What are the differences in mental health professionals?

Ever wonder the difference between a psychologist vs. a psychiatrist vs. an MFT?

• Psychiatrist: A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor that attended medical school for 4 years typically. This MD then went on and specialized in psychiatry for a number of years. Psychiatrists primarily meet with patients for a shorter period of time than other providers and their main role is to evaluate your symptoms and prescribe psychiatric medications. Most psychiatrists are not trained in talk therapy. Psychiatrists are regulated by the California Medical Association and are usually Board certified in Psychiatry.

• Clinical Psychologist: A Clinical Psychologist is a mental health professional that has completed 4 years of undergraduate studies in psychology. Then they pursue graduate studies that range from 4-6 years. Dr. Grover completed a 6 year Ph.D. program. Clinical psychologists are trained in many aspects of psychotherapy theory and technique to aid in alleviating many types of problems such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder etc. Psychologists are also trained in conducting research. Lastly, psychologists are the only mental health professionals that are trained in psychological testing or psychological assessment. Psychological assessment involves giving clients psychological tests that are designed to provide very specific information about clients and compare them to other people that have taken the tests before. This can often aid in confirming one's diagnosis, learning more about your personality, assessing strengths and weaknesses of your personality, assessing the way you think and percieve information, 4-5 years of clinical training at multiple sites. Psychologists are licensed by the State of California Board of Psychology.

• Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT's): MFT's typically spend two years in graduate school. They learn basics of therapy and technique. Most MFT programs focus on teaching how to do couples therapy, family therapy and some individual therapy. MFT’s are not typically trained in thorough diagnosis and treating more severe psychological conditions. MFT’s are also not typically trained in psychological assessment.

• Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW): LCSW's typically spend two years in graduate school. LCSW’s often work in hospitals, medical social work, adoptions/foster care, with families and are often strong advocates for their patients. Not all social workers are trained in psychotherapy.