The Alphabet Soup of Therapy Part One: Types of Providers
- Lisa Pate, LCSW
- Jul 13, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 27, 2023
If you've ever explored therapy, you may have come across a bunch of letters representing different therapist types and therapy methods. It can feel like cracking a secret code to find the right person who can offer the help you need. This series of posts aims to unravel some of these abbreviations and initials, assisting you in navigating your search for a therapist. In this first post, we'll look at the letters that represent therapist credentials.
Understanding Therapist Credentials
Therapist credentials, which signify various licensing or certification types, can differ from state to state. This post provides a general overview of common credentials in the United States. It's worth noting that specific letters may vary across different fields. For example, in social work, an LCSW or an LICSW might indicate similar credentials, and a provisionally licensed therapist could be referred to as an LMSW or an LCSWA. To fully grasp the credentials in your state, you may need to conduct additional research.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC): Professionals with these credentials have completed a master's degree in counseling or a related field, fulfilled supervised clinical experience requirements, and passed a licensure examination. LPC or LMHC designations enable therapists to provide independent counseling and therapy services.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): LCSWs are licensed professionals who have acquired a master's degree in social work, gained clinical experience through supervised practice, and may have had to pass licensing exams. They are trained to offer therapy and counseling services, often focusing on social and environmental factors that affect mental health.
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW): An LMSW has obtained a master's degree in social work, but they may lack the necessary experience and/or additional testing to attain an LCSW. Depending on the jurisdiction, this may impose certain limitations or restrictions on their practice, requiring them to work under the supervision of an LCSW.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): LMFTs specialize in working with couples and families. They hold a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field and have completed supervised clinical hours. LMFTs are trained to address relational and systemic issues within the context of therapy.
Psychologist (Ph.D. or Psy.D.): Psychologists hold doctoral degrees in psychology, either a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.). They undergo extensive training in psychological assessment, research, and therapy. Psychologists often work in various therapeutic settings and may specialize in specific areas of psychology.
Psychiatrist (M.D. or D.O.): Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in mental health and psychiatry. They can prescribe medication and provide therapy services. Psychiatrists undergo medical training, earn a medical degree (M.D. or D.O.), and complete a residency in psychiatry.
Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) or Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC): CASACs and CADCs specialize in substance abuse and addiction counseling. They obtain specific certifications and training related to addiction counseling and may work in various treatment settings, including rehabilitation centers or outpatient clinics.
These are some of the most common credential letters you may encounter while searching for a therapist. Additionally, you're likely to come across abbreviations denoting different therapy types. In the next post, we will explore these common therapy abbreviations.