There are many different pathways to becoming a mental health therapist, and we here at Compassionate Healing are proud to have therapists from a variety of academic backgrounds so that we may capitalize on the experience each member of the team brings to the practice.
Fun fact: the word “therapist” is not a protected title. Anyone could proclaim themselves a therapist of anything with no repercussions. That is why mental health specialists have licensing bodies to ensure that we have been trained, credentialed, and are able to offer you high quality services.
Here at Compassionate Healing, we have the following:
Psychologists (PhDs, PsyDs)
Psychologists are doctoral-level clinicians. In addition to psychotherapy and counseling, they are trained in psychological testing, allowing them to conduct tests on neurological functioning or IQ, and may also have training to diagnose neurodevelopmental conditions like autism spectrum disorder and ADHD and may be more likely to treat severe mental health symptoms, such as psychosis. Psychologists, especially those with PhDs, usually have also worked on a significant amount of research to contribute to the field of psychology.
Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs)
Mental Health Counselors are master’s level clinicians. Their studies often mirror the way a psychologist is trained in regards to general psychotherapy and counseling, though are not trained in administering psychological testing. Many LMHC programs offer specialized training on topics like family therapy, couples therapy, and substance abuse counseling.
Social Worker (LCSWs/LICSWs)
Social workers master’s-level clinicians. They are often trained in a “person-in-environment” approach or systems theory, meaning that they are often taught to gather more information about the whole context of a person’s life, understanding how environmental factors (such as economic, health, and/or identity) impacts a person’s mental health experience. Social workers may have training in macro-based education as well, such as community organizing for social activism and nonprofit-based work.
If you are interested in learning more about our provider’s varied and extensive experience, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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