MSW Master of Social Work

A Masters of Social Work emphasizes clinical skills with usually and emphasis on social policy and justice and is typically a two-year graduate degree.

 

Ph.D./Psy.D./Ed.D. Doctorate of Philosophy/ Doctorate of Psychology/ Doctorate of Education

The Doctorate Degree includes the completion of a master’s degree. The additional education emphasizes research, science and clinical or education skill related to the chosen field (e.g., marriage and family therapy, psychology, education) and is typically a four year program.

 

Licenses for Mental Health Professionals

 

Licensed Professional Counselor/ Clinical Counselor (LPC/LPCC)

This is typically the license that professionals obtain after they earn a MA/MS