What's the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

   During my psychology studies, many of my friends asked me what is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist? I was always trying to explain that there are significant differences between these two professions.

     But, what’s the truth? Are you crazy if you go and ask psychologist for help? Do you or your friends know what is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
Where I come from and where I live, many people are scared to go and see a therapist, or to start a therapy, usually because the general opinion about therapy is that only the crazy people need it, so unless you are really crazy and should be institutionalized, you should steer away from therapy. That way of thinking has lead people to be afraid of what others would say and think of them if they ever do visit a therapist.
Maybe this question sounds easy and you might think the answer is simple as well, but it goes much deeper than it seems, but it is not. Nevertheless, it's really important to know the differences whether you are a student of psychology or a consumer searching for a mental health provider.

   So in short, I will try and explain them to you. The first difference is:

• Education and training  
The simplest answer of this question lies in the educational background required for each profession. A psychiatrist has a degree in medicine and a psychologist has a doctoral-level degree in psychology.
Psychologists receive graduate training in psychology. Doctorate programs can take four to seven years to complete and most states require an additional one or two year long internship in order to gain licensure. Other states require an additional year or two of supervised practice before granting full licensure. The title of "psychologist" can only be used by an individual who has completed the above education, training, and state licensure. Informal titles such as "counselor" or "therapist" are often used as well.
Psychiatrists have specific training in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses. Students first earn an undergraduate degree before they attend medical school and receive an M.D. After that, they also complete an additional four years of training in mental health. Some also receive additional training in a specific area.

• Prescribing medications
  According to psychology.about.com, a second important distinction between the two careers is that psychiatrists can prescribe medications, while in most countries psychologists cannot.

    But, what is (a) psychologist? What (do) they do?

    Psychologist is someone who studies the mind and behavior. They work with people who suffering from mental disorders or psychological distress. They often work in hospitals, mental health clinics, schools, government offices, or private practices. Other psychologist work like research psychologist or applied psychologist (ex.engineering psychologist, industrial-organizational psychologists, and human factors psychologists).

    Where can YOU find a psychologist?

  If you are looking for a psychologist there are a few different ways to accomplish this. You can contact your local hospital and ask for a referral. This method can be a highly effective way of finding good psychologists in your community. A second approach is to ask trusted friends or family members who they would recommend.

  So, now you know what the difference is between a psychologist and a psychiatrist.
And now, if you are dealing with some problems, please don’t be scared and shy. Be brave to stand up and ask for help, because sometimes we just can't do it alone.