A Guide to Mental Health Credentials: LPC, LCSW, PsyD, and More Explained

Written By Ethan Briggs

Decoding Therapist Credentials: Who’s Who in Mental Health Care

Starting therapy is a courageous and positive step toward improving your mental health. But if you’ve ever searched for a therapist online, you’ve probably come across a long list of professionals with different letters after their names—LCSW, LPC, PsyD, PMHNP, and more. It’s easy to wonder: “What do these mean, and who should I choose?”

Understanding the different types of mental health providers can help you feel more confident and informed as you begin your search. Below is a breakdown of common credentials, what they mean, and how these professionals can support you in your mental health journey.

Therapists: Who Provides Talk Therapy?

All licensed therapists must hold a minimum of a Master’s degree in their field, participate in continuing education, and pass state licensing exams. They are trained to help individuals, couples, and families work through emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges.

Here are the most common types of therapists:

LCSW / LISW – Licensed Clinical Social Worker/ Licensed Independent Social Worker

  • Education: Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW)

  • Focus: LCSWs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. LCSWs take a holistic approach to mental health, addressing not only psychological symptoms but also the social, environmental, and relational factors that impact well-being.

  • Fun fact: This is the license I hold!

LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor

  • Education: Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling, Psychology, or a similar field

  • Focus: LPCs are trained to provide individual and group therapy. Their approach often emphasizes emotional, behavioral, and cognitive wellness.

MFT – Marriage and Family Therapist

  • Education: Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy, or a related area

  • Focus: Specializes in relationship dynamics and family systems. MFTs work with couples, families, and individuals, focusing on interpersonal and communication issues.

PsyD / PhD – Psychologist

  • Education: Doctoral Degree in Psychology (PsyD = Doctor of Psychology; PhD = Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology)

  • Focus: Psychologists can provide therapy and are also licensed to perform psychological testing and assessments, such as evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and learning disabilities.

Prescribers: Who Can Manage Mental Health Medications?

In some cases, therapy alone may not be enough, and medication may be helpful. If that’s the case, you’ll need to work with a provider who can prescribe medications:

MD – Medical Doctor/Psychiatrist

  • Education: Doctor of Medicine

  • Focus: Diagnoses mental health conditions and prescribes psychiatric medications. Some also provide therapy.

  • Note: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health and can manage complex medication needs.

DO – Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine/Psychiatrist

  • Similar to an MD but trained with a holistic approach. DOs can also prescribe medication and may incorporate physical health into mental health treatment.

PMHNP – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

  • Education: Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with specialization in psychiatry

  • Focus: Can evaluate, diagnose, and prescribe medications for mental health conditions. Many PMHNPs also offer therapy.

PA-C – Physician Assistant - Certified

  • Education: Master’s level training in medicine

  • Focus: Works under the supervision of a physician, can diagnose and prescribe medications for a variety of conditions, including mental health.

Primary Care Provider (PCP)

  • In some cases, your PCP may be able to prescribe medications for depression, anxiety, or other common mental health concerns. However, for more complex cases, a specialist such as a psychiatrist may be recommended.

Still Have Questions? I’m Here to Help.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, you're not alone—and you're not expected to have all the answers right away. Feel free to reach out with any questions about finding a provider or understanding what type of therapy may be right for you.

Ready to take the first step?
Visit the “Client Portal” link at the top of this page to begin your therapy journey today. I look forward to supporting you!

Ethan Briggs
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