|
|
|
|
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
A. A psychiatrist is a qualified medical doctor who has a further four years of training as a psychiatrist. As a physician, drugs can be prescribed.
A psychologist completes a bachelors degree in psychology, followed by Master's and Doctoral degrees (PH.D.) in clinical psychology. The doctoral degree includes a 12 month internship, typically in a hospital setting.
Practically, both psychiatrists and psychologists deal with most clinical issues; however, psychotic illnesses, which include schizophrenia and severe mood disorders are treated primarily by psychiatrists as medication is usually involved in therapy.
Please see the Therapy and Assessments pages for the areas of practice for psychologists.
Q. Who pays for psychological services?
A. Psychological services outside of hospitals, mental health centres and the school system are not covered by Provincial medical plans, such as MSP in British Columbia.
If the client does not have supplementary coverage for psychology through a separate plan he/she is responsible for payment of their treatment.
However, many people in Victoria, (Federal and Provincial Government employees, for example), may have full or partial coverage for psychological services through workplace Employee Assistant Plans.
Please visit the fees page for further information.
|
|
|
