With the growing awareness around mental health and well-being, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start.
Mental health care is more accessible than ever, but there’s a lot of therapy lingo that can be confusing, especially for people who are just starting their mental health journey. A big part of that lies in where to start, or rather who to start that journey with. Many people unknowingly use the terms “therapist” and “psychiatrist” interchangeably, but there are distinct differences between the two.
Brittney Moses, a mental health advocate and speaker, shared some insightful perspectives on the difference between therapists and psychiatrists, and how to know which one is right for you.
Understanding the Basics
First, let’s break it down: therapists and psychiatrists both play essential roles in mental health, but their focus areas differ. Therapists, often referred to as counselors, psychologists or social workers, provide talk therapy. This is where the heavy lifting of understanding your emotions, thoughts, behaviors and life patterns takes place. On the other hand, psychiatrists are medical doctors who primarily focus on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, often through medication.
As Moses explains, “Therapists are trained to be understanding and empathetic and to be able to adjust to what’s working and what’s not working.” They help clients explore personal issues and develop coping strategies. If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or life transitions, a therapist could be your first step.
But if you’re facing more complex conditions, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or severe depression, or if you think medication might be necessary, a psychiatrist is likely the better option.
Mental health care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your journey may require a blend of talk therapy and medication.
“In knowing your own health and wanting to be responsible with your own health, you have the autonomy to seek a second and even third perspective,” Moses says, “You have the right to advocate for yourself.”
When to See a Therapist
If you’re unsure where to begin, therapy is often a good starting point. Therapists can guide you through common life stressors, provide emotional support, and help you develop strategies for managing your mental health.
Moses advises giving the process time: “It’s going to take some time to build that therapeutic relationship, what we call a therapeutic alliance…Give it at least a few sessions, and pay attention to if they are also paying attention to what your needs are.”
Therapists are particularly helpful when you’re dealing with emotional challenges, whether they be work-related stress, relational issues or just feeling stuck. They are trained to listen deeply and help you explore your thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental way.
And remember, if therapy doesn’t feel like a good fit after a few sessions, don’t hesitate to find someone who is a better match for you.
When to See a Psychiatrist
So, when do you need a psychiatrist? If you’re experiencing more severe mental health symptoms that significantly disrupt your day-to-day life, such as persistent sadness, extreme mood swings, or irrational fears, you may benefit from seeing a psychiatrist. This is especially true if you think you might need medication.
A psychiatrist can evaluate you from a medical standpoint and prescribe medications that can help regulate brain chemistry. However, medication alone isn’t always the solution.
Moses encourages a holistic approach: “You can advocate for yourself, and you have the autonomy to seek a second or even third perspective.” Medication is often used in conjunction with therapy to help address both the physical and emotional aspects of mental health.
Should You See a Christian Therapist?
For those in the Christian faith, a common question is whether or not they should see a Christian therapist or psychiatrist. Some worry that a secular therapist may not understand or respect their faith, while others feel it’s important to have a counselor who shares their religious values.
Moses believes that while it can be helpful to see a therapist who shares your faith, it’s not always necessary. “When people do get the right treatment and when people do find the right support, then they do see relief and realize life can feel different than what it does right now,” she says.
What’s most important is finding someone who can support your mental health journey, whether they share your specific beliefs or not.
However, if faith is a significant part of your life, it might be worth seeking a Christian counselor who integrates faith into therapy. Many people find comfort in knowing their counselor not only respects their beliefs but can offer spiritual guidance alongside mental health support. “There is a very clear biblical case for staying grounded and for having boundaries to be of better help to others,” Moses adds. She suggests that being spiritually, mentally and emotionally healthy is crucial to living a balanced Christian life.
The Bottom Line: You Deserve Support
One of Moses’ core messages is that everyone is worthy of support. Whether you need a therapist or a psychiatrist, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. “I think we need to continue to remind people that they’re worthy of support,” she explains. Too often, people think they must carry their burdens alone, but the truth is that professional help can provide relief.
The decision of whether to see a therapist or psychiatrist doesn’t need to be a lifelong commitment. Many people find they benefit from seeing both at different stages of their lives. Moses’ advice is simple: listen to yourself. “Get into the practice of paying attention to what works for you. When you are doing these things, what does help you feel better from the inside out?”
If you’re unsure where to start, consider what you’re struggling with. Are you dealing with emotional stress, anxiety or difficult life transitions? A therapist may be your best bet. Do you feel like you need more than talk therapy, perhaps medication or a more medical approach to mental health? A psychiatrist could be the next step.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and seek the help you deserve. Life can feel different with the right support system in place, and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether through talk therapy, medication or a combination of both, relief is possible. And as Moses reminds us, “When you are grounded mentally, spiritually and emotionally, you are in a better position to help others.”
