A range of mental health support services are available, but the two you’ll commonly hear about are psychologists and psychiatrists. There is crossover between these services, but the core difference is a psychiatrist has trained as a medical doctor and can prescribe medication and admit you to hospital.2 A psychologist is not a medical doctor and cannot do this.
Psychiatrists are typically used for more severe conditions that require medication, although they can also make use of counselling and psychotherapy. On the other hand, psychologists are experts in human behaviour who can treat mental illnesses with psychotherapy, and also help you with life challenges like grief, domestic violence, financial stress and more.
To get psychiatric care, you’ll most likely need a referral from a GP or another medical professional. For psychology services a referral isn’t necessary, although your doctor may be able to recommend a psychologist that specialises in the mental health issues you are experiencing or give you a mental health treatment plan.