Psychotherapy vs Psychology - What's the difference?

Mental health terms can be a bit confusing, especially when figuring out which ones fit certain professions. When it comes to psychotherapy vs psychology, put simply, a psychotherapist is a mental health professional who provides the significant service of psychotherapy (talk therapy), whereas a psychologist requires a higher level of education since (in most cases, licensed psychologists must hold doctoral degrees) and uses research and lab work within their practice. In a nutshell, psychotherapists specialise in the art of “talking it out” to enhance their patients’ mental health and create a relationship where they feel safe and understood, displaying empathy and practicing essential listening skills.  

Similarities between Psychotherapy and Psychology

Before we chat more about the differences of what a psychotherapist may provide which differs from the services of a psychologist, let’s nut out the similarities. Psychologists and psychotherapists may both:

• Offer talk therapy services to both individuals and groups.

• Support patients in enhancing their mental health and overall wellbeing.

• Provide treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.

• Hold a graduate degree as a prerequisite for practice.

• Obtain state-specific licensure to legally practice.

• Employ expert listening skills, empathy, and creativity to assist patients effectively.

Differences between Psychotherapy and Psychology

Now, let's get to how psychotherapy and psychology are unique to one another. As highlighted previously, becoming a psychologist requires mental health professionals to complete more studies unlike practicing psychotherapy. You’ll find more differences between the two below: 

• Clinical and counselling psychologists are required to complete a doctoral degree, while psychotherapists only need a master’s degree.

• Psychologists often engage in academic research and laboratory work, whereas psychotherapists primarily focus on providing talk therapy to clients.

• Psychotherapists are more likely than clinical psychologists to specialize in talk therapy.

• Clinical psychologists are trained to conduct assessments and provide complex diagnoses, while psychotherapists typically diagnose and treat broader mental health conditions.

• Both clinical psychologists and psychotherapists may use various approaches to mental health treatment, depending on their specialty, degree, or training.

So, what next? 

Let’s create a safe space that’ll regulate your mind and body - together, through the practice of psychotherapy by talking it all out. Click button below to contact me.