US Medical Term · mental-health
Psychologist
Psicólogo
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Psychologist |
| Spanish (Español) | Psicólogo |
| Chinese (中文) | 心理學家 |
| Korean (한국어) | 심리학자 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Nhà tâm lý học |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Psychologist |
| Portuguese (Português) | Psicólogo |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | นักจิตวิทยา |
| Japanese (日本語) | 心理士 |
What it means
A psychologist is a mental health professional who holds a doctoral degree (PhD, PsyD, or EdD) in psychology. Psychologists are trained in assessment, psychotherapy, and research. They conduct psychological testing and assessments to diagnose mental health conditions and learning disabilities, and they provide evidence-based therapy. In most US states, psychologists cannot prescribe medication — that remains the role of psychiatrists and primary care physicians, though a small number of states (such as Louisiana and New Mexico) allow specially trained psychologists to prescribe. Psychologists often work alongside psychiatrists in treatment teams. To see a psychologist, check that they are licensed in your state and in-network with your insurance plan.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I would like to see a psychologist for a psychological evaluation and talk therapy.
Me gustaría ver a un psicólogo para una evaluación psicológica y terapia de conversación.
My child's school recommended a psychological evaluation — can you refer us to a pediatric psychologist?
La escuela de mi hijo recomendó una evaluación psicológica — ¿puede referirnos a un psicólogo pediátrico?
Does my insurance cover psychological testing by a licensed psychologist?
¿Mi seguro cubre las pruebas psicológicas realizadas por un psicólogo licenciado?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026