When selecting a mental health care provider, be wary of those who use the vague terms “psychotherapist” or “counselor.” Always look for a licensed professional. While it is not illegal for someone to hold him or herself out as an unlicensed mental health care provider, unlicensed providers may have not satisfied the same education and training requirements as a licensed professional. Unlicensed providers are not accountable through a board disciplinary action if you have reason to file a complaint. You also may want to verify that someone practicing “unlicensed” has not had a license revoked by a state board.
Psychologists may have a Ph.D., Psy.D. or Ed.D degree, all of which are doctoral level credentials. Psychologists have received extensive training in research or in clinical psychology, with at least a year of supervised training after they receive their degree. Psychologists may also have training in psychological testing, used to diagnose difficulties such as Attention Deficit Disorder or organic problems. Psychologists are licensed by the Board of Registration of Psychologists. Professional conduct is monitored at both the state and national level.
Psychoanalysts already have a professional degree in psychology or psychiatry, which they have supplemented with at least two years of training at a psychoanalytic institute. Licensing may vary depending on the psychoanalyst’s professional degree, and professional conduct is monitored by local institutes such as the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, as well as by the board that issued the license.
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who have chosen psychiatry as their residency, or specialization. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication and often practice some form of psychotherapy. Licensing is provided by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and professional conduct is monitored by the American Psychiatric Association, as well as by the state Board of Medicine.
Psychiatric Nurse Mental Health Clinical Specialists are Registered Nurses with additional special education in mental health care. These advanced practice nurses may offer mental health care which includes evaluative, diagnostic, consultative, and therapeutic procedures as well as prescribing medications. Psychiatric Nurse Mental
Health Clinical Specialists must hold a master’s degree in mental health nursing, meet the Board of Registration in Nursing criteria for advanced practice, and receive its authorization. These advanced practice nurses are also certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The Board of Registration in Nursing licenses Registered Nurses and monitors professional conduct.
Social Workers have an undergraduate or graduate degree in social work or a related mental health field and are trained in psychotherapy and social work techniques. Family therapists and employee assistance program counselors are often social workers. Social workers who work in private agencies or independent practice must hold state licenses from the Board of Registration of Social Workers. Look for an L.I.C.S.W. (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker). These practitioners have master’s degrees and additional supervised experiences. A L.C.S.W. (Licensed Certified Social Worker) or a L.S.W (Licensed Social Worker) may practice in an agency setting under proper supervision. Professional conduct is monitored by the Board of Registration of Social Workers.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, or L.M.F.T.s, may have a master’s or doctoral degree from a graduate program in the field. L.M.F.Ts use psychotherapeutic techniques with individuals, family groups, couples or organizations to assist in resolving emotional conflicts, modifying perceptions and behavior, enhancing communication and understanding among all family members, and preventing family and individual crises. These therapists must be licensed by the Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professionals which also monitors professional conduct.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors, or L.M.H.C.s, hold a master’s degree from a graduate program in the field. They may render mental health care services to individuals, families or groups. L.M.H.C.s use therapeutic techniques to define goals and develop treatment plans aimed toward prevention, treatment and resolution of mental and emotional dysfunction. Mental Health Counselors are licensed by the Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professionals which also monitors professional conduct.
Licensed Rehabilitation Counselors work to maximize or restore the capacities of physically or mentally handicapped individuals for self-sufficiency and independent living. They apply therapeutic techniques in client assessment, job analysis, vocational assessment, counseling and job development. Rehabilitation Counselors are licensed by the Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professionals which also monitors professional conduct.
Licensed Educational Psychologists deliver services to individuals, groups, families, educational institutions and staff and community agencies which promote mental health and facilitate learning. These services may be preventative, developmental or remedial and include psychological and psychoeducational assessment, therapeutic intervention, program planning and evaluation, and referral to other mental health care providers when necessary. Educational Psychologists are licensed by the Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professionals which also monitors professional conduct.
Choosing a Mental Health Care Provider
No matter what other factors influence your choice of a mental health care provider, the most important consideration is comfort. Finding a care provider with whom you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts, feelings, and the details of your life is a critical step to wellness.
To find a mental health care provider, consult your primary care provider or health care insurer, which may be able to provide you with a list of therapists. If your insurer does not have a listing, consider talking with family and friends who have experience with mental health care. If your employer has an employee assistance program, this is a great information source. Your church or synagogue may be another source of reliable recommendations. You may also want to contact your local community mental health center or any of the associations listed below.
Prior to committing to regular visits with a mental health provider, take time to ask questions and get to know him or her. If you do not feel comfortable and relaxed, you are not obligated to engage his or her mental health services. Often, a mental health provider can help you find the best match by referring you to another professional. Follow-up on the referral, and be sure to ask questions again.