What is the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist and social worker, and how do I know which professional I need to see?
Psychiatrists are doctors who have specialist training in psychiatry, the study of mental disorders. A psychologist is a mental health professional with a university degree in psychology. The psychologist’s role may involve psychological assessment,
counselling or psychotherapy, but not prescription of medication. Social Workers are health professionals with a degree in social work. A social worker helps individuals and their families deal with various problems which arises from coping with a difficulty, illness, or admission to hospital. They cannot prescribe medication.
It may be best to consult your GP or a mental health intake team before deciding which type of mental health professional to see.