What do therapists’ credentials mean?

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What do therapists’ credentials mean?

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September 18, 2020

A psychotherapist is a general term that covers any licensed mental health professional. These licensed professionals are broken down into the following groups of education and licensure:

Ph.D. - A Doctorate in Psychology with training in clinical work (talk therapy) as well as testing and research protocols.

Psy.D. - A Doctorate in Psychology with a focus on clinical work (talk therapy).

Psychiatrist - A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) having attended 4 years of medical school followed by a residency. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication. While some psychiatrists provide psychotherapy services, they are more likely to understand your feelings and behaviors through the lens of regulating brain activity.

LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) - Achieved a Masters Degree in Social Work with a focus in clinical work (talk therapy) and can help patients find and obtain resources they need to improve or maintain a healthy lifestyle.

LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) - Achieved a Masters Degree in Social Work with a focus in Marriage and Family Therapy.

LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) - Achieved a Masters Degree in Social Work with a focus in clinical work (talk therapy).

LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) - Achieved a Masters Degree in Counseling with a focus in clinical work (talk therapy).