When it comes to seeking help for mental health issues, it’s important to know the qualifications and credentials of the professionals we turn to.

Different types of mental health professionals have different levels of training and expertise, and understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about your care.

Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the treatment of mental health disorders. They have completed medical school and several years of residency training in psychiatry.

Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy, and often work closely with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive care for their patients.

Psychologists

Psychologists have a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology and are trained to assess and treat mental health disorders using a variety of psychotherapeutic techniques.

They are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medication, but they are able to provide therapy to help patients manage symptoms and improve their mental health.

Social Workers

Social workers have a variety of educational and training backgrounds, but typically have a master’s degree in social work (MSW).

They are trained to provide counseling and support to individuals and families struggling with mental health concerns, as well as connect them with community resources. Social workers cannot prescribe medication.

Counselors

Counselors, also known as licensed professional counselors (LPCs), typically have a master’s degree in counseling or a related field.

They are trained to provide psychotherapy to individuals and families dealing with a variety of mental health concerns. Counselors cannot prescribe medication.

Marriage and Family Therapists

Marriage and family therapists (MFTs) are mental health professionals who specialize in working with couples and families.

They typically have a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field, and are trained to provide therapy to help couples and families address a variety of concerns.

Peer Support Specialists

Peer support specialists are individuals who have personal experience with mental health and substance use disorders, and use their lived experience to help support others.

They are often trained and certified to provide support and advocacy to individuals and families affected by mental health concerns.

Psychiatric Nurses

Psychiatric nurses are registered nurses (RN) who have additional training and expertise in mental health care.

They are able to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders, and often work closely with psychiatrists to provide comprehensive care for patients.

Art Therapists

Art therapists are mental health professionals who use art as a therapeutic tool.

They typically have a master’s degree in art therapy or a related field, and are trained to help individuals express themselves and process their emotions through art.

Music Therapists

Music therapists are mental health professionals who use music as a therapeutic tool.

They typically have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in music therapy, and are trained to help individuals use music to improve their mood, reduce stress, and manage symptoms of mental health disorders.