Therapists Vs. Psychologists: Which One Should I Choose?

Choosing to seek mental healthcare through individual, group, couples, or family therapy can be a brave choice to prioritize your well-being. Whether you see a counselor, therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist, these professionals have the expertise to assist you in various areas of mental health. Finding an individual with the credentials to treat your specific concerns and meet your unique goals can be essential when looking for a provider.  

Psychologists and therapists often have similar roles but different education levels. Whereas psychologists often have a Ph.D. or PsyD degree, therapists have a master's degree. In addition, psychologists don't all work as therapists; many are researchers, professors, and authors. Knowing the difference between the types of mental health professionals available to you can help you find the most effective care. 

What Is A Psychologist? 

A psychologist has a Ph.D. in psychology or a PsyD in clinical psychology. A PsyD is a type of Ph.D. issued to clinical psychologists who work directly with clients, helping them with their mental health conditions through talk therapy, psychological testing, assessment, and diagnosis of mental illnesses. 

Clinical psychologists may provide individual therapy, marriage and family therapy, and group therapy. Ph.D. psychologists can work as clinicians, researchers, or in various settings, such as universities, corporations, and industries, doing non-clinical work involving an in-depth understanding of human behavior. However, they can also offer therapy if they choose to. 

Note that psychologists are not medical doctors, despite having a doctorate. An individual must have an MD title to be a doctor. Doctors in psychology include psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, and general medical doctors with a specialty in psychiatry or psychology. If you seek prescription medications, a psychiatrist is the only professional able to write the prescription or offer medication management in most states. However, psychologists can provide testing and diagnoses of mental illnesses such as:

• Major depressive disorder

• Schizophrenia

• Panic disorder

• Bipolar disorder

• Personality disorders

• Anxiety disorders

• Substance use disorders

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 

Many clients have a complete mental healthcare team consisting of a psychiatrist, psychologist, and sometimes case management. To know what type of professional you seek, meet with a therapist for an initial consultation. Many providers offer referrals if their services don't fit your goals. 

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources.

What Is A Therapist?

A therapist has a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work. Therapists provide mental and emotional support to their clients through individual, couples, group, and family therapy sessions. In addition, therapists often specialize in a specific area, such as substance use disorders, family dynamics, stress management, or grief counseling. A therapist's work frequently involves talking to their client, exploring problem areas in the client's emotional life and behaviors, and seeking resolution by helping the person learn new coping and communication skills. 

Therapists and psychologists often have different state licenses, and both professionals may work closely with each other. Social workers can also work as counselors or therapists in some cases and can provide essential links to and expertise on local community services or groups. For example, they may connect clients to food resources, emergency shelters, and government benefit programs. "Therapist" is often used as an umbrella term for all counselors, clinical social workers, and clinical psychologists. 

Is A Counselor The Same As A Therapist?

Counselors and therapists often have similarities; some use these job titles interchangeably. However, there can be differences. Licensure, certification, and requirements based on degree programs can be a few differences between a counselor and a therapist. Counselors and therapists both help people with life challenges. However, counselors may offer more short-term, focused, or general therapy methods, whereas therapists may provide long-term treatment, diagnosis, and testing as well.  

In addition, some counselors work in school settings or practice family counseling, where they may work on problem-solving with their clients and refer clients to therapists or psychologists for more in-depth mental health treatment. For instance, someone seeking mental health counselors for marriage or family-related issues may be referred to marriage and family therapists to work on underlying mental health conditions. 

The Main Differences Between Therapists, Psychologists, And Counselors 

Professional counselors and therapists often offer the same support and treatment for mental illness and life challenges. However, if you're looking for support with a specific area, like planning for marriage, school, or a career, you might benefit from seeing a counselor. Therapists often focus more on mental illness and mental health than specific life advice. In addition, in some states, therapists have different credentials than counselors and social workers.  

Psychologists may have additional education leading to a Ph.D. that may allow them to work with those with severe mental illness. In addition, psychologists may administer psychological tests and diagnose mental illnesses. Psychiatrists have medical degrees and can prescribe medications, although some may also engage in psychotherapy with clients. Some psychologists and psychiatrists only work in hospitals, mental health clinics, or inpatient facilities to support those treated there.  

The Professional Relationship With A Psychologist, Therapist, Or Counselor

Relationships between a mental health professional and a client are often called therapeutic alliances. A sense of personal rapport can be vital to a successful therapeutic alliance. 

Finding a therapist, counselor, or clinical psychologist you trust that makes you feel comfortable can be crucial. Look for a provider offering a safe space, a listening ear, and practical advice. The success of counseling can also depend on the client's willingness to engage with the mental health professional, so be open to trying the suggestions your therapist offers. 

Licensed mental health professionals can provide clinical services using therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reintegration therapy (EMDR), and many others. In addition, licensed psychologists often have the additional training to conduct psychological testing, assess, and diagnose mental illnesses.  

How To Find A Provider

There are many ways to find a counselor, psychologist, or therapist. In recent years, online mental health platforms have become a popular method for clients to get support. Numerous studies have found that online therapy can be as effective as seeing a professional in person. 

The benefits of online therapy can go beyond its effectiveness. It can also be convenient and cost-effective for those with a demanding lifestyle. Using an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can communicate with your therapist via video, phone, or live chat messaging. In addition, you may find more flexibility regarding appointment scheduling online than seeing someone in person at their office. 

Takeaway

One difference between licensed therapists and psychologists is their educational degrees. Therapists have master's degrees and clinical training that can prepare them to work with clients to overcome the challenges of a mental health disorder, a difficult life transition, or an unwanted behavior like substance use. 

On the other hand, psychologists often have Ph.Ds. or PsyD degrees that can train them to administer psychological tests to diagnose mental illnesses and support clients with complex psychological conditions. You may connect with licensed mental health professionals in person or online.