The word “therapist” is often used in reference to mental health professionals who offer psychotherapy. These therapists include psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs).
Many therapists work with individuals in one-on-one sessions to discuss personal issues or problems they are having. Others work with couples, families, and groups. Some therapists specialize in art therapy, a type of psychotherapy that involves using creativity to explore and express underlying thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
Psychiatrists are medical physicians who have completed their residency in psychiatry, which is a period of training that enables them to practice psychiatry. They have a medical doctorate such as MD or DO and also have additional training in mental health topics, according to Cara Maksimow, LCSW.
A therapist is a professional who specializes in treating physical and mental illnesses through various methods, including counseling and therapeutic talk. This includes helping clients learn how to deal with their symptoms and overcoming them.
Some therapists are licensed clinical social workers or licensed marriage and family therapists, who have a master’s degree in counseling. They are required to gain practical experience under the supervision of a more senior therapist before becoming fully licensed in their state.
Counselors and therapists work with a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship problems. Some therapists use talk therapy and other techniques to help clients improve their mental wellbeing, while others focus on more practical strategies for overcoming emotional or behavioral challenges.