The Psychiatrist is a physician trained in the medical aspect of mental disorders and they differ from other mental health professionals in that they can prescribe medication. The Clinical Social Worker tends to view human behavior as a result of biological, psychological and social environmental factors. The Licensed Clinical Social Worker conducting Child Custody Evaluations should have diagnostic experience, training and experience working with children and families and if possible experience in a psychiatric setting. The Licensed Clinical Social Worker's education and training includes human growth and development, adult and child psychopathology and assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, adults and families, as well as an internship in a clinical setting. The American Psychological Association accredits programs in both schools of Psychology and education, though each State determines its own criteria for licensing.
Psychologists have training that is significantly different from other clinicians.
They are trained in the administration, scoring and interpretation of psychological tests. There are a wide variety of tests and inquiry should be made as to each psychologist's training and expertise in interpreting tests. There are a number of professionals who do not fall within the more traditional or common categories. Academicians who specialize in research such as child development. Most are affiliated with major teaching institutions and have likely published their findings in local peer review journals.