With so many different professionals who treat mental health and life challenges issues, how do you know what profession is best to choose?
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I chose the Social Work profession for several reasons. First, Social Work programs are nationally accredited so that Social Workers receive the highest quality education across not only the United States but also on an International level. Second, Social Workers adhere to the values, principles, and also techniques which focused on helping people facilitate acquisition of tangible services;
provide counseling and psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups; collaborate with
communities and groups to provide or improve social and health services; and participate in
legislative processes. The practice of social work requires knowledge of human development and
behavior, social environment, economic disparities, community institutions, and the interaction
of all these factors. Social work promotes cultural competence, human rights and social justice,
while advocating for social change, empowerment, and the inherent worth and dignity of all human
beings.
Licensed Clinical Social Workers in Texas are qualified to diagnosis and treat mental illness in addition to providing support for individuals and families needing support for the demands of typical life cycle challenges from pregnancy to aging.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the treatment of mental illness. The unique ability of Psychiatrists is to understand the use of medications used specifically for the treatment of mental illness as well as treating mental illness.
Clinical Psychologists earn their PhD in psychology and have the unique specialization of testing and evaluation of mental illness as well as cognitive/academic needs through objective and subjective assessments in addition to treating mental illness.
In Texas we have a Licensure called the LPC. A Licensed Professional Counselor may have an educational degree at the Master’s level and they are required to have certain types of counseling classes. More information about their licensure can be found through the state of Texas.