- Have earned a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) which usually takes 4 or more years after earning an undergraduate degree. They
usually must complete a dissertation based on research and a 1-year internship in a mental health-related setting. They must meet state certification or licensing requirements to practice: a certain number of hours of supervised
clinical work in addition to passing a national licensing exam.Counseling Psychologist - Have earned a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Ed.D.). The other info stated above for clinical psychologists also applies here.
Psychiatrist
- Have earned a medical degree (M.D.) and are medical doctors. In addition to typical medical training, they have completed a 3-4 year residency in psychiatry, usually in a hospital setting. As physicians they can prescribe medications and/or ECT and can hospitalize patients. Some are also trained in psychotherapy methods.
Psychoanalyst
- Have traditionally been persons with M.D. degrees (psychiatrists) who were also trained in the methods of psychoanalysis. Other types of therapists may also qualify as psychoanalysts if they meet the qualifications of a psychoanalyst: complete the required courses and training and undergo psychoanalysis themselves as a patient (a costly and time-consuming process).
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- Must earn a master's degree in social work (M.S.W.) which usually takes 2 years of full-time study. Their course work includes practical experience called "field placement" in social work agencies and/or mental health facilities. They must meet state licensing requirements which usually involves a certain number of hours of supervised clinical social work in addition to passing a licensing exam.
Psychiatric Nurse - Are registered nurses who have usually completed a 2-year master's program in nursing.
Counselor
- Can have a range of educational backgrounds from a bachelor's degree (B.A.) to a master's degree (M.A.). They may also be members of the clergy (pastoral counselors). Some counselors are trained to work with a specific population such as drug and alcohol abusers. However, some counselors may have little formal training in providing psychotherapy services. The term "licensed practical counselor" (LPC), however, is regulated in the state of Colorado; that is, certain requirements must be met.
Note: In some states, the terms "therapist", "psychotherapist", "counselor" may not be regulated. That means they can call themselves by these terms and hang up a shingle with little or no training.
The term "psychologist", however, is typically regulated.
