When a person has a calling to be a psychologist or therapist, it is because they feel satisfaction in improving people's quality of life. Solving their clients' obstacles, guiding them, making them understand their feelings, etc. is what makes their lives happier.
Most of the time, making the decision to seek help or treatment to improve our mental health is left to doctors. There are different options, but The most common are to choose a psychologist or a therapist depending on the problem. that you want to address.
A therapist and a psychologist are not the same and have a few differences, however, They have the same goal: to improve people's lives.
What is a psychologist?
A psychologist is a professional who has a degree in psychologyand this allows them to dedicate themselves to different fields, such as labor, legal, educational, etc. They have a high level of training so a psychologist can carry out a treatment or work in different areas.
It is common that after finishing the studies they continue researching new treatments that are effective for patients. They are in continuous learning.
His job is to diagnose patients to determine, through an evaluation, which is the most appropriate treatment. They are also responsible for generate support to patients and orientation so that they can make decisions, clarify what their feelings are and why.
Sometimes they work in teams with educational psychologists or speech therapists and even with doctors, nutritionists or psychiatrists. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, psychiatrists can, so they are sometimes the key to completing certain treatments.
In addition, psychologists are registered by the Official College of Psychologists. They are required to compliance with a Code of Ethicsthis being a symbol of adequate praxis.
Therefore, their characteristics are:
- Have a psychology degreethat is, a high level of training.
- Give support and guide to his patients, helping them make decisions.
- Can working as a team with professionals such as educational psychologists, nutritionists, psychiatrists, doctors, etc.
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What is a therapist?
The term therapist It is used to cover social workers and a wide variety of counsellors.
It is defined as a professional who applies a treatment and It is not necessary to have an advanced level of education. A therapist can also be referred to professionals in other topics and not just in the field of mental health.
Their characteristics are:
- The term is used to refer to social workers and a variety of advisors.
- No They usually do research and No They need to have a level of study so advanced like psychologists.
- They provide support and guidance, but Its function varies according to its specialization and level of qualification.
- They are able to support people with emotional and mental disorders and can help them change behaviors that harm them, but They cannot diagnose or intervene.
Does a psychologist do therapy?
Psychologists too They are called psychotherapistsbut when they are called that it is because in that case is a psychology professional with a specialization in psychotherapy.
If the psychologist is not specialized, he cannot provide therapy.only psychological support sessions.
A psychologist and a therapist look after the well-being of others, but There are quite a few differences between them.
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