Understanding the differences in therapy providers?

In your search for a therapist, you may encounter a range of different clinical providers. It’s important to have an understanding of the various training, backgrounds, and specializations that providers have so you can make an educated decision about what type of provider you choose to work with.

Below are the most popular certifications for therapy providers:

• LCSW – Licensed Clinical Social Worker. An LCSW holds a master’s degree in social work and has completed two years of supervised clinical social work services.
  
• LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor. An LPC has a master’s degree in counseling or a counseling-related field and has also completed the required amount of supervised counseling work.
• LMHC – Licensed Mental Health Counselor. An LMHC holds a master’s degree in mental health counseling and has completed some level of supervised therapy work.
• LMFT – Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. An LMFT holds a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy or related degree and has completed their required supervised therapy work.
• NCC – National Certified Counselor. A therapist with an NCC designation has a master’s degree in counseling and is certified on a national level.
• PhD – A doctorate of philosophy in psychology, typically with an emphasis in research. Psychologist complete 4 years of graduate school and a one year internship prior to practicing independently.
• PsyD – A doctorate in psychology, with an emphasis in clinical work. Providers with PsyD are called psychologists and have completed 4 years of graduate school with at least one year of internship.
• M.D. – Medical Doctor. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specializes in treating mental health issues and disorders. Psychiatrists tend to prescribe and manage medication and some engage in traditional talk therapy.