Welcome to the first post of a series in which I attempt to answer questions about the mental health profession and therapy. There can be a lot of misconceptions and confusion about mental health professionals, what to expect out of therapy, billing, and different types/theories/methods of therapy. Today we will talk about the different types of mental health professionals and what each can do.

It is not at all uncommon for me to begin a therapy session with a new client only to find out that they are looking for someone to prescribe them psychotropic medication. Unfortunately that is not something that I can do as a mental health practitioner/therapist. That is outside my scope of practice. So what does a therapist do?

A therapist/counselor/mental health practitioner can provide psychotherapy (therapy) services only. This therapist may have a masters degree/license in counselor, or may have a masters degree/license in social work. Depending on the state you are in, a therapist may be referred to as a professional counselor or mental health practitioner instead. These providers cannot prescribe medication. Depending on their level of licensure, a therapist CAN diagnose mental health disorders.

A psychologist can also provide therapy services, but cannot provide medication. A psychologist has received a doctorate degree. Not all psychologists works as therapists, as there are several other options (forensic psychology, industrial psychology, etc.) for a psychologist. Those choosing the counseling psychology path can provide therapy services, but, again, cannot prescribe medication.

A psychiatrist can prescribe psychotropic medication. A psychiatrist can also provide therapy services, but not all choose to do so. In my experience in the field, many psychiatrist offer short (15-20 minute) sessions and solely focus on medication. But that is not always the case. There are psychiatrist who prescribe medication and also provide psychotherapy.

At least here in the Midwest, psychiatrists are in short supply and you will likely be on a lengthy waitlist before getting in for an initial appointment. You can always talk to your primary care provider (PCP), as many are willing to prescribe psychotropic medication, depending on the severity of your condition and what type of medication you need. You can also schedule with an APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) to obtain psychotropic drugs. APRNs are nurses who have received special training in assessing and prescribing medication for mental health concerns. APRNs can also provide psychotherapy services.

As a therapist, I highly recommend seeing a psychiatrist or APRN (as opposed to your PCP) for psychotropic medications. Especially if you are seeking medication for a child, a child psychiatrist is your best bet, as this is their specialty.

In summary, a therapist/counselor/mental health practitioner, psychologists, psychiatrists, and APRNs can provide therapy services (though not all psychologists, psychiatrists, APRNs choose to offer therapy services). Of these 4 types of providers, only a psychiatrist or APRN can prescribe medication.

If you’ve decided you would like to start therapy services, head over to read How to Find a Therapist.

Disclaimer: I am a licensed independent mental health practitioner and certified professional counselor, but I am not your therapist. The information in this article is for general informational purposes only. This article does not create a therapist-client relationship. If you need specific recommendations based on your individual circumstances, please consult with a mental health practitioner near you.