It’s a common point of confusion, are psychologists doctors, and can they prescribe medication?
In Australia, psychologists are highly trained health professionals, but they are not medical doctors and they do not prescribe medication. Their expertise is in assessment and therapy, helping you understand your thoughts, emotions and behaviour, and supporting you to build the skills and insight that lead to long‑term change.
Psychologists complete an accredited sequence of university study and supervised practice before registration with the national health regulator. Many pursue postgraduate training at the Master’s or Doctoral level, and some undertake a registrar program to gain endorsement in a specialty area such as clinical psychology. This training focuses on the science of how people think, feel and behave, how difficulties develop and are maintained, and which therapeutic approaches are most effective for different concerns.
Medical prescribing is a different pathway. Psychiatrists and general practitioners are medical doctors; they study medicine, complete hospital training, and are authorised to prescribe and manage medications. When you work with a psychologist, the focus is on non‑pharmacological treatment, approaches like cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy skills, interpersonal therapy, and trauma‑focused care. These methods help you build tools you can keep using long after therapy finishes.
There isn’t a single right answer for everyone. Some people prefer to start with therapy because they want to understand patterns and build skills without side effects. Others benefit from a combined approach, particularly when symptoms are severe or persistent. In that case, psychologists work closely with GPs and psychiatrists so that your care is coordinated whereas child psychologists may take a different approach. With your consent, we can provide progress updates, share treatment goals, and keep everyone on the same page.
If you are curious about medication, your first step is usually a conversation with your GP. They can review your history, consider options, and, if appropriate, discuss a referral to a psychiatrist. Your psychologist can help you prepare for that appointment by clarifying your goals and questions, and by noticing how symptoms change across time, sleep, stress and routines. Good collaborative care treats you as a whole person and respects your preferences.
It is also worth mentioning the title “doctor.” Some psychologists complete a research PhD or a professional doctorate. They may use the honorific “Dr,” but they are not medical doctors and that title does not grant prescribing rights. The important thing to look for is registration and, where relevant, endorsement. You can always ask about a clinician’s training and approach; a good psychologist will welcome the question.
If your main concerns are emotional, cognitive or behavioural, worry, low mood, stress, relationship patterns, habits, trauma, parenting or identity, seeing a psychologist is a strong first step. If you are experiencing severe symptoms that may require medical review, such as significant changes in appetite, weight or sleep, psychotic symptoms, or complex interactions between health conditions and mood, your GP may suggest a psychiatrist as part of your care team.
Ultimately, psychologists and medical doctors do different but complementary work. Psychologists help you make sense of your experience, process what hurts, and build tools for the future. Doctors assess your physical health, monitor the effects of medication, and manage the medical aspects of mental health. When these pieces work together, you get comprehensive care that supports both your body and your mind.
If you’re unsure where to begin, start with a conversation. We can help you map the options, choose a path that fits your values, and adjust as you go. The goal is not labels, it is feeling better, functioning more smoothly, and living a life that makes sense to you.
