Any difference between a psychologist and psychiatrist?if you have ocd, can you consult both?

OCD: U can consult either or both. The first one can perform psychotherapy & the second can prescribe medications/therapy.

Yes, different: A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (md or do) and can evaluate for medical conditions producing psychiatric symptoms -- plus prescribe medications and do psychotherapy. In practice, less of them actually provide psychotherapy these days. A psychologist does not have medical training, but is well trained in psychotherapy and psychological testing. Both professionals may be needed in your case.

OCD: Dr. Pappas provided great info. I see you are on anafranil (clomipramine). Medical care is largely mandated by managed care. As a result psychiatrists often evaluate & manage psychotropic medications. Psychologists, social workers or other forms of therapist often provide talking therapy. In this situation, doing your therapy with a provider who is experienced with cognitive behavioral therapy is a good idea.

Key= OCD Specialist: See pcp 2rule out any physical conditions. Then consult w/ psychiatrist or clinical psychologist specializing in ocd. Expert can help rule out other problems that may look like or accompany ocd. 2 ensure u get the right doc(s) & most effective treatment(s), research ocd & learn all u can about it. 2nd, learn effective treatments. Start w/the internat'l ocd foundation: httpl//www.Ocfoundation.Org.

Therapy vs meds: Speaking very generally, most psychologists hold either a PhD or a PsyD degree (I hold both) and practice psychotherapy. Psychiatrists hold either an MD or a DO degree, and they prescribe psychotropic medications, and generally do not do all that much therapy these days, but years ago psychiatrists would do both. If symptoms are severe, see the psychiatrist first.

A Clinical Psychologist is a Doctor of Psychology, a PhD. Please see a Clinical Psychologist with expertise in multiple types of psychotherapy to help you with your OCD issues and a Psychiatrist if you need medication.