you navigate rebates and care options.

Access Care In-Person or Via Telehealth

Whether you prefer to see someone face-to-face in Melbourne or access care via Telehealth, our team is ready to support your journey to improved mental health.