Different Types of Psychologists to Prescribe Medications to

Calgary Psychologists prescribe medicine, psychiatrists cannot. The differences between the two professions are as clear as the differences between x-ray technicians and physicians. Psychologists diagnose disorder, treat specific psychological illness and offer a wide range of treatments for more serious and complex mental disorder. Psychologists specialize in psychiatric practice, going beyond family therapy and counseling and carrying out research as well as teaching.

As a clinical psychologist, a psychologist treats patients through a structured diagnosis-developmental, cognitive-behavioral, or psychodynamic process. The process includes the collection of information that leads to a mental disorder diagnosis. In order for a psychologist to evaluate someone he must have knowledge of the symptoms of the disorder as well as the person’s personality and history. A psychologist who diagnoses someone must be aware of the person’s motivation and other important diagnostic factors such as history of abuse, functioning in social settings, and medications taken. A psychologist can only diagnose the disorder if he has collected adequate data and encountered enough symptoms over time.

Unlike medical doctors, psychiatrists can treat the patient in a more personal manner. Psychotherapy is one way they do this, although some psychiatrists use medication and prescription drugs. Most psychiatrists follow a medication schedule, which usually means they prescribe medications at regular intervals during the course of the day, week or month. Some psychiatrists also use hypnotherapy to treat their patients.

Many psychiatrists specialize in one area of psychiatry such as human behavioural therapy, psychodynamic therapy or counselling. These forms of psychiatric treatment are used exclusively by psychiatrists who specialise in a particular type of disorder. They can be specialists in anxiety disorders, bipolar or depression, schizophrenia or even Post-traumatic Stress Disorders. Some psychiatrists work closely with psychologists and other health care providers to provide comprehensive treatments for all types of patients.

Psychiatrists can choose between using medication alone or along with therapy. Some psychiatrists choose to use medication and therapy as a combination treatment approach to treat their patients. Some psychiatrists with additional training in geriatric psychiatry choose to use medication and counseling combined with cognitive behavioural therapy to treat their patients. The medications used for these patients can be similar to those used for treating people with anxiety disorders, bipolar or depression.

The medications used to treat anxiety and depressive disorders are commonly prescribed on a weekly basis. Some psychiatrists however, are now prescribing medications to be taken on a daily basis. There are many types of medications that can be used to treat depression and anxiety. The most common are monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like wasocarbons (Imitrex), alosetron (Zantac), nortriptyline (Paroxetine), perphenazine (Prozac), selegiline (desipramine), tricyclic antidepressants (TCA), and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medications have different effects on the brain and can help to calm the patient, improve mood and reduce anxiety. Depending on the drug taken, patients can be treated for their depressive and anxiety disorder for months instead of years.

Another great choice of psychiatrist to prescribe medications to a patient suffering from anxiety and/or depression is a social worker. The advantage to choosing this type of professional when it comes to helping someone suffer from these disorders is that they received training in social work in either a graduate school or through employment. A social worker can help the client understand the illness better and can also work with the patient on implementing effective strategies for coping with the disorder. The social worker will likely require extensive schooling on these and other topics to be well-qualified to treat patients with these types of illnesses. If you feel you would make a good psychologist or social worker, check with your state’s licensing boards for the position.

You may be wondering, what makes a good psychologist? In general, most psychiatrists specialize in one of two areas: clinical or forensic psychology. Clinical psychology deals with the human mind and its disorders. Forensic psychology deals with crimes, including murder, suicide, sexual assault, and others. Many psychiatrists choose to specialize in either one of these areas, but all have their pros and cons. The best choice is dependent on the needs of the individual and the desired effects they want to achieve.