These days, many people have some type of letter combination after their name. In the mental health field, these represent different the provider’s licensure. The most common ones are Psy D, LMFT, LCSW or LICSW, and LMHC/LPC. An ‘A’ added to any of those indicates the therapist has an associate license and are under supervision from a licensed/experienced therapist. In this article, I will explain each of those licensures to help you choose your mental health provider.

In a nutshell, all of these providers focus on treating mental health conditions. They all received advanced education and hold advanced degrees. The difference lies in the theories each follows. A theory is like a map that helps interpret the problems you bring to therapy. When you share feelings, thoughts, and behaviors you want change, your provider uses this “map” to understand how to help you feel better. Let’s dive in to what each of those licenses means.

Psychologists

Psychologists often focus on scientific rigor in both treatment and research. They either have a PhD in psychology, Psy D which is a PhD in clinical psychology, or a doctoral degree in education. Clinical psychologists focus on treating serious mental health conditions like psychosis or personality disorders. Others focus on research to advance the profession.

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers diagnose and treat individuals and families. They hold a Master’s degree in social work. While they often work in social services and healthcare, they also work in private settings. They view individual wellbeing as part of social systems like families, communities, and the state. They often work with oppressed individuals and understand issues from the perspective of social justice.

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists diagnose and treat individuals, couples, and families. They hold a Master’s degree in marriage and family or family and couple’s therapy. Many LMFTs work in private practice, though they sometimes work at various organizations. They follow the principles of “system’s theory”, which is a holistic philosophy that views people as connected through their families, communities, nations, and nature itself.

LHMC/LPC

Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Licensed Professional Counselors mostly diagnose and treat individuals. They hold a Master’s degree in counseling/counseling psychology. They often focus on shorter term mental health support, helping individuals to reach a higher level of functioning, independence, healthy coping skills, and self-realization.

Keep in mind these are the general guidelines and each therapist/counselor adopts their own stance and philosophy. For example, some psychologists focus on achieving self-realization while some LMFTs treat severe mental health problems. The most important factor for success in counseling or therapy is the personal connection with your provider. Finding the right therapist is like dating. Sometimes, you have to go through a bunch of people until you find the best fit. But when you do, it can be life changing.