psychologist visit

[filthiestfis]

is it possible to see a psychologist via a referral from a GP? is it expensive to see one? Hmmm actually what is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

[mazzywoo]

In some cases, your GP can refer you to a psychologist-mine did. I saw a psychologist for cognitive therapy and luckily for me, she was based at our GP's surgery. I think that the difference between Psychiatrists and psychologists are as follows. Psychiatry is mainly concerned with treating things like depression, anxiety schizophrenia etc with medication and other types of treatment, in other words they treat the illness but psychology deals with the way your mind works and their treatment consists of ways to change the way people think and this will help with their mood. Anyway, thats how I think they differ-I might be wrong and if so, I'm sure someone will put me right! Best wishes, M x

[janeo]

Psychiatrists are qualified doctors, psychologists aren't .

[Pisceangirl]

I'm pretty sure you can see a psychologist through a GP referal and almost positive it is on the NHS. Mazzywoo is right about the differences...basically a psychiatrist is a doctor of psychology and has the power to prescribe medication to treat mental illnesses. Psychologists often use cognitive therapies to encourage the patient to find the root of the problems and change their ways of reacting to situations and their emotions. They will not normally deal with serious mental illnesses and can not prescribe medication. A psychiatrist will be able to prescribe drugs (Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors(antidepressants) for depression etc) but may be less likely to try conitive therapy with you- which in the long run may be more beneficial. I'm sure your GP will be able to ascertain whether you should see a psyhchiatrist or a psychologist. Good luck whatever happens! :)