Types Of Mental Health Treatments
The following professionals can conduct psychological assessments and therapy but generally cannot prescribe medications (although some states permit it):
Clinical Psychologist
A psychologist with a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program. They are trained to diagnose and offer individual and group therapy.
School Psychologist
A psychologist with an advanced degree in psychology from an accredited School Psychology program. They are trained to diagnose, provide individual and group therapy, and collaborate with school staff to optimize the school environment.
The following professionals can offer counseling and, with proper training, assessments but cannot prescribe medication:
Clinical Social Worker
A counselor with a master’s degree in social work from an accredited graduate program. They are trained to diagnose, provide individual and group counseling, and offer case management and advocacy, often in hospital settings.
Licensed Professional Counselor
A counselor with a master’s degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field. They are trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.
Mental Health Counselor
A counselor with a master’s degree and several years of supervised clinical work experience. They are trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.
Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor
A counselor with specialized clinical training in alcohol and drug abuse. They are trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.
Nurse Psychotherapist
A registered nurse trained in psychiatric and mental health nursing. They are trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.
Marital and Family Therapist
A counselor with a master’s degree and specialized education and training in marital and family therapy. They are trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.
Pastoral Counselor
Clergy with training in clinical pastoral education. They are trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling.
Peer Specialist
A counselor with personal experience with mental health or substance use conditions. They help clients with recovery by identifying and developing strengths and setting goals. Many peer support programs require several hours of training.
Other Therapists
Therapists with advanced degrees trained in specialized therapy forms, such as art therapists or music therapists.
The following professionals can prescribe medication but may not provide therapy:
Psychiatrist
A medical doctor with special training in diagnosing and treating mental and emotional illnesses. They can prescribe medication but often do not counsel patients.
Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist
A medical doctor with special training in diagnosing and treating emotional and behavioral issues in children. They can prescribe medication but may not provide psychotherapy.
Psychiatric or Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Additionally, depending on your state, your Primary Care Physician, Physician’s Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner may be qualified to prescribe medication.
Once you’ve decided to contact a mental health professional, spend a few minutes on the phone with them. Ask about their approach, philosophy, and any specialties or areas of focus. If you feel comfortable, schedule an appointment.
During your first visit, the professional will want to understand your situation and why you sought their help. They will ask about your life, relationships, and background to assess your situation and develop a treatment plan.
If you don’t feel comfortable with the professional after one or more visits, discuss your feelings in your next session, and don’t hesitate to contact another professional. Feeling at ease with the professional you choose is crucial for successful treatment.
Once you've decided to contact a mental health professional, spend a few minutes on the phone with them. Ask about their approach, philosophy, and any specialties or areas of focus. If you feel comfortable, schedule an appointment.
During your first visit, the professional will want to understand your situation and why you sought their help. They will ask about your life, relationships, and background to assess your situation and develop a treatment plan.
If you don't feel comfortable with the professional after one or more visits, discuss your feelings in your next session, and don't hesitate to contact another professional. Feeling at ease with the professional you choose is crucial for successful treatment.