May is Mental Health Awareness month, and if that doesn't merit a blog post, I don't know what does! Back in 1949 when it was first declared, I'm quite certain that it was necessary to have such a month. Back then, the thought of having a mental health problem conjured images of "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." No one in their right mind would admit to having a mental health problem, let alone (gasp!) go to see a counselor.
However, now, you'd have to be living under a rock in order to be unaware of the meteoric rise of mental health problems in our country. Numbers were already on the rise when the pandemic hit; and it is estimated that Covid-19 produced another 25% increase in anxiety and depression alone.
Still, questions of what to do about this problem abound. Obviously, a global solution would be complicated, multi-modal, and well beyond the scope of a simple blog post by little, old, handless me. However, I'll practice what I often preach to my clients. I'll focus on what I can do about this problem rather than what I can't...
Many people that have not been exposed to therapy have questions that they're afraid to ask. Well, now they don't have to... In this next series of blog posts, I'll be answering some of these basic questions. If YOU have any questions that I've not yet covered, PLEASE do all! Just write your question in the comment section below.
Today I'll answer a question that I've heard again and again when friends are trying to find a “therapist.” What do all those letters mean, the ones that come after our names; and which letters are best? What type of therapist should I choose? I'd say the most important thing to look for is someone that you feel comfortable with! The most important part of counseling is the relationship between a client and a therapist, so choose someone you like! However, people still want to know…
What's the difference between a psychiatrist, a psychologist, a counselor, a social worker, a pastoral counselor, and a therapist?
A psychiatrist (MD) is a medical doctor who is well-versed in psychotropic medications. He/she can meet with you, learn about your history, symptoms, and complaints, and then prescribe the correct medication and dosage, so that you can lead a life unencumbered by mental illness.
A psychologist (Phd) specializes in testing and assessment of various mental illnesses and educational disabilities. He/she helps patients find the correct diagnosis so that the best course of treatment is found.
A counselor (LCMHC) performs talk therapy with individuals, couples, and families; he/she primarily focuses on helping high-functioning people make the changes necessary for creating the life they want to lead.
A social worker (LCSW) helps connect clients with the resources they need to create a better life tor themselves and their families. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) also engages in talk therapy, but he/she/they do so through a social work lens.
A pastoral counselor (MDiv) does the same work as a counselor, only through the lens of Christianity. They often receive their training in a seminary, and they will usually have some affiliation with a church.
"Therapist" is a general term that encompasses any of the above roles. All of the above terms can be placed under the general umbrella of therapist. Once you consult with a provider in this category, they can lead you in the right direction so that you receive the most effective treatment from the psychological provider that can best serve you.
Stay tuned for more answers to the questions people might be afraid to ask… (And don't forget to put your questions in the comments below!)