There is often a misconception that psychiatry and psychology are the same disciplines of Anxiety Disorders. In truth, however, there are many significant differences between these medical specialties. Yes, there certainly are some overlaps. However, this is not to say that psychiatrists and psychologists can’t help with treating mental illness and anxiety disorders.
Psychologists can provide psychological assistance to those who suffer from mental illness and anxiety disorders. This is because psychologists are trained to assess and identify psychological issues. They can then help their patients find productive ways to deal with their symptoms. When a patient is suffering from extreme anxiety and depression, for instance, a psychiatrist may have to prescribe anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medication in order to help treat the symptoms of their mental illnesses.
On the other hand, psychiatrists can’t provide the type of psychological assistance that a psychologist can. This is because unlike psychologists, a psychiatrist may require specialized training to diagnose their patients with mental illnesses and disorders. Therefore, psychiatrists will require an advanced degree in psychiatric practice. The requirements to obtain a doctorate degree in psychiatry are strict. Only those psychiatrists who have exceptional academic performances and outstanding professional accomplishments may be considered for this highly sought-after academic title.
In addition to doctorate degrees, other specialized training is needed in order to treat mental illnesses and disorders. These professionals need to complete at least a master’s degree. In addition to being required to complete advanced clinical practice training, psychiatrists also must obtain additional education in order to obtain their doctoral degrees. A doctoral degree is most commonly awarded to psychiatrists who have obtained their doctorate degrees and worked for several years in clinical practice.
In order to become licensed as a psychiatrist in the United States, one of two tests is required. One method is based on the American Board of Psychiatry and the other is based on the Professional Competence Examination for psychiatrists (the PEAS). These two examinations must be passed before a qualified psychiatrist can practice legally in the United States. This process requires rigorous testing, which only a few psychiatrists who earned their doctorate degrees in psychiatry have been able to pass.
When evaluating a patient, a psychiatrist will use several different methods to help determine the severity of a mental disorder. For example, a psychiatrist may use the Emotional Intelligence Theory to help them determine if a patient is suffering from a mild or severe disorder. The Clinical Manifestations Test can also be used in order to assess mental health professionals. In addition, several psychoanalysts, including both psychiatrists and psychologists, use the Personality Assessment Test to help them diagnose patients. Each type of test has its own purpose and there are a number of different tests available in order to choose the one that is most appropriate for your needs.
In order to treat patients who suffer from either general depression or anxiety, a psychiatrist will most likely utilize various types of medications. SSRIs, which are particularly effective at treating depression and anxiety, and have been shown to be safe for long term use, can be prescribed. If these medications are not effective, a psychiatrist may recommend anti-depressants or other forms of cognitive behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy is often very effective at changing self-destructive behavior patterns that lead to depression and anxiety, but because of the strong psychological components of this disorder, it can also be difficult to treat on an ongoing basis.
Many psychiatrists who prefer cognitive behavioral therapy choose to add the Weis-Ganzett method to their treatment regimens. This method uses a series of thirty-step programs that have been proven to help people eliminate negative thoughts and behaviors that lead to depression and anxiety. Some of the more common steps used in the Weis-Ganzett Process include: Relaxation, Exposure, Expulsion, Removal, Monitoring, Reflection, Action and Contemplation.