Primary Care Doctors
Your general doctor may be the first person you see to access care. They can:- Recommend a behavioral health provider such as a therapist, counselor, psychiatrist, etc.
- Prescribe and monitor medication
- Monitor your progress and follow up over time
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists have medical degrees (MD) and specific training in mental health conditions. They can:- Assess your symptoms to make an informed diagnosis
- Assess the need for medication
- Prescribe and monitor medication
- Provide psychotherapy
Licensed Counselors, Therapist, and Social Workers
All three of these providers have a master's degree (MS), a doctorate (Ph.D.), or another type of graduate-level certification. They have completed an internship and one (or more) years of supervised practice. They can:- Assess your symptoms to make an informed diagnosis
- Provide talk therapy (also known as counseling)
- Offer specialized counseling, such as family or marriage therapy
Psychologists
Psychologists have a master's degree (MS) or a doctorate (Ph.D./PsyD) in psychology. They are not medical doctors nor can they prescribe medication (in most cases). However, they can:- Assess your symptoms to make an informed diagnosis
- Provide talk therapy (also known as counseling)
- Conduct psychological testing
- Refer you to a psychiatrist for medication
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners
Psychiatric nurses are register nurses (RN) that also have graduate-level education in mental health. They can:- Assess psychiatric conditions
- Prescribe and monitor medication
- Follow up with medication management and coordination of care
