Who are Psychologists?

Psychologists are medical professionals who specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses of an individual. They study normal and abnormal mental states, individual perceptions, cognition, emotional and social behavior by observing, interpreting, and recording how an individual relates to their surrounding environment and to other people.

What qualifications do Psychologists have?

A 3-year bachelor’s degree [B.A./BSc.] is the basic requirement for an individual to be a Psychologist. Additionally, the following are the specialties or extra qualifications required to be a Psychologist:

• MA - Applied Psychology
• M.Phil - Psycho-Oncology
• M.Phil - Psycho-Oncology
• M.Phil - Psycho-Oncology
• MA - Counselling Children and Young People
• MA - Clinical Psychology
• Masters in Clinical Psychology
• Professional Diploma in Clinical Psychology
• PhD - Clinical Psychology
• M.Phil- Medical & Social Psychology
• PsyD (Doctorate in Clinical Psychology)
• PhD - Psychology
• MD - Applied Psychology
• Post Graduate in Clinical Psychology
• MS - Clinical Psychology
• Doctor of Psychology
• Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy
• DPM (Psychiatry)
• M.Phil - Clinical Psychology
• MSc - Clinical Psychology
• MA - Psychology

Are Psychologists and Psychiatrists the same?

Psychologists are medical professionals who focus on assessing a patient by his/her behavioral changes due to mental disorders. They treat people with conditions that can be helped effectively with psychological treatments like psychotherapy(talk therapy), cognitive behavioral therapy, and counseling. This might include behavioral problems, learning difficulties, depression, and anxiety. Psychiatrists, on the other hand, are medical professionals who are trained and authorized to diagnose and treat mental health conditions by prescribing medication and lifestyle modifications and provide therapies for complex and serious mental illnesses. 

When should an individual consult a Psychologist?

Individuals suffering from any of the following medical conditions can consult a Psychologist:

• Stress and anxiety
• Mood disorder
• Depression
• Dementia
• Phobias
• Addictions
• Bipolar disorder
• Panic disorder
• Personality disorders
• Eating disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorders [PTSD]
• Psychotic disorders such as Schizophrenia
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder [OCD]

How can an individual consult a Psychologist?

An individual can consult a Psychologist either online or offline. However, depending on the availability of the doctor and the convenience of the patient, pre-booking may be required for consultation.

How often should I visit a Psychologist?

It is recommended to consult a Psychologist once every year to get an update on one’s mental health. In case a person has an existing mental health issue or condition, it is advised to have regular follow-ups with the Psychologist.