2 answers
amanda
Student
West Frankfort, Illinois
3
Questions
Updated
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What does it take to become a licensed Psychiatrists?
How much college and training does it take to become a licensed Psychiatrist? What type of work do you do as a psychiatrist? What is the best way to approach this type of work? should you have a compassionate heart. What are some things to look forward to in the career?
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2 answers
Dr. Reeta K
Psychologist
10
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
Dr. Reeta’s Answer
Psychiatrists are medical doctors that have specialized in psychiatry. So to become a psychiatrist, you have to go to medical school and then complete residency. To be a licensed psychologist, you go to graduate school (PsyD or PhD) and then go through the licensure process.
Psychiatrists mostly prescribe medication and seldom do therapy, but psychologists focus on clinical work. They conduct therapy, do mental health evaluations, complete psychological testing, and sometimes do research (if you've gone for your PhD in research psychology).
Your best next step is to do a bit more research about the differences between psychiatrists and psychologists and then look into the difference between a PsyD and a PhD, then you'll get a better sense of which path is more interesting to you :)
Psychiatrists mostly prescribe medication and seldom do therapy, but psychologists focus on clinical work. They conduct therapy, do mental health evaluations, complete psychological testing, and sometimes do research (if you've gone for your PhD in research psychology).
Your best next step is to do a bit more research about the differences between psychiatrists and psychologists and then look into the difference between a PsyD and a PhD, then you'll get a better sense of which path is more interesting to you :)
I appreciate your support, Dr. Reeta
Trenity
Laone Letshwao
Student
1
Answer
Gaborone, South-East District, Botswana
Updated
Laone’s Answer
After high school, aspiring psychiatrists must earn a bachelor's degree, which usually takes four years. This is followed by four years of medical school and then a four-year residency program. Some psychiatrists also complete fellowship programs for additional training.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Trenity
Hi Laone: Your advice is insightful. My nephew is in his first year residency as a Psychiatrist, and the steps you've outlined are on point. Thank you for sharing.
Sheila Jordan