Table of Contents

Psychiatry vs. Psychology vs Therapy

Psychiatry is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. Psychiatrists (who are medical doctors) and psychiatric nurse practitioners may incorporate medications, talk therapy, and other treatments in their work with patients.

In contrast, psychologists hold doctoral degrees (PhD or PsyD) and specialize in psychological assessments, diagnosis, and psychotherapy but cannot prescribe medications. Therapists, such as licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), licensed professional counselors (LPCs), and licensed marriage and family therapists (MFTs), typically hold master’s degrees and also provide psychotherapy, diagnoses, and counseling to help individuals cope with emotional challenges.

Conditions That Can be Treated Through Psychiatry

  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Mood Disorders
  • Psychotic Disorders
  • Eating Disorders
  • Personality Disorders
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders, such as ADHD

Psychiatric Medication Management

Psychiatric medication management involves the careful prescribing, monitoring, and adjusting of medications used to treat mental health disorders. It plays a vital role in psychiatric care, requiring collaboration between the psychiatrist, the patient, and sometimes other healthcare providers.

Online Psychiatry

Patients who are unable to get into LifeStance’s mental health clinics may be able to receive prescriptions and manage their medication online.

Telepsychiatry allows psychiatrists to consult with patients and prescribe medications remotely via the internet. All that is required is a secure, reliable internet-connected device and a private space from which to conduct a session.

Consultations take place online via a teleconferencing interface and software provided by LifeStance. Our online psychiatry appointments are designed to protect patient privacy, and they aim to deliver all the benefits of our in-office sessions. Please note that some mental health conditions and medications may require periodic in-office evaluations.