What is a psychologist?

Psychologists are regulated health professionals capable of diagnosing, assessing, and treating psychological and mental health conditions.

A psychologist holds a master’s and/or doctoral degree in psychology, involving six to ten years of university study exploring how people think, feel, and behave.

Psychologists may specialize in specific sub-fields such as behavioral psychology, clinical psychology, child psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, industrial psychology, or neuropsychology.

A psychologist may:

– Assess clients’ psychological needs
– Provide treatment through individual counseling, group therapy, or other techniques
– Utilize standard psychological tests for assessment
– Develop intervention programs and conduct program evaluations

 

Is a referral necessary to consult with a psychologist on Laso MD?
No, a referral is not required to see a psychologist on Laso MD. Follow the instructions above to book an appointment and begin your sessions today.

 

What distinguishes a psychiatrist, psychologist, and psychotherapist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors with specialized training in mental health and psychiatric disorders. They undergo additional training and licensing to diagnose and treat mental illnesses, addressing both the physical and mental health aspects, and have the authority to prescribe medications.

On the other hand, psychologists and psychotherapists are not medical doctors. They hold special degrees in their fields that allow them to assess and treat certain mental illnesses.

Psychologists typically emphasize cognitive-behavioral therapy and other behavioral strategies, while psychotherapists often concentrate on talk therapy. Neither psychologists nor psychotherapists have the authority to prescribe medications.

 

How can a psychologist assist me?

Individuals seek the help of a psychologist for various reasons, including:

Loss – Grief related to the loss of a friend, loved one, or loss of life due to natural disasters or conflicts
Stress and anxiety – Coping with stress and anxiety that hinders you from fully enjoying life
Depression – Persistent sadness and a lack of motivation that hinder your ability to live life to its fullest
Phobias – Overcoming fears that interfere with your daily routine
Family and relationships – Addressing prolonged arguments, parenting decisions, balancing home and work-life, or dealing with separation from family
Habits and addictions – Managing uncontrollable habits that affect personal well-being and the well-being of those around you
Performance enhancement – Overcoming the fear of not meeting expected task performance levels
Lack of mental clarity – Improving focus and overcoming difficulties that hinder day-to-day success

 

I’m having my initial session with an online psychologist. What can I anticipate?

In your first consultation, you have the freedom to choose any topic you’d like to discuss with the psychologist. The psychologist will then collect information about your background and history to thoroughly assess your concerns and develop a treatment plan.

 

Is it possible for a psychologist to prescribe medication?
Psychologists cannot prescribe medications, as they do not hold medical doctor qualifications. Your treatment may involve talk therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other communication-based methods.

 

How many sessions are typically needed with a psychologist?
The number of sessions required with a psychologist varies based on individual needs and reasons for seeking therapy. Your psychologist will collaborate with you to create an action plan tailored to your specific requirements, but it’s common for at least five sessions to be recommended.

 

What is Laso MD?
Laso MD is a healthcare application designed for easy access to Canadian-licensed doctors. All you need to do is log in, schedule an appointment, and connect with the doctor on the day of your consultation through live audio or video. For more information, you can visit our How it works page.