I have always wanted to help others growing up, although only in High School did I realise what I want to help others with. My entire life has been a rough one (I won't be delving into the details, as it's not relevant), yet a fulfilling one where I have helped many people in various ways. Some mentally, some physically, some short-term, some long-term.
My most fulfilling experience has always been in helping others emotionally and observing their progress in their mental health journey. This has been a consistent experience since my first year of HS. As such, I have set my sights on a career which entails mental health support.
One of my biggest inspirations is, admittedly, Dr Alok Kanojia and how he handles his patients. I am fascinated by how his medical knowledge and insight into the human body can equip him with extensive knowledge within his private practice. He apparently focuses on psychotherapy and resorts to medicine as a last resort.
This is the type of mental health professional I want to become.
I am a fresh (Indonesian) high school graduate and am about to attend a Canadian university (on a scholarship) for a Cognitive Science degree, as it can lead to an MD (or so I've researched). I decided to attend a North American institution due to its research opportunities in mental health. I also plan to get my MD in North America for the same reasons.
Many have warned me of the risks and drawbacks of becoming a Psychiatrist rather than a Psychologist, such as heavier demands and a higher risk of burnout. Some have also told me that to do psychotherapy, a psychologist is much better suited to the type of service I wish to provide.
I am not sure what path to choose, though I am leaning towards psychiatry due to exposure bias.
TLDR: Incoming CogSci undergrad in Canada (from Indonesia) deciding between MD (Psychiatry) and PhD (Psychology). I want to primarily do psychotherapy with meds as a secondary tool, as well as with more insight into human biology. Looking for advice on which path fits best.
I'd like to hear thoughts and advice so that I can plan my timeline for the next 4 years of study, as well as preparations for the MCAT.