Can Therapists Prescribe Medication?

What you will learn

• A therapist cannot prescribe medication, but can offer non-pharmacological treatments such as therapy (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy) for mental health conditions.
• Psychiatrists, mental health nurse practitioners, primary care physicians, and physician assistants can all prescribe medication.
• A psychiatrist differs from a therapist because they are medical doctors who hold an MD or DO degree and are specifically trained in mental health care..
• A therapist has to be licensed to practice therapy, but does not need a medical degree.
• Some individuals undergo both therapy and medication simultaneously, especially when they have a complex or severe mental health condition.

It’s estimated that nearly 40 million Americans take medication for a mental health condition [1].

But many people are unclear whether their therapists can prescribe their medication or if they need to seek treatment from another provider.

This is especially true when they are getting help from a therapist for a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety. Professional mental health treatment in New Jersey offers clarity about what your healthcare providers are authorized to do and what they are not. Get a clear understanding of all treatments and processes from reliable and knowledgeable professionals, ensuring you receive the proper care for your condition.

A therapist can not prescribe medication. This is because prescribing medication is usually reserved for licensed medical doctors, such as psychiatrists. Therapists generally focus on counseling and other services, not medication.

What is the Role of a Therapist?

While therapists cannot provide medication, they can provide other beneficial mental health services. A therapist is a mental health professional trained to provide therapy (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy) and help individuals manage mental health conditions.[2]

A therapist provides a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their problems, emotions, and mental health issues through therapeutic techniques. They also develop treatment plans and teach coping skills to manage stress. Suppose you visit a therapist and they believe you may benefit from medication. In that case, they will typically refer you to a psychiatrist or primary care physician who can do a thorough evaluation. If that doctor agrees with the therapist, then the proper medication will be prescribed.

Can a Psychotherapist Prescribe Medication?

A psychotherapist, like other therapists, cannot prescribe medication, but they can provide psychotherapy and counseling services to treat mental health conditions.

Which Mental Health Pros Can Prescribe Medication?

Since typical therapists and psychotherapists are not allowed to prescribe medication, it’s important to know which mental health professionals can. If you believe you may need medication to treat your condition, the following medical professionals can prescribe medication: [3]

• Psychiatrist
• Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist
• Primary Care Physician
• Physician’s Assistant
• Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

In some states, nurse practitioners can also prescribe medication.

Therapists vs. Psychiatrists: How are They Different?

Distinguishing what sets psychiatrists apart from therapists will help you choose the right healthcare provider for your mental health issues.

Psychiatrist Training & Education

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders, using both psychotherapy and medications.

Psychiatrists complete their residency in psychiatry, which typically lasts 4 years after 4 years of medical school.

While completing their residency, psychiatrists dive deep into mental health disorders, learning how to treat symptoms using talk therapy, medication, or other means. After completing their residency, they have to take written and oral exams from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. If they pass, they get the label of being board-certified. This certification needs to be renewed every 10 years.

Therapist Training & Education

A therapist refers to a wide range of mental health providers who have received training in one or more types of therapy. This can include, but is not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, and more.

Most therapists have to be licensed to practice therapy and treat patients. But, they do not have to go to medical school or receive their doctoral degree. They typically carry different credentials depending on their specific practice.

Where do Psychologists Fall?

When you’re talking about therapists and psychiatrists, you may also hear people refer to psychologists.

A psychologist carries a doctoral degree in psychology. [4] They provide therapy and other mental health care to patients. They are trained to evaluate a person’s mental health and diagnose them. They cannot prescribe medicine.

While psychologists are therapists, not all therapists are psychologists. Psychologists typically hold a doctoral degree in psychology, whereas other therapists may have a master’s degree or other qualifications. This is due to the medical training they have received. Psychologists have received additional training that therapists have not. Regardless of which one you may see, neither one can prescribe medication.

What about Other Types of Therapists?

There are also clinical social workers who carry a master’s degree in clinical social work and have a license in therapy services.

A counselor can also provide therapy services. They have a master’s degree in counseling and are licensed to provide therapy services as long as they complete a predetermined set of pre-license hours. Counselors can be licensed as mental health counselors, professional counselors, or another type.

When to Get Medication for a Mental Health Condition

If you feel as though you need medication for a mental health condition, start with your primary care physician or a psychiatrist. They can assess you and recommend whether you should see a psychiatrist or other healthcare professional for your mental health concerns.

Some mental health conditions can mimic the symptoms of physical illnesses, and it’s important for healthcare providers to rule out medical conditions before diagnosing a mental health disorder. It’s important for your doctor to first rule out any physical illnesses. If they determine that your symptoms are not related to a physical illness, your doctor can refer you to someone else.

Your primary care physician will likely refer you to a psychiatrist or a mental health professional with specialized training in mental health conditions.

What Types of Medication Can Treat Mental Health Conditions?

There are a variety of medications that can be prescribed to treat mental health conditions.

These include: [5]

• Antidepressants
• Anti-anxiety medications
• Stimulants
• Antipsychotic medications
• Mood stabilizing drugs

Your mental health professional will determine which type of medication will best treat your condition or if other methods of symptom management are a better fit.

Find the Right Mental Health Treatment

If you believe you or a loved one is suffering from a mental illness, it’s important to seek the appropriate treatment. Whether you need therapy or medication or both, finding the right treatment will help you live a happier and healthier life.

Amanda is a prolific medical content writer specializing in eating disorders and addiction treatment. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Purdue University with a B.S. in Social Work. Read more