Quick Answer: Psychologists typically hold a master’s or doctoral degree and can provide psychological testing and formal diagnoses, whilst Psychotherapists focus on talk therapy and emotional healing through various therapeutic approaches.
Choose a Psychologist if you need assessment or diagnosis; opt for a Psychotherapist for relationship issues, trauma processing, or personal growth work.
For medication needs, you’ll want a Psychiatrist who can prescribe alongside therapy.
Feeling overwhelmed by mental health titles? You’re not alone. Many people in Ireland find themselves confused when trying to understand the difference between Psychologists and Psychotherapists – and frankly, it’s no wonder. The landscape can seem bewildering when you’re already struggling with anxiety, relationship problems, or work stress.
The truth is, both professionals can provide excellent support for your mental health. But knowing which one might suit your specific needs can save you time, money, and the frustration of feeling like you’re not getting the right kind of help.
What Each Title Actually Means
Psychotherapist: The Conversation Specialist
Think of psychotherapy as a structured, purposeful conversation designed to help you process emotions and change patterns. A Psychotherapist could be a Counsellor, Social Worker, or other mental health professional who’s completed additional training in specific therapeutic approaches.
Psychotherapists typically focus on helping you understand why you feel stuck, process difficult emotions, and develop healthier ways of relating to yourself and others. Their work often involves exploring your past to understand present patterns – though not always. Some use very present-focused approaches.
Psychologist: The Science-Based Practitioner
Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes. Clinical and Counselling Psychologists apply this knowledge to help people, whilst others focus purely on research.
Practising Psychologists are trained in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and research methods, with some holding doctoral degrees (PhD, PsyD, or equivalent). They can administer psychological tests – those structured assessments you might have heard about for ADHD, learning difficulties, or personality disorders.
Where Psychiatrists Fit In
Assumption: This is basic medical hierarchy information – Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health. They can diagnose, prescribe medication, and often provide psychotherapy too. If you’re dealing with severe depression, bipolar disorder, or other conditions that might benefit from medication, a psychiatric consultation could be essential.
Key Differences at a Glance align tabs below
| Aspect | Psychologist | Psychotherapist |
| Education | Degree or Master’s, with some at doctoral level | Often a 4-year training at master’s level + specialised training* |
| Psychological Testing | Yes, can administer assessments | Generally no |
| Formal Diagnosis | Yes | Typically not |
| Typical Approach | Often assessment-led, evidence-based | Relationship and process-focused |
| Common Issues | Complex presentations, assessments needed | Emotional processing, relationship work |
| Cost | Often higher due to assessment capabilities | Variable |
*Varies depending on when a therapist entered the profession and the standards at that time. This is standard for therapists entering the profession now.
Training and Professional Standards
Here’s where things get interesting. In Ireland, the professional landscape has been evolving significantly. The number of those entering mental health professions has been steadily growing over the past 30 years. The fast development of this field has resulted in the requirements for level of training, qualifications and clinical experience to evolve, too.
Psychotherapist Training
Legitimate psychotherapist training now involves at least 4 years of study, supervised practice, and often personal therapy. Many Irish Psychotherapists work towards standards like the European Certificate of Psychotherapy through organisations like the Irish Council for Psychotherapy.
Source: Based on Irish Council for Psychotherapy standards
Psychology Education
Psychologists now typically complete extensive doctoral-level education including research methods, psychological assessment, and supervised clinical practice.
Current Regulation in Ireland (2025)
Important caveat: Regulatory information changes frequently – verify current status
CORU (the health and social care regulator) has been working to develop new standards for professional titles in Ireland. This includes establishing registration boards for both Psychologists and Counsellors/Psychotherapists.
When choosing a professional, check their credentials through:
- Irish Council for Psychotherapy registrant directory
- Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP)
- Psychological Society of Ireland membership
What They Can (and Can’t) Do
Diagnosis and Assessment
Psychologists are generally trained to provide formal diagnoses and psychological assessments. For Psychotherapists, diagnostic practice varies depending on their background and training.
Medication
Only medical doctors (including Psychiatrists) can prescribe medication in Ireland. Neither Psychologists nor Psychotherapists can prescribe – unless they also happen to be medical doctors.
Psychological Testing
Structured psychological assessments – think IQ tests, personality assessments, or ADHD evaluations – typically fall within Psychologists’ scope of practice.
