What is the difference between a Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Clinical Social Worker, and a Marriage & Family Counselor?
A. All four of these mental health disciplines are recognized and licensed to practice in the state of California. A licensed mental health clinician must obtain a professional degree, have graduate clinical training, and complete an internship after obtaining his/her degree. The total number of required intern hours varies for each particular license. All licensed mental health professionals are able to practice psychotherapy. Most provide individual psychotherapy; many offer couples/conjoint and/or family therapy. A smaller number also offer group therapy. Because a psychiatrist is a medical doctor (M.D.), he or she is able to prescribe medication. Although trained in psychotherapy, some psychiatrists limit their practice to prescribing and monitoring medications. A psychologist (Ph.D.) is also licensed to practice psychotherapy and has special training in psychological testing. Even though a psychiatrist and a psychologist are both called “doctor,” it is important to remember the di
