To determine the best type of therapist for your needs, consider your main reason for having therapy and whether you require a diagnosis or medications.
There are different types of mental health professionals, including the following:
Psychologist. Psychologists offer psychotherapy that relates to behaviors, emotions, and thoughts. Psychologists have a doctoral degree, typically a PhD or PsyD. In most states, they are unable to prescribe medications, but they can diagnose mental health conditions.
Psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is either a doctor of medicine (MD) or osteopathic medicine (DO). They diagnose and treat mental health conditions and can prescribe medications.
Licensed marriage and A family. therapist (LMFT). LMFTs have a master’s degree. They provide counseling to families and married couples to resolve specific concerns and treat mental health conditions. In some states, LMFTs can diagnose mental health conditions.
Licensed professional counselor (LPC). An LPC has a master’s degree. They treat mental health conditions, and in some states, can diagnose them.
Licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). LCSWs have master’s degrees in social work and are licensed to provide diagnosis and counseling services to clients.