Psychologists may have a Ph.D., Psy.D. or Ed. D degree, all of which are doctoral level credentials. Psychologists have received extensive training in research or in clinical psychology, with at least a year of supervised training after they receive their degree. Psychologists may also have training in psychological testing, used to diagnose difficulties such as Attention Deficit Disorder or organic problems. Psychologists are licensed by the Board of Registration of Psychologists.
Professional conduct is monitored at both the state and national level.
Psychoanalysts already have a professional degree in psychology or psychiatry, which they have supplemented with at least two years of training at a psychoanalytic institute. Licensing may vary depending on the psychoanalyst's professional degree, and professional conduct is monitored by local institutes such as the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, as well as by the board that issued the license. Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who have chosen psychiatry as their residency, or specialization. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication and often practice some form of psychotherapy. Licensing is provided by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and professional conduct is monitored by the American Psychiatric Association, as well as by the state Board of Medicine.