Difference between a Psychiatrist Psychologist

Psychologists and psychiatrists both specialize in human behavior and mental conditions. A psychiatrist has a degree in medicine and receives graduate training in psychology and pursues either a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in clinical or counseling psychology. A psychologist has a doctoral-level degree in psychology and are physicians to have specific training in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses. Another important distinction between the two careers is that psychiatrists can prescribe medication, while psychologists cannot. Although psychologists cannot prescribe like a psychiatrist can, they also have specialized training in treating patients and dealing with various situations. As of 2009, the yearly income potential for a psychologist is about $64,000. The income potential for a psychiatrist starts around $150,000.