When it comes to seeking help for mental health issues, many people are unsure of the difference between a therapist and a counselor. Both professions involve helping people deal with their mental health, but there are some key differences. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between therapists and counselors, as well as the benefits of each profession.
Therapists are licensed professionals who have completed a graduate-level program in psychology. They typically work with individuals or families to help them resolve mental health issues. Counselors, on the other hand, are not necessarily licensed professionals. They typically have a degree in counseling or another related field, and they work with people to help them achieve their goals.
They Key Differences Between Therapists and Counselors
One of the key differences between therapists and counselors is that therapists typically provide more intensive treatment than counselors. Therapists often use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a type of evidence-based treatment that can be very effective in treating mental health issues. Counselors may also use CBT, but they may also use other approaches such as person-centered therapy or motivational interviewing.
Therapists typically have a license from their state, which means that they have met certain requirements and are held to a high standard. Counselors may be licensed or unlicensed; however, many states now require counselors to be licensed in order to call themselves counselors.
There are also some key differences in the way that therapists and counselors bill for their services. Therapists often charge by the hour, while counselors may charge by the session or by package. This can vary depending on the counselor’s practice.
The Difference in Treatment Programs
Therapists provide more intensive treatment than counselors and are held to a higher standard. They typically use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is an evidence-based approach that can be very effective in treating a range of issues. Counselors, on the other hand, use a variety of therapeutic approaches and may not have as much training in evidence-based treatments. However, they are still able to provide valuable support and guidance.
So Which is Right For You?
If you’re looking for intensive treatment or want to work with someone who uses CBT, then a therapist might be a good fit. If you’re looking for more general counseling or prefer to work with someone who uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, then a counselor may be better suited for you. At Next Steps Professional Counseling we have both therapists and counselors so give us a call to learn more about the services we can provide you with.
