Psychotherapy vs Psychology vs Psychiatry: What’s the difference?

By: Bossa Health

Mental health deserves the same attention as physical health. But when it comes to seeking support, many people aren’t sure where to start.

One of the most common sources of confusion? The difference between psychotherapy, psychology, and psychiatry. While these fields are closely related, they each play distinct roles in understanding and supporting mental wellbeing.

This guide will help you make sense of the differences and feel more confident about finding the right kind of help.

What is Psychotherapy? 🧠

Psychotherapy, also known as “talking therapy”, is a treatment designed to help people manage emotional challenges, mental health conditions, and life transitions. It goes beyond symptom management, often aiming to uncover the root causes of distress and build long-term resilience.

Psychotherapy can take place individually, in groups, with couples, or within families. It can also be combined with other treatments, such as medication, depending on the situation.

Types of psychotherapy include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Psychoanalytic and Psychodynamic Therapies

• Systemic and Family Therapy

• Arts, Play, and Integrative Therapies

• Humanistic and Experiential Approaches

  
  

Who provides psychotherapy?

Psychotherapists can come from different professional backgrounds, they might be psychiatrists, psychologists, counsellors, or other qualified mental health professionals who’ve completed specialist training.

What is Psychology? 🧩

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. Psychologists explore how we think, feel, and act — as individuals and within groups. They study everything from learning and memory to emotional development and social dynamics.

Not all psychologists work directly with patients, but many specialise in improving mental health and wellbeing.

Areas of psychology include:

• Clinical Psychology – assessing and supporting mental health conditions

• Counselling Psychology – helping people manage emotional challenges

• Health Psychology – linking physical and mental health

• Forensic Psychology – working within the legal and justice system

• Educational & Occupational Psychology – supporting learning and workplace wellbeing

Key distinction: Psychologists are not usually medical doctors, so they cannot prescribe medication. Instead, they focus on understanding human behaviour and developing effective, evidence-based interventions.

What is Psychiatry? 💊

Psychiatry is a branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health conditions. Psychiatrists are fully qualified doctors who specialise in mental health and can prescribe medication when needed.

Common reasons to see a psychiatrist include:

• Anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder

• PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders

• Schizophrenia and psychotic conditions

• Eating and sleep disorders

• Substance misuse and addictions

• Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease

Psychiatrists often work alongside psychologists and psychotherapists, combining medical treatment with psychological support for a more holistic approach to care.

How Bossa Health guides you 🌿

What's the best mental health treatment for you? We know this journey can feel overwhelming but you don’t need to figure it out alone.

At Bossa Health, we take the guesswork out of mental health care. When you complete our confidential mental health assessment, our triage team made up of mental health experts, analyse your responses carefully to understand your unique situation. Based on this, we guide you towards the most suitable type of treatment — whether that involves psychotherapy, psychological support, psychiatric care, or a combination of approaches.

Finding the right mental health support can feel overwhelming. We make it simple. Our mission is to provide clear, accessible, and stigma-free guidance, connecting you with the care that's right for your emotional wellbeing. Let us help you find your next step.

Take your mental health assessment today and let us guide you towards the care that’s right for you. 💚