Understanding the Different Types of Mental Health Professionals: Who’s Right for You?

Navigating mental health care can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to figure out who to turn to for support. With so many different professionals out there, understanding who does what is a key step in finding the right fit for your needs.

Understanding the Different Types of Mental Health Professionals: Who’s Right for You?

If you're considering mental health treatment, one of the first—and often most confusing—steps is figuring out which kind of professional is best suited for your needs. Whether you're seeking therapy, medication, or both, understanding who does what can help you take that first step with clarity and confidence.

Below is a breakdown of the most common types of mental health professionals, their training, and how they might support you.

Psychiatrists

Degree: Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.)
Training: Medical school + 4 years residency + optional fellowship
License: Medical Board of California
Board Certification: American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
What They Do: Diagnose mental illnesses, prescribe/manage medication, and offer therapy

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMH-NPs)

Degree: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a psychiatric focus
Training: Advanced clinical training in mental health
License: Certified as Nurse Practitioners with psychiatric specialization
Board Certification: American Nurses Credentialing Center (PMHNP-BC)
What They Do: Provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications, and offer therapy

Psychologists

Degree: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)
Training: Graduate school + Internship + Fellowship
License: California Board of Psychology
Board Certification: American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP)
What They Do: Provide therapy and/or psychological assessments

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs)

Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.) or Master of Science (M.S.) in Counseling
Training: 3,000 hours of supervised experience
License: California Board of Behavioral Sciences
What They Do: Therapy for individuals, couples, and groups with a focus on development & wellness

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs)

Degree: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Training: 3,000 hours of supervised experience
License: California Board of Behavioral Sciences
What They Do: Provide therapy and connect clients to community resources

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs)

Degree: M.A. or M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy (or related)
Training: 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work
License: California Board of Behavioral Sciences
What They Do: Provide therapy for individuals, couples, and families with a relational approach

How to Choose the Right Provider

When selecting a mental health professional, consider

Your specific concerns (e.g., depression, trauma, medication needs)
The provider's training, licensure, and therapeutic approach
Their availability, fees, and location
Most importantly, your comfort level with them

Need Help Finding the Right Fit?

The Mind Health Institute, Orange County has a multidisciplinary team ready to support you. Whether you're seeking therapy, psychiatric care, testing, or a combination of these, we’ll help you find the right match.

Contact Us:

Mind Health Institute, Newport Beach
450 Newport Center Drive, Suite 380
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 891-0307 | www.mhi-oc.com

Mind Health Institute, Laguna Beach
361 Forest Avenue, Suite 205
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 391-4669 | www.mhi-lb.com

Mind Health Institute, Dana Point
33971 Selva Road, Suite 200
Dana Point, CA 92629
(949) 354-0630 | www.mhi-lb.com

This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical or mental health treatment. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized support.