Starting Therapy
Therapist vs Counselor vs Psychologist
'Therapist' and 'counselor' are broad terms for licensed professionals who provide talk therapy, usually at master's level. 'Psychologist' generally indicates a doctoral degree and may include psychological testing. 'Psychiatrist' is a physician who can prescribe medication. Exact titles and scope are set by state licensing law.
Master's-level licensed clinicians
This group includes licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers and licensed marriage and family therapists. All provide talk therapy; training emphasis differs, social work leans toward systems and resources, marriage and family therapy toward relational systems, counseling toward clinical mental health practice.
Psychologists
Psychologists typically hold a doctoral degree and may provide therapy, psychological assessment and testing. In most states they do not prescribe medication.
Psychiatrists and medical providers
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who evaluate and treat mental health conditions and can prescribe medication. Some also provide therapy. Primary care providers also frequently manage common medications.
Which should you look for?
For talk therapy, any appropriately licensed clinician with relevant experience may be a reasonable option. If testing or medication is a question, a psychologist or medical provider may be involved. A therapist can help point you toward the right kind of professional.
This article is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. In the United States you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.