I need to see a counselor, so what kind of mental health professional should I see?

If you’ve arrived at the decision that you need to see a counselor, you’ve taken an important step in caring for your mental health. The next step is determining what kind of mental health professional you should make an appointment with.

As you begin to explore information about available counselors, you may be surprised to discover there are several kinds of mental health professionals; who you make an appointment with depends on your counseling needs. Let’s take a brief look at the different kinds of mental health professionals available to serve you with insights below provided by the National Alliance on Mental Illness:

FOR ASSESSMENT AND THERAPY

Psychologists hold a doctoral degree in clinical psychology or another specialty such as counseling or education. They are trained to evaluate a person’s mental health using clinical interviews, psychological evaluations, and testing. They can make diagnoses and provide individual and group therapy. Some may have training in specific forms of therapy like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Counselors, Clinicians, Therapists – These masters-level mental health professionals are trained to evaluate a person’s mental health and use therapeutic techniques based on specific training programs. They operate under a variety of job titles including counselor, clinician, therapist or, more specifically:

• • Licensed Professional Counselor.
  • Mental Health Counselor.
  • Marriage, Family, and Child Counselor (MFCC) or Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT).
  • Certified alcohol and drug abuse counselors.

or something else based on the treatment setting. Working with one of these mental health professionals can lead not only to symptom reduction but to better ways of thinking, feeling and living.

Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) are trained to evaluate a person’s mental health and use therapeutic techniques based on specific training programs. They are also trained in case management and advocacy services.

PRESCRIBE AND MONITOR MEDICATION

Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who have completed psychiatric training. They can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe and monitor medications, and provide therapy. Some have completed additional training in child and adolescent mental health, substance use disorders, or geriatric psychiatry.

Psychiatric or Mental Health Nurse Practitioners can provide assessment, diagnosis, and therapy for mental health conditions or substance use disorders. In some states, they are also qualified to prescribe and monitor medications. Requirements also vary by state as to the degree of supervision necessary by a licensed psychiatrist.

Primary Care Physicians and pediatricians can prescribe medication, but you might consider visiting someone who specializes in mental health care. Primary care and mental health professionals should work together to determine an individual’s best treatment plan.

OTHER PROFESSIONALS YOU MAY ENCOUNTER

Certified Peer Specialists – These specialists have lived experience with a mental health condition or substance use disorder. They are often trained, certified, and prepared to assist with recovery by helping a person set goals and develop strengths. They provide support, mentoring, and guidance.

Social Workers (B.A. or B.S.) provide case management, inpatient discharge planning services, placement services, and other services to support healthy living.

Pastoral Counselors are clergy members with training in clinical pastoral education. They are trained to diagnose and provide counseling and can have equivalents to a doctorate in counseling.

Scott Free Clinic recommends that, regardless which mental health professional you see, try to find a counselor or therapist who is an authentic, committed Christian.

Scotty