Finding the Right Therapist
Who's Who?
Social Worker (LISW-CP) This professional must have a Master’s
or doctoral degree from an accredited social work program, and two
years of supervision experience. Clinical Social Workers can assess
and diagnose mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders, and addictions
and other conditions. Clinical Social Workers perform individual, family,
marital, and group therapy. They are the largest group of mental health
providers.
Psychiatrist (M.D.) – This professional is a medical doctor with
three years of specialty training who evaluates and diagnoses
all types of mental disorders. Psychiatrists can prescribe medicines,
often called psychotropic medicines, and can hospitalize patients.
They may specialize in geriatric, adult, and/or children and
adolescents.
Psychologist (Ph.D., Psy.D, Ed.D) This professional has a doctorate.
He or she must also have specialty training and meet experience requirements.
Specialties include: clinical, counseling, industrial/organizational,
community, school, social, and experimental psychology. Psychologists
can conduct and interpret psychological, intellectual, and academic
testing.
Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) This professional must
have a master’s degree in marital and family therapy or equivalent
and specified work experience under a licensed marriage and family
therapy supervisor. He or she works with families, couples, and individuals
on the resolution of problems.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) This professional must
have a master’s degree in counseling or equivalent plus two years
full time experience. LPC’s work with families, couples, and
individuals on the resolution of problems.
Steps to Take
Call your insurance company,Consult our referral site, ask your doctor,
or talk with knowlegeable friends who have benefited from therapy
for help in finding the right therapist for you.
If it is important that your insurance covers your therapy, you will
first want to check with the mental health provider department of
your insurance. You might have a preferred provider panel of therapists.
Know the benefits and risks for engaging in counseling as well as
your rights as a clientWhen speaking with a mental health provider
look for the above initials after the individuals name (i.e. M.D.,
LISW-CP, LMFT, or LPC) Professionals not licensed, but who market
themselves as a counselor, or therapist should be avoided.
Credentials and licensure are essential, but if you have any ethical
concerns about your particular therapist, contact the therapist's
licensing agency to ask questions or make a report.
