Psychiatry, Psychology and Psychotherapy - Understanding the Differences Between Each… From a Toronto Psychotherapist
Psychotherapy, wherever you are!
As a psychotherapist, I find that clients often come to me not entirely understanding the variations of psychiatry, psychotherapy and psychology. I’m passionate about taking the time to really educate you on the nuances of each so that you can make the most fully informed decision!
At the end of the day, only you will know what’s best for you! But let’s begin by diving into the basics of each….
PSYCHIATRY
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental, emotional, and behavioural disorders.
A Psychiatrist can prescribe medication as a treatment for mental illnesses or disturbances.
PSYCHOLOGY
A Psychologist is trained to assess and diagnose problems in thinking, feeling and behaviour.
A Psychologist is uniquely trained to conduct psychological testing to assess and diagnose mental health issues.
PSYCHOTHERAPY
Psychotherapy, sometimes called talk therapy, is treating emotional and personal issues that involve a talking relationship between a therapist and client.
A Psychotherapist can use a variety of therapeutic tools to support their clients in overcoming their personal challenges.
STILL NOT SURE WHO CAN HELP?
HOW PSYCHOTHERAPY CAN HELP
As I mentioned in the beginning, ultimately, only you will know what approach is best for you! As a psychotherapist, let me tell you more about that form of therapy and its approach…
It can help you instill positive changes in your thoughts and behaviours... Working together with a psychotherapist can bring about positive change in how you think, feel, behave and function socially. If you have thoughts, feelings, moods and behaviours that are adversely affecting your day-to-day life, relationships and your ability to enjoy life, psychotherapy might be right for you. Therapy can also help you with issues that are hard to face alone.
It can help you overcome barriers to your well-being… Working with a therapist can also help you increase positive feelings, such as self-esteem. Throughout therapy, you can learn skills and tools for handling challenging situations, making healthy decisions and reaching personal goals. Though challenging, many people find that they enjoy the therapeutic process of becoming more self-aware.
It can help you overcome an issue causing distress or interfering with your daily life... Distress can manifest in many ways. Negative thoughts, negative feelings, maladaptive behaviours, fatigue or even physical symptoms such as pain can indicate distress. If you feel unhappy, overwhelmed and hopeless regarding issues in your life, it may be best to seek therapy.
Psychotherapy can support you through a myriad of challenges… depending on what you’re currently experiencing. Some reasons you may want to speak with a psychotherapist are…
You find yourself struggling with the same issues over and over again
You want to face life’s challenges in a more effective and calm manner
You feel stuck or trapped in patterns of thought or behaviour that no longer serve you well
You feel anxious, exhausted, frustrated, angry or sad
You have gone through or are going through a significant life change
You feel your life is being negatively affected by past experiences
You have lost a loved one
You are going through a difficult breakup or are struggling in an unhealthy relationship
You want to improve your relationships
You want to understand yourself better
You want to know how to communicate your thoughts and feelings more effectively
Your mental health is interfering with your physical health or vice versa
You want to maintain your mental health
Did this bring you the clarity you were needing about which sort of therapist will be best for you? If you’re still stuck, you can check out this great resource that helps you identify which is right for you!
I’m Natasha Batshon, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Nutritionist offering support both in-person in Toronto, and virtually (wherever you are!)
My practice can support you through anxiety, depression, stress management, low self-esteem, career and education stress, work/life balance, relationship issues, trauma healing, loss and grief, phobias, sleep or insomnia, mindfulness, or a loss of a sense of purpose. I’m multidisciplinary in my approach, meaning I don’t offer just one form of therapy. Instead, I like to combine the most beautiful elements of what each has to offer. Some of the therapeutic techniques I draw on are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy.
Not sure if it’s right for you? Book a free consultation and we will get to know each other and assess if virtual therapy is right for you!
P.S. While I am a registered psychotherapist, please note that this blog post is for informational purposes, and does not contain specific psychotherapeutic advice. If you feel you need psychotherapeutic support, please contact me.