If you are struggling with mental health issues and are looking for relief, chances are you have heard of the top three specialists in the mental health field: psychologist, counsellor, and psychiatrist.
Individuals often use the terms counsellor and psychologist interchangeably or psychiatrist and psychologist interchangeably. When it comes to treatment for mental health problems, these three specialists are the most commonly sought out. So when you are seeking a psychologist near you, it is helpful to understand which professional is best for your needs.
Certified or Registered Counsellors
Counsellors provide a service known as psychotherapy. Psychotherapy focuses on helping you heal and learn more constructive methods to deal with the issues you are experiencing in life. Often individuals seek out counsellors when they are going through a challenging time in their lives, such as starting a new career or going through a separation. Typically, sessions are one hour long.
To become a counsellor, one must obtain both an undergraduate degree and a Master’s degree.
Psychologists
If you seek psychologist counselling near you, you are likely searching for a registered psychologist. Typically psychologists hold a doctoral degree, but in some provinces, such as Alberta and Saskatchewan, psychologists only require a Master’s degree and to have passed a qualifying exam and a substantial amount of supervised clinical counselling experience.
Psychologists are qualified to evaluate and treat diagnosed mental health concerns. Psychologists provide psychologist counselling in Calgary as well as provide assessments and diagnoses of mental health disorders. Typically, sessions are one hour long.
Psychiatrists
The only certified mental health professionals that can provide psychology services near you and prescribe medication to treat mental health disorders are psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are medical doctors and hold a doctorate in medicine. They are qualified to assess, diagnose, and prescribe medical treatments for mental health disorders. Often, psychiatrists use psychotropic medications to treat mental health disorders. Psychotropic medications include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers.
Psychiatrists will also perform psychotherapy as a treatment option and will not prescribe medication unless they deem it necessary for your overall well-being. A typical session with a psychiatrist is around ninety minutes.
Tips for Choosing a Mental Health Professional
When seeking a mental health professional, be clear on your intentions for seeking treatment. If you want a formal diagnosis or want medication, a psychiatrist or psychologist may be best for your needs. If you are looking for someone to help you reframe your thoughts, a counsellor could be adequate for your needs.
When searching for a mental health professional, ask about their credentials, experience, and specializations. Some mental health professionals are specialized in certain areas, such as trauma healing.
Don’t settle for the first mental health professional you find. If you notice that your mental health professional isn’t meeting your needs, meet with some other ones until you find the right fit for you.
Visit Prevail Psychology
No one should struggle alone. Your mental health is as important as your physical health regarding daily functioning and overall happiness. If you are struggling with your mental health, please visit Prevail Psychology. Our team is dedicated to your overall well-being, and if you are looking for a mental health professional, we will work with you to find the best professional for your needs. Please get in touch with our clinic to book a consultation today.