A Psychiatrist first trained as a doctor and then specialised in psychiatry. Therefore they are experts in the filed of major mental illnesses and can prescribe medication for these. Because they are also a doctor they can bulk-bill under Medicare. However, in general they only have limited training in ‘talking therapies’.
A Clinical Psychologist knows a lot about medications but is not allowed to prescribe them. They are taught to try and fix problems without the help of medication (or work together with the psychiatrist to get you back on track). In this sense they only use ‘talking’ in order to help, or will give you exercises to do to get better.
What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Clinical Psychologist?
A Clinical Psychologist is more qualified than a Psychologist, as they have done further study. A Clinical Psychologist is usually trained in psychiatry and may know more about abnormal behavior and how to treat it. Also some health funds will only cover Clinical psychologists.
