| Aspect | Psychologist | Therapist |
|---|
| Required Credentials | Doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), licensure | Master's degree or higher, licensure or certification |
| Work Environment | Clinics, hospitals, private practice, schools | Private practice, clinics, community agencies |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Healthcare, mental health services, research | Counseling centers, mental health agencies, private practice |
Psychologists typically earn higher pay in the USA due to advanced degrees and extensive training. While both roles involve mental health support, psychologists often work in more specialized or research settings, which can influence salary differences. Therapists may have similar work environments but generally earn less than psychologists.