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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Mental Health Professionals
The following are examples of professionals who may be of
help to you or your family.
Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental
and emotional illness. Because of their medical training,
they can treat serious disorders that other mental health
professionals cannot.
Psychiatrists have an M.D. degree, have completed a
residency program in psychiatry, and have an additional
2 years of experience. They also must pass a national exam
for board certification.
Psychiatrists are the only mental health professionals who
can prescribe drugs and provide other kinds of medical
therapies. They also are trained in a wide variety of
therapies, including individual, family, and group
therapies. Most public agencies and mental health centers
have psychiatrists on staff. Psychiatrists may also have
private practices or work in medical settings.
Clinical Psychologist
Clinical psychologists are trained to provide therapy to
individuals or groups. In addition, they are skilled in the
use of diagnostic measures. The academic background
includes training in psychotherapeutic approaches, human
behavior, and research methodology.
Psychologists have a doctoral degree, at least 2 years of
supervised experience, and must pass an exam.
Social Worker
Most social workers who do psychotherapy have a master's
degree in social work (M.S.W.) and training and experience
in diagnosis, individual and group therapy, consultation,
and referral.
Requirements for membership in the Academy of Certified
Social Workers (A.C.S.W.), the highest accreditation for a
social worker, include a master's degree, 2 years of
supervised experience after the master's degree, and
successful completion of a national examination.
Psychotherapist
"Psychotherapist" is a general term to describe anyone who
practices psychotherapy, the treatment of emotional problems
with psychological methods.
Other
Other mental health professionals who provide therapy
include marriage and family therapists, psychiatric nurses,
and pastoral counselors. Requirements for certification
vary but usually involve a master's or doctoral degree in an
accredited program as well as supervised training in
psychotherapy.
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