The terms “psychologist” and “therapist” are often used interchangeably, but there are some differences between the two professions.
A psychologist is a mental health professional who holds a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology. They have completed extensive training in psychological assessment, research, and therapy and  are qualified to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health issues and psychological disorders. They may specialize in various areas, such as clinical psychology, counseling psychology, neuropsychology, or industrial-organizational psychology, and can conduct  psychological evaluations and research studies.
The term “therapist” is a broader, more general term that can refer to various mental health professionals, including psychologists, counselors, social workers, and marriage and family therapists. Therapists may have different educational backgrounds and credentials, such as a Master’s degree (e.g., M.A., M.S., M.Ed.) or a Doctorate (e.g., Ph.D., Psy.D., Ed.D.), depending on their specific profession and licensing requirements.
They provide talk therapy or psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families, or groups to address emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges.
There are several scenarios where it may be more appropriate to see a psychologist rather than a therapist or a psychiatrist:
Psychological Testing & Evaluation: If you need a formal psychological assessment or testing for diagnostic purposes, a psychologist is the most suitable professional. Psychologists are trained to administer and interpret various psychological tests, such as ADHD testing, psychological testing and evaluation, and neuropsychological tests.
2. Complex Mental Health Issues: For more severe or complex mental health issues, a psychologist may be a better choice. Psychologists are equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of psychological disorders and conditions using evidence-based interventions and therapeutic techniques.
3. Specialized Therapy: Psychologists often have specialized training in specific therapeutic approaches or modalities. If you require a particular type of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), a psychologist with expertise in that area would be best suited to provide it.
4. Psychological Consultation: In some cases, individuals, organizations, or institutions seek psychological consultation for various reasons, such as conflict resolution, team dynamics, or organizational psychology. Psychologists are trained to provide expert advice and consultation in these areas.
5. Educational or Vocational Guidance: If you are facing educational or vocational challenges, such as career counseling, educational planning, or school-related issues, a psychologist with expertise in educational psychology can be beneficial.