About
One should note the difference between a psychiatrist (Traditional Chinese: 精神科專科醫生) and a clinical psychologist (Traditional Chinese: 臨牀心理學家). A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders (i.e. behavioural, cognitive and/or emotional disorders), and can thus prescribe medications in treating such disorders - as well as to provide psychotherapy and other supportive counselling. A clinical psychologist is not a medical doctor - but a licensed mental health professional (who usually holds a Master's or Doctoral degree in clinical psychology) who specializes in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders. S/he may provide psychological evaluation, assessment, testing, and treatment, but may not prescribe medications.
The objectives of the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists are:
- to promote the study and advancement of the science and practice of psychiatry and ancillary sciences and branches of medicine;
- to further public education therein;
- to contribute to the improvement of mental health care for Hong Kong citizens through the provision of specially trained psychiatrists.
There are 4 categories of members: Fellow, Member, Inceptor and Affiliate. In May 2004, there were 168 Fellows, 64 Members, 96 Inceptors and 26 Affiliates.
Read more about this topic: Hong Kong College Of Psychiatrists