What is psychotherapy?
There are a number of different approaches to therapy, stemming from different theoretical backgrounds, and designed to treat different issues or disorder. The most common types of therapy provided today are psychoanalysis, supportive counseling, talk therapy, behavior therapy, exposure therapy, cognitive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
What is a psychological evaluation?
In general, a psychological evaluation, involves completing a variety of different tests and interview techniques to determine if you have mental health needs warranting attention and what type of treatments or interventions may be most helpful. If you are trying to figure out if you have a mental health disorder and how to help yourself, a psychological assessment is a great way to answer these questions.
What is the difference between a psychologist, L.P.C., and LCSW?
There are more similarities than there are differences. Each type of mental health provider is able to provide a variety of therapies and diagnostic procedures. All must obtain state licensure and adhere to high standards regarding ethics. The primary difference is in the level and kinds of training received by each type of mental health provider.
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) – requires a minimum of a Master’s degree in Social Work.
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – requires a minimum of a Master’s degree in Counseling.
• Psychologist (Ph.D. or PsyD) – requires a doctorate degree in psychology and can independently perform psychological evaluations.