Psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist: who does what?

The short answer

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in mental health and can prescribe medication. A psychologist usually has a doctorate (PhD or PsyD), provides therapy and psychological testing, and generally can't prescribe. Licensed counselors (LPC), clinical social workers (LCSW) and marriage and family therapists (LMFT) hold master's degrees and provide therapy. “Therapist” is the umbrella most of them answer to, which is convenient for everyone except the person trying to hire one.

Who can prescribe

Psychiatrists, other physicians including primary care doctors, and psychiatric nurse practitioners can prescribe psychiatric medication. Psychologists can prescribe only in a handful of U.S. states, and only with additional training. Everyone else can recommend you ask a prescriber, which is the professional version of “have you tried talking to your doctor?”

Titles that mean less than they sound

Licensed professions have protected titles and state boards that can take the license away. “Life coach,” “wellness guide” and, in many places, plain “therapist” are not consistently regulated, so almost anyone can use them. A good rule: if the title comes with a license number, it comes with accountability. If it comes with a discount code, check again.

How to pick

For medication or complex symptoms, start with a psychiatrist or your primary care doctor. For therapy, any licensed therapist with the right training and fit can help. You can look up a license on your state licensing board's website. In a mental health crisis in the U.S., call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, any time.