Mental issues have become increasingly common in this day and age. It could be due to the change in people’s lifestyles and the use of technology beyond boundaries. The exact reasons for the rise of mental health issues among people are yet to be concluded.

Speaking of mental health issues, the first things that comes to mind is seeking help. Who do those affect seek help from? Two types of professions come into mind when speaking of treating those suffering from mental health issues: psychiatrists and psychologists. However, there are significant differences between the two professions. Identifying these differences is vital to know which one to consult depending on the circumstances.

What is psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind, emotions, and behavior. The process involves extensive study on understanding brain functions, mental processes, behavior, and their link to each other. There are many different branches in psychology including the following:

Clinical Psychology

Cognitive Psychology

Development Psychology

Decision Science

Intellectual and Development Disabilities

Social Psychology

Quantitative Psychology

The role of a psychologist

A psychologist is a registered health professional qualified and trained in human behavior. Some psychologists study further to become specialized in psychology areas like clinical psychology, neuropsychology, community, organizational, forensic, and sports and exercise psychology. Psychologists typically work in hospitals, community health services, schools, prisons, courts, businesses, and private practices. They provide mental health services to people of all ages including children, teenager, adults, seniors, and families.

To practice as a psychologist in Australia you must be registered with the Australia Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Career as a psychologist

Psychology is a rewarding career that is demand that comes with a lot of benefits. It is also a profession that gives you the satisfaction of dealing with different people and personalities and examining their behavior and outlook towards society.

Psychologists work in close relationships with clients to diagnose and treat psychological conditions and challenges. It is a people-centered career that works towards helping people their current circumstances and observe how the mind influences human behavior.

Psychology is a highly-regulated field in Australia, which requires all practicing psychologists must be registered with the Psychology Board of Australia.

Salary scale of a psychologist

The average annual salary of a clinical psychologist is $110,798 or $56.82. An entry-level psychology position will have a starting annual salary of $105,158 while more experienced psychologists can earn an annual salary of $130,000.

Here are the average annual salaries of psychology-related professions:

Clinical psychologist: $110,798

Psychologist: $102,074

Therapist: $89,113

What is psychiatry?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have studies medicine and have the relevant qualifications required for medical practice. A psychiatrist is a medical professional who has completed specialized training in psychiatry. A psychiatrist is responsible for diagnosing, treating, and preventing emotional, mental, and behavioral disorders in people.

Psychiatrists work using a combination of treatments that may include psychotherapy, counselling, and medication such as antidepressants. Psychiatrists can admit patients to hospitals depending on the circumstances, requirements, and condition of the patient.

The role of a psychiatrist

Psychiatrists treat the following mental health conditions:

Anxiety disorders

Severe depression

Panic attacks

Bipolar disorder

Schizophrenia

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Eating disorders

Phobias

The key responsibilities of a psychiatrist is as follows:

Prevent, diagnose, treat, and monitor mental health conditions.

Administer medication and oversee patient’s overall mental health condition and the effects of medication.

Provide expert advice regarding a patient’s mental wellbeing and provide information to the patient’s support system.

Psychotherapy types and treatments

Psychotherapy types are as follows:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Psychodynamic therapy

Psychoanalysis

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)

Experiential therapy

Psychiatry treatments include the following:

Psychotherapy

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

Prescription medication including antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and anti-anxiety tablets

Light therapy

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

Psychological interventions

Career as a psychiatrist

Psychiatrists work in different environments including clinics, community health services, hospitals, universities, research centers, government departments, and private practice. Psychiatrists must be registered with the AHPRA to practice in Australia. Some psychiatrists are registered with Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP), although it’s not mandatory.

Psychiatrists are required to complete a medical degree to become a doctor and must work in a hospital for a minimum of 12 months. After that, he must apply for a medical specialization in psychiatry.

Salary scale of a psychologist

A fully-qualified psychiatrist can earn an average annual salary of $125,476. Below are the salary scales depending on the number of years of experience.

Experience of less than a year: $70561

Experience of 1 to 4 years: $84396

Experience of 5 to 9 years: $134204

Experience of 10 to 19 years: $140430

Experience of above 20 years: $136279

The difference between psychology and psychiatry

The main difference between a psychologist and psychiatrist is that the former is a medical doctor while the latter is not. A psychologist can prescribe medication and admit patients to hospital while a psychologist cannot do these tasks.

However, both psychiatrists and psychologists are trained to understand how the human brain works and analyze behavioral patterns. Both these professionals use various types of psychotherapy and counselling to help. They can help people develop better ways of thinking and behaving.

When to see a psychologist?

People go to psychologists when they have less severe mental health issues that impact their lifestyle. People must see a psychologist for the following:

When experiencing depression, anxiety, or stressful life events or other mental health issues.

When feeling life is difficult and need support to cope with life events.

When in need of a mental health assessment of oneself.

When to see a psychiatrist?

People consult psychiatrists in the following instances:

When the mental health condition is severe.

When other treatments are not working.

When the condition lasts for a long time.

When the condition is recurring.

When the doctor recommends to consult a psychiatrist.

When considering suicide or any other form of self-harm.

Working together

Psychologists and psychiatrists are often seen working together. It starts off with a psychiatrist initially assessing the patient and diagnosing the condition. After that, he refers the patient to a psychologist for further ongoing treatment that involves talking therapy. Psychologists and psychiatrists also work together in hospitals, forming a part of the mental health team.

If a patient is in doubt about whether to see a psychologist or psychiatrist, he should first talk to his general physician (GP). A GP will be able to assess and analyze the situation and condition and recommend whether to see a psychologist or psychiatrist.

Medfuture has been a healthcare recruitment agency for a long time. We have a strong professional network that has enabled us to connect patients with the top mental health professionals across all states and suburbs in Australia.

Visit our website for the latest psychologist and psychiatrist jobs in Australia. We provide high-paying jobs to mental health professionals in Australia.

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10 Best Practices in Psychology Today

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for Psychologists