Thursday, February 7, 2013

Understanding The Different Types Of Therapists

By Lorrie Kamaka


Finding the best among several Seattle therapists could be very challenging. The different options could be quite confusing, while other people don't really know where to begin. Admitting to yourself that you need help is hard enough; now let these guidelines help you with your biggest challenge in life.

When searching for a therapist, the first part could be very confusing. There are various terms that you meet along the way such as social workers, psychiatrists, psychologists, therapist and counselors and probably acronyms such as LPC, PhD or M. D as well. Although all of these choices are a good one, not everyone might be appropriate with your situation.

Social workers are mental health professionals that have different responsibilities and credentials as their duties depend on the type of social work they do. In most cases, social workers have a master's degree, commonly in social work and serves in local communities. They act as the first line support for mentally troubled individuals.

To start with, social workers are professionals who often deal with families or an individual who suffered from sexual abuse, domestic abuse, substance abuse and the like. A Social worker could both be a volunteer or someone that attained a degree in social work. Social workers more often than not are the first people readily available during crisis.

Counselor is a title that usually describe and LPC or someone that is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has achieved a master's degree in counseling and psychology. Psychologists are professionals that are certified and licensed to practice in the jurisdiction. These professionals are trained to conduct tests, diagnose and perform therapy.

Psychiatrists are still medical doctors that attained doctorates but are quite different from psychologists. These professionals are M. D. S or medical doctors that have the license to test and diagnose mental problems as well as prescribe necessary medications. Psychologists usually refer their clients to psychiatrists if symptoms warrant.

Psychiatrists provide therapy and direct interaction to patients with mental illness directly. They are medical doctors and have a license to prescribe medication unlike psychologists. Psychologists usually refer their patient to a psychiatrist to get prescription medication or ask a psychiatrist to prescribe medicine for their client.

It's wise to say that Seattle therapists exemplify mental health professionals that talks to clients, regardless of their qualifications and official titles. Choose whichever you think is the best and slowly start a better life to live.




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