When a child is struggling with anxiety, mood, attention or behavior, parents often wonder who to call first. Both psychologists and psychiatrists help, but they just approach care differently.
Therapists and psychologists
Licensed mental health practitioners and psychologists focus on talk therapy and skill-building, including approaches like CBT and DBT that help kids understand feelings, manage stress and change patterns. They don't prescribe medication.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who diagnose mental health conditions and can prescribe and manage medication. They're often involved when symptoms are severe, complex or haven't improved with therapy alone.
SRMC Behavioral Health offers in-person therapy for kids, teens and families, and monthly telepsychiatry for ages 6–17 with Dr. Nicholas Basalay through our partnership with Boys Town. Call 308-254-8736.
Related care at SRMC
Behavioral Health
