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What is Psychiatry & Psychology ?

 

Psychiatry and psychology are both fields focused on mental health, but they differ in training, approach, and treatment methods.

Psychiatry

  • Definition: A medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses.
  • Training: Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs or DOs) who complete medical school and then a residency in psychiatry.
  • Treatment: They can prescribe medication, provide psychotherapy, and may use other medical interventions. Psychiatrists often address the biological aspects of mental health conditions.

Psychology

  • Definition: The scientific study of behavior and mental processes, encompassing a wide range of topics from cognitive functions to social interactions.
  • Training: Psychologists typically hold a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology and undergo extensive training in research, assessment, and therapeutic techniques.
  • Treatment: They primarily provide psychotherapy and counseling, utilizing various therapeutic approaches, but they cannot prescribe medication (with some exceptions in certain jurisdictions).
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