Psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor? Who to see in India
Three professions, often confused. What each one does, how they're trained in India, and how to choose.
When you or someone you love needs help, the first question is often: who do I even go to? Here's a simple guide.
Psychiatrist
A medical doctor (MBBS) who has specialised in psychiatry (MD, DNB or DPM). Psychiatrists diagnose mental illness, can prescribe medicine and often combine it with therapy. See one when symptoms are severe, when medicine may help, or when there are physical health questions too.
Clinical psychologist
Trained in assessing and treating mental health conditions with talking therapies and psychological tests. In India, clinical psychologists are registered with the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), and the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 recognises them as mental health professionals. They don't prescribe medicine.
Counsellor
Helps with everyday challenges such as stress, exams, career choices, relationships and adjusting to change, mostly through conversation. Training varies a lot, so it's worth asking about qualifications and experience.
How to choose
- Everyday stress or a big decision: a counsellor is a good start.
- Persistent low mood, anxiety, trauma or behaviour changes: a clinical psychologist.
- Severe symptoms, thoughts of self-harm, or when medicine may be needed: a psychiatrist (or go to a hospital emergency).
They often work together. Starting with any of them is better than not starting at all.
Sources
- Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI). rehabcouncil.nic.in
- The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 (Act No. 10 of 2017), Government of India. India Code. www.indiacode.nic.in
- Indian Psychiatric Society. indianpsychiatricsociety.org
This article is for general education and isn't medical advice. If you're worried about your mental health, please speak to a qualified professional. In India, Tele-MANAS (14416) is free and open 24×7.