If you are concerned about your mental health you may be wondering what type of professional would be of the best help to you. The terms “therapist” and “psychiatrist” are common, though that doesn’t mean that everyone knows what they mean. Finding the type of mental health professional that fits you is important for your recovery. Many choose to see both, let’s explore the similarities and differences to help you decide where to start!

In What Ways are They Similar?

• Similar Goals: Therapists and psychiatric professionals (psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants and psychiatric nurse practitioners) all work for the same outcome. They want to help you feel better and improve the quality of your life. Treatment involves treating your symptoms and feeling like the best version of yourself.
• Extensive Knowledge About Mental Health: Therapists and psychiatric professionals are licensed and receive extensive training. Both are able to assess, diagnose and help you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. 
• Pivotal in Recovery: Psychiatric professionals and therapists can help you to find relief from your symptoms. They can help you start or continue your journey to recovery. 

What is a Psychiatric Professional?

A psychiatric professional can refer to anyone who is trained and licensed to treat mental health conditions through medication management. This umbrella term covers psychiatrists, psychiatric physician assistants and psychiatric nurse practitioners. These licensed providers are able to assess, diagnose and treat your symptoms through the use of medications. 

Many psychiatric professionals are holistic in their approaches, exploring additional avenues besides medication management to treat your symptoms. Preventative medicine can make a world of difference and many psychiatric professionals acknowledge this in their practice. 

What is a Therapist?

The term is a large umbrella of trained, licensed professionals. The term “therapist” can apply to psychologists, social workers, counselors and marriage and family therapists.These providers are also skilled in assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of mental health diagnoses and concerns. 

Therapists can also help you to learn invaluable skills that can improve the quality of your life. These skills can include but are not limited to; assertiveness skills, communication skills, mindfulness skills, distress tolerance skills, interpersonal skills, emotion regulation skills, conflict resolutions skills etc. 

What Do You Need?

This is the million dollar question. Everyone is different and has different needs. There truly isn’t a wrong place to start as both therapists and psychiatric professionals can be exceptional. They can also make additional recommendations to best fit your needs. 

Many benefit from a combination of therapy and medication management while some find they prefer one over the other. The important thing is that you address your needs and focus on your wellness. Carolina Counseling Services in Fayetteville, NC contracts with skilled, licensed providers who can help. Call today to get started!