When struggling with emotional well-being, finding the right professional support can significantly improve your mindset.
Mental health is a complex field, encompassing various disorders, with many individuals experiencing more than one condition simultaneously (comorbidity).
The National Institute of Mental Health reports that over 20 million Americans had a substance use disorder (SUD) in 2014, and 7.9 million of them also faced a mental illness (dual diagnosis).
To address mental health and substance use issues, seeking the appropriate help can guide you toward a more fulfilling life. Today, we’ll explore what sets counselors, therapists, and psychologists apart to help you determine which professional may be most suitable.
Addressing Mental Health Disorders
Diagnosing and treating mental health conditions is a nuanced process requiring the skills of trained professionals. Identifying the best treatment approach can be challenging.
While some mental health professions focus on research, others specialize in diagnosing, prescribing, and treating. The roles of counselors, therapists, and psychologists frequently overlap.
Treatment for mental health disorders often involves a combination of medication and evidence-based behavioral therapy.
Counselors, therapists, and psychologists all use psychotherapy as a core treatment approach.
If you seek professional help, your treatment will likely include a psychotherapy component.
Understanding Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy encompasses a range of behavioral therapy techniques aimed at helping individuals understand the root causes of their mental health challenges and develop healthier coping strategies.
During psychotherapy sessions, you’ll engage in conversations with a psychotherapist who can help you navigate the issues causing psychological distress.
The American Psychiatric Association notes that 75% of people who engage in psychotherapy experience an improvement in their mental health.
Types of Psychotherapy
There are many different approaches to psychotherapy, and a skilled practitioner can help determine which is best for your needs.
Here are some common types:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Focuses on understanding thought patterns and developing healthier coping mechanisms.
Interpersonal Therapy
Aims to improve communication skills and manage relationship challenges.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
A specialized form of CBT used for conditions like PTSD, borderline personality disorder, suicidal thoughts, and eating disorders.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Examines how childhood experiences shape disordered thinking, working to replace negative thought patterns with more positive ones.
Psychoanalysis
An intensive form of psychodynamic therapy that typically involves at least three sessions per week.
Finding the right type of therapy can empower you to confront troubling thoughts and emotions effectively.
Which Professional is Right for You?
Counselor
A counselor is a mental health professional who uses talk therapy to help manage psychological distress.
Talk therapy, a form of psychotherapy, can benefit those struggling with issues like:
- Addiction
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Grief
- Low self-esteem
Counseling sessions may be individual, group, or couple-based, lasting between 30 to 50 minutes. Counselors assist clients in understanding their challenges, diagnosing mental health concerns, and developing positive coping strategies to adapt to life’s difficulties. They may also provide referrals for additional services if needed.
Although counselors don’t require the same level of training and licensing as therapists and psychologists, they are sometimes referred to as therapists.
Types of Counselors
Counseling extends beyond the healthcare field, serving various needs. Types of counselors include:
- Health Counselor
- Family Counselor
- Veterans Counselor
- Child Abuse Counselor
- Domestic Violence Counselor
- Behavioral Counselor
- Relationship Counselor
- Spiritual Advisor
- Life Coach
Since counselors are not always licensed, be cautious of individuals who may pose as counselors to exploit others financially.
Therapist
The term “therapist” encompasses various roles, including psychologists, social workers, counselors, and marriage therapists.
In many states, therapists must be licensed, and they are required to complete ongoing training each year to maintain their license. In states where a license is not mandatory, the term may also apply to specialists like life coaches.
As a regulated profession, therapists adhere to strict standards of confidentiality, professionalism, and ethics.
Therapists frequently use psychotherapy as a primary treatment approach.
Psychologist
Psychologists are highly trained professionals who hold at least a master’s degree.
Qualified psychologists follow stringent codes of professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical conduct. In most cases, they are required to have a license to practice.
Psychology encompasses various specialties. When thinking of a psychologist, many picture someone observing a patient on a couch, taking notes. However, their work can also involve:
- Conducting research or leading research teams
- Teaching at colleges or universities
- Performing clinical evaluations and diagnosing mental health conditions
- Recommending treatment based on clinical evidence
- Providing therapy in a private practice
What To Do Next
When seeking professional help, it’s important to verify credentials and read reviews to ensure you are making an informed choice.
Working with a licensed professional can offer peace of mind, knowing you’ll receive the support needed to improve your quality of life.
For assistance with any mental health concerns, contact Sunrise Recovery team at +1 (877) 978 – 6747. Our experts are here to help.
