When you are looking for mental health help, the different job titles can be confusing. This guide explains who is who, in plain terms, and how to choose where to start.
What a psychologist does
A psychologist is trained in the science of the mind and behaviour, and in talking therapies. Clinical psychologists assess mental health conditions and treat them mainly with structured therapies such as CBT. In most settings, psychologists do not prescribe medicine. They are often the right choice for talking therapy and for psychological assessment.
What a psychiatrist does
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has gone on to specialise in mental health. Because they are doctors, they can prescribe and manage medication, look for physical causes of symptoms, and treat more severe or complex conditions. Many psychiatrists also offer or arrange talking therapy. They are often the right choice when medication is likely to be needed, or for conditions such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Counsellors and other professionals
Several other trained people help with mental health. Counsellors and psychotherapists provide talking support and therapy, often for difficulties such as stress, grief, relationships, and mild to moderate anxiety or low mood. Psychiatric nurses, social workers, and trained community health workers also play important roles, especially where specialists are few. The right person depends on the problem, not on the grandest title.
Who to see for what
As a simple guide: for talking therapy and psychological assessment, a psychologist or counsellor is often the place to start. Where medication may be needed, or for severe or complex conditions, a psychiatrist is the right choice. Many people see more than one, for example a psychiatrist for medication and a psychologist or counsellor for therapy, working together. A general doctor or clinic is also a good first step and can refer you on.
The picture in Kenya and the region
Across the region, mental health specialists are few and often based in cities, so the realistic path to help frequently begins with a general clinic, a counsellor, or a trained community health worker, who can support you and refer you onward when needed. In Kenya, the practice of counsellors and psychologists is regulated by the Counsellors and Psychologists Board, established under Act No. 14 of 2014, while psychiatrists are registered as medical doctors. Checking that a professional is properly registered is a reasonable and sensible thing to do.
Where to start
You do not need to have the title figured out before reaching out. Our find a therapist and Get Support pages can help you take a first step, and the person you see can guide you to the right kind of help from there.
Sources
- Republic of Kenya. (2014). The Counsellors and Psychologists Act, No. 14 of 2014.
- World Health Organization. (2016). mhGAP Intervention Guide for mental, neurological and substance use disorders in non-specialized health settings (version 2.0).