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Professional designations for the mental health professions
Ph.D. (Doctor of philosophy)
The Ph.D. is an academic degree focusing on research, theory, and
statistics. A large percentage of psychologists hold a Ph.D. and are
also fully trained in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological conditions.
Ph.D.'s that do not enter clinical practice often hold research and
professor positions at universities and other learning institutions.
Psy.D. (Doctor of psychology)
The Psy.D. closely resembles the Ph.D. except that the Psy.D. degree
focuses completely on therapy and counseling instead of research.
M.D. (Medical Doctor)
Mental health practitioners who have an M.D. are typically psychiatrists.
Psychiatrists complete four years of medical school as well as an additional
four years of psychiatry residency. In addition to the diagnosis and
treatment of mental conditions carried out by psychologists, psychiatrists
are able to prescribe medication and decide whether the problem is caused
by a physical or mental condition.
M.S.W. (Master of social work)
The M.S.W. degree generally requires two to four years of study and
focuses on the treatment of social/community issues such as child abuse,
drug addiction, and domestic violence.
A licensed clinical social worker has either a national or state license
to practice and holds a graduate degree. The license is given following
an exam and completion of prerequisites including supervised clinical
work experience.
M.A. - M.C. - M.S. (Master of arts, counseling,
or science)
These degrees typically require two years of graduate study in either
counseling or psychology. Most counselors and social workers hold one
of these degrees, and most Ph.D.'s have earned one on the way to the
Ph.D.
Ed.D. (Doctor of education)
Typically the Ed.D. is a four year graduate degree designed for a
career in child development, assessment, and education.
L.M.F.T. - M.F.C.C (Licensed marriage and
family therapist)
A licensed marriage therapist can hold either a 2 to 3 year masters
degree, or a four year doctorate. In order to practice they must pass
the licensing exam for their particular state as well as completing
1000 hours of individual or family therapy.
