| Aspect | Psychiatrist | Psychologist |
|---|
| Credentials | Medical degree (MD or DO), psychiatric residency, medical license | Doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), state licensing or certification |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, clinics, private practice, hospitals | Private practice, schools, research, hospitals |
| Scope of Practice | Diagnose and treat mental illnesses, prescribe medication | Psychotherapy, psychological testing, research |
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and treat mental health conditions with a combination of medication and therapy. Psychologists focus on therapy, assessments, and research but cannot prescribe medication in most states. Both roles are essential in mental health care but serve different functions based on their training and scope of practice.