Psychologist Training and Qualifications
Psychologists are people who have either a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or a PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) in a field such as clinical or counseling psychology. In some cases, a psychologist may have an EdD (Doctor of Education). To get a PhD, PsyD, or EdD, a person must go to graduate school. Graduate programs in clinical or counseling psychology usually last about five to six years. During that time, psychologists receive extensive training in the assessment and treatment of various psychological disorders. In meeting with a psychologist, you want to first make sure he is licensed by the state in which he is practicing. You may also want to ask about his professional orientation. It can also be important to ask about his training and area of expertise to make sure he’s a good fit for you. Moreover, don’t forget the importance of having a personal connection with a mental health provider. Even if a psychologist is perfectly qualified doesn’t mean he is the right provider for you.
Psychiatrists Training and Qualifications
Psychiatrists are people who have an MD (Doctor of Medicine) that have decided to specialize in the treatment of mental illness. Psychiatrists have been to medical school and have completed a residency in psychiatry. Like psychologists, psychiatrists also receive extensive training in the assessment and treatment of various psychological disorders. They are also going to have their own beliefs and ideas about the origins of psychological disorders and how to treat them. Many, although definitely not all, psychiatrists may follow a biological or disease model of mental illness. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists are qualified to prescribe medication.
Other Types of Mental Health Professionals
Some mental health professionals are not called “doctor.” These mental health professionals may have a master’s degree in social work, clinical psychology or counseling psychology. These individuals have also received training in the assessment and treatment of psychological disorders. As with other mental health professionals, you will want to ask about their professional orientation, training, and expertise and whether or not they are licensed to practice. Individuals with a master’s degree who are licensed to treat psychological disorders will often have LCSW follow their name. This stands for “licensed clinical social worker.”
Which Type of Mental Health Provider Is Best?
There really is no good answer to this question. The mental health professional that is best is the one who best fits your needs. Ask a lot of questions. Make sure that you feel comfortable with the person you are meeting with. Do you agree with their treatment approach? Treatment requires sharing a lot of personal information with someone. Make sure that you trust and feel comfortable with the person you are meeting with.
