Differences in Mental Health Providers

Below we list descriptions of professionals who deliver mental health services. The descriptions begin with the Professional Category (e.g., Psychologist, Psychiatrist, etc.), then Degree, Training Requirements, and finally Educational Approach (that is, the focus on their training. Further descriptions about the differences between mental health practitioners can be found at here.

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  • Psychologist

    Ph.D., Ed.D., or Psy.D.

    Graduate training 4 years, plus 1 year internship and 1 year post-degree supervision

    Study of science related to the brain and behavior

  • Licensed clinical social worker (LCSW)

    Masters of Social Work

    Graduate training 2 years, plus 2 years post-degree supervision

    Study of human development and social welfare

  • Licensed mental health counselor (LMHC)

    Masters degree In mental health related field, such as addictions, psychology, or social work

    Graduate training of 2 years plus 2 years post-degree supervision

    Study related to the primary area of the degree

  • Marriage and family therapist (LMFT)

    Description goes hereMasters degree in marriage and family therapy

    Graduate training of 2 years plus 2 years post-degree supervision

    Study of theories of human relationships and family systems

  • Pastoral counselors

    Masters degree in divinity

    Graduate training of 2 years plus 2 years post-degree supervision

    Study of religious thought and spirituality

  • Clinical nurse specialist

    Master’s degree in psychiatric nursing

    Graduate training of 2 years

    Study of nursing and mental health

  • Psychiatrist

    Medical degree

    Graduate medical training of 4 years plus 4 years residency

    Study of medicine and human biology; pharmacology

  • School Psychologist

    Ed.S (Specialist in Education) in school psychology

    Masters degree or specialist degree plus 2 years supervised residency

    Study of legal, ethical, and professional issues related to school psychology, as well as training in

    psychological assessment, academic and behavioral interventions counseling, and consultation.