Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Therapists, Oh My!
Created by: Michelle Luszczewski LCSW, LCADC on
Sometimes, when we become aware of our mental health, it can feel overwhelming to understand who to talk to and why. Below is a snapshot of different professionals who work with mental health, how they get there, and what they do. Licensing requirements vary by state, I’m specifically discussing the state of Nevada.
Psychiatrist
To become a psychiatrist, one must obtain a bachelor’s degree, pass the MCAT, attend medical school to earn an MD or DO degree, complete a psychiatric residency, and obtain a medical license from the state of practice. Psychiatrists diagnose, treat, and engage in research on mental health disorders. They may specialize in areas such as child psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, or forensic psychiatry.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
To become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, one must obtain a bachelor’s degree and a master’s or doctoral degree. PMHNPs specialize in mental health care and can diagnose and treat with medications. They may work in private practice, healthcare clinics, or hospitals.
Psychologist
To become a psychologist, one must obtain a bachelor’s degree, complete a doctoral program (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), complete an internship, pass the licensing exam in their state, and secure a state license. Psychologists diagnose, provide treatment through talk therapy, and conduct psychological evaluations and testing.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
To become an LCSW, one must obtain a bachelor’s degree, complete a master’s program, take a state licensing exam, complete the required clinical internship hours, take another licensing exam for clinical practice, and obtain a state license. LCSWs diagnose and provide treatment through talk therapy, case management, advocacy, crisis intervention, and community outreach. They focus on all social aspects of a client’s life when providing treatment. LCSWs can work in private practice, hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, social service agencies, government agencies, and schools.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
To become an LCPC, one must obtain a bachelor’s degree, complete a master’s program, complete the required clinical internship hours, pass the licensing exam for clinical practice, and obtain a state license. LCPCs diagnose and provide treatment through talk therapy, typically focusing on the client’s individual issues. They can work in private practice and hospitals.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
To become an LMFT, one must obtain a bachelor’s degree, complete a master’s program, complete the required clinical internship hours, pass the licensing exam for clinical practice, and obtain a state license. LMFTs work with individuals, couples, and families. They diagnose and treat through talk therapy with a focus on family systems. LMFTs can work in private practice, government agencies, and psychiatric hospitals.
Ready to start your journey to healing? Schedule an appointment with Michelle by calling (702) 527-8362 or by emailing evokeinsighttherapy@gmail.com