When it comes to mental health treatment, there are several types of professionals who provide support—therapists, counselors, psychiatrists, and psychologists, among others. One of the most common questions people ask is: Can psychologists prescribe medication? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it depends on several factors, including the state or country you live in, the psychologist’s training, and local laws.
In this blog, we’ll explore the roles of psychologists, how they differ from psychiatrists, and under what circumstances psychologists may have the authority to prescribe medications.
What Is a Psychologist?
A psychologist is a trained mental health professional who typically holds a doctoral degree in psychology (Ph.D., Psy.D., or Ed.D.). Psychologists are experts in human behavior, cognition, emotion, and development. They use various forms of psychotherapy (like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and talk therapy) to help individuals deal with mental and emotional challenges.
Psychologists work in a wide range of settings, including private practices, hospitals, schools, universities, and research institutions. They are trained in psychological assessment and diagnosis, and they often administer psychological tests to evaluate mental health conditions.
Psychologists vs. Psychiatrists: What’s the Difference?
While psychologists and psychiatrists both work in the mental health field, their training and treatment methods differ significantly:
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Psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D. or D.O.) who specialize in mental health. They can prescribe medications, diagnose disorders, and offer psychotherapy.
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Psychologists, on the other hand, do not have medical degrees. While they are skilled in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, they generally do not prescribe medication—except in specific situations.
Can Psychologists Prescribe Medication?
The short answer is: In most states and countries, psychologists cannot prescribe medication. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Some jurisdictions have passed laws allowing prescriptive authority for psychologists who undergo additional education and training.
Where Can Psychologists Prescribe Medication?
As of now, five U.S. states and some federal territories allow qualified psychologists to prescribe medication:
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New Mexico
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Louisiana
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Illinois
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Iowa
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Idaho
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U.S. territories such as Guam and the U.S. military
In these locations, psychologists must complete additional education in clinical psychopharmacology and pass a national exam, such as the Psychopharmacology Exam for Psychologists (PEP). They also must work under the supervision of a medical doctor for a certain period before they are granted prescriptive authority.
What Training Is Required for Prescriptive Authority?
In states where psychologists can prescribe medication, the process is rigorous and extensive. A psychologist must:
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Have a doctoral degree in psychology.
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Obtain a master’s degree in clinical psychopharmacology.
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Complete supervised clinical training in medical settings.
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Pass the PEP exam administered by the APA’s College of Professional Psychology.
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Obtain a license or certification from the state’s medical or psychological board.
This training ensures that prescribing psychologists understand the biological bases of mental disorders and can safely manage medications used to treat them.
What Types of Medications Can Psychologists Prescribe?
Prescribing psychologists generally focus on psychotropic medications, which are drugs that affect mood, perception, or behavior. These include:
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Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs like fluoxetine)
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Antianxiety medications (e.g., buspirone)
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Mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium)
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Antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone)
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Stimulants for ADHD (e.g., methylphenidate)
However, psychologists are typically not authorized to prescribe controlled substances, such as benzodiazepines or opioids, unless the specific state law allows it.
Pros and Cons of Prescribing Psychologists
Pros:
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Increased access to care: In underserved areas where psychiatrists are scarce, prescribing psychologists can fill the gap.
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Holistic care: A psychologist who understands both therapy and medication can provide more integrated mental health treatment.
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Faster treatment: Patients may not have to wait weeks or months for a psychiatric appointment just to start medication.
Cons:
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Not medical doctors: Despite their training, psychologists may lack the broader medical background of psychiatrists.
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Scope limitations: Prescriptive authority is usually limited in scope and must follow strict guidelines.
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Potential confusion: Patients may not always understand the distinction between different types of mental health professionals.
What Should Patients Know?
If you’re seeking mental health treatment, it’s important to know who you’re working with and what services they can provide. Here are a few tips:
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Ask about credentials: Is your provider a psychologist, psychiatrist, therapist, or counselor?
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Understand the treatment plan: Does it involve therapy, medication, or both?
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Know the laws in your state: If you're in one of the states where psychologists can prescribe, ask about their qualifications and whether they hold a prescribing license.
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Collaborative care: Even if your psychologist can't prescribe, they may work closely with a psychiatrist or primary care doctor to ensure you receive comprehensive treatment.
Conclusion
While most psychologists cannot prescribe medication, a growing number of states and federal systems in the U.S. now allow specially trained psychologists to offer this service. These changes aim to improve access to mental health care, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Whether or not a psychologist can prescribe medication depends on where you live and the provider’s qualifications. If you're unsure about your treatment options, don’t hesitate to ask your mental health professional for clarity. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of different providers helps ensure you get the most appropriate and effective care for your mental health journey.
Check out our blog "Finding Hope and Healing Through Christian Counseling in Chicago"
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