The result is a professional that can understand the relationship between individual problems, family issues, and institutional and policy practices, and intervene at any of these levels. Clinical Social Workers are generally holistic in their approach to helping individials and families. Clinical Social Workers must pass a national board exam and apply for licensure to their state licensing body. Clinical Social Workers differ from Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists in important ways. Clinical Psychologists are trained specifically in psycho-therapeutic techniques and their strengths lie in testing, assessment, treating chronic mental illnesses.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors that have specialized in psychological illnesses.
Psychiatrists can prescribe medication, do diagnostic testing, and provide therapy. Generally, psychiatrists are considered to be experts about medications related to mental health issues. Clinical Social Workers, Clinical Psychologists, and Psychiatrists can work together in and compliment each other's strengths as part of a muti-disciplinary team. How to access services and deal with government agencies. My spouse and I are considering divorce but are concerned about the kids.