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Essay / Clinical Psychology: The Evolution of Clinical Psychology
School psychologists earn a master's degree and work in a school. While a clinical psychologist can work in various settings and hold a doctorate (Plante, 2011). Psychiatrists differ from a clinical psychologist in that they are doctors with a medical degree who have completed their residency in psychiatry. These professionals “use their medical training to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental illnesses” (Plante, 2011, p.24). Psychiatrists are medical doctors and can prescribe medications in all states, whereas psychologist can only legally prescribe in a few states. Social workers help individuals or families deal with problems, such as domestic or social problems. “Social workers focus primarily on case management, patient advocacy, and liaison with social service agencies and welfare benefits” (Plante, 2011, p. 25). The majority of social workers earn a bachelor's degree, although it is increasingly common to have a master's degree in this field.