Common Approaches and When to Use Them
Both Psychologists and Psychotherapists might use approaches like:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Great for anxiety, depression, and specific phobias
- Psychodynamic therapy: Helpful for understanding patterns and deep-rooted issues
- Humanistic approaches: Excellent for personal growth and self-acceptance
- Family/couples therapy: Essential for relationship difficulties
The key difference? Psychologists might combine these with formal assessments, whilst Psychotherapists often focus purely on the therapeutic relationship and process.
Typical Issues Each Professional Addresses
Psychotherapy Excels With:
- Relationship difficulties and communication problems
- Grief and loss processing
- Trauma recovery
- Understanding emotional patterns
- Life transitions and identity questions
Psychology Might Be Better For:
- When you need a formal diagnosis
- Complex mental health presentations requiring assessment
- Learning difficulties or ADHD evaluation
- When psychological testing would inform treatment
When to Consider a Psychiatrist:
- Severe symptoms impacting daily functioning
- When medication might be helpful
- Risk of self-harm
- Complex cases requiring medical oversight
Cost and Access Considerations
Important assumption: Cost information is highly variable and location-dependent
Generally speaking, psychological assessments may cost more due to the specialised training and time involved. However, ongoing therapy costs can vary widely based on the individual practitioner rather than their professional title.
Private practice is common for both. Some public services exist through the HSE, though waiting times can be significant. Check with your private health insurance – coverage varies dramatically between providers and policies, often depending on the accredited body that a therapist is registered with.
To find out if a therapist that you would like to work with is covered under your policy, call your insurance provider to enquire. They will be able to tell you if your specific policy will offer cover, how much cover can be offered and for how many sessions. For this, you may need to know the governing body that your therapist is accredited under.
How to Choose: A Practical Decision Guide
If you suspect you might have ADHD, need a learning difficulty assessment, or want a formal diagnosis to access certain supports, consider starting with a psychologist.
If you’re dealing with severe depression, thoughts of self-harm, or think medication might help, consult your GP first and discuss a psychiatric referral.
If you’re looking for someone to help you work through relationship issues, process difficult emotions, or understand patterns in your life, a Psychotherapist might be perfect.
But here’s the thing: there’s enormous overlap. Many Psychologists work from a talk-therapy approach and some Psychotherapists may have experience with complex presentations that might traditionally be seen by Psychologists.
When trying to find the right therapist for you, professional titles and specified qualifications will only get you so far. Research shows that personal connection is one of the most important factors for a successful therapeutic relationship.
In other words, don’t get bogged down in trying to understand which title is right for you. It is important, but it’s not everything: go with your gut, too. Can you imagine having a conversation with this person? Does the way they talk about their experience or approach resonate with you?
You are the expert in your own experience. While you may find it overwhelming at first, remember that you don’t have to find the answer right away. Take your time, do your research and trust your instinct. It might take some time, but you will find a good fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a psychologist also be a psychotherapist?
Absolutely. Many psychologists complete additional psychotherapy training and work primarily as therapists rather than assessors.
Do I need a referral?
For private practice, usually not. For public services, GP referral is often required. When in doubt, discuss with your GP – they can guide you towards appropriate services.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies enormously. Some people benefit from brief therapy (6-12 sessions), others engage in longer-term work spanning months or years. Your therapist should discuss this openly with you.
Therapy at Mind and Body Works: A Relational Approach
While there are some key differences between Psychologists and Psychotherapists, at Mind and Body Works, these differences are somewhat less defined.
We aim to provide therapists and clients with space to engage in a confidential, therapeutic relationship. Psychologists who work with us may use assessments or diagnoses as tools in their therapy practice, but the work that they do is predominantly relational: talk therapy that supports self-exploration, … This is similar to an approach more typical of a Psychotherapist.
For example, where a Psychotherapist may speak with you about feelings of depression, a Psychologist may assess that you have depression. From these distinct starting points, both practitioners will explore the individual’s experiences, emotions, and beliefs through the therapeutic relationship.
We Can Help at Mind & Body Works
Our team includes qualified professionals who can provide both psychotherapy and psychological services. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy using evidence-based approaches tailored to your specific needs.
When appropriate, we collaborate with GPs and Psychiatrists to ensure you receive comprehensive care. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, relationship difficulties, work stress, or life transitions, we’re here to support you.
Ready to take the next step? Book a confidential appointment to discuss your needs and find the right approach for you. All our services are available both in-person in Dublin, Galway and online throughout Ireland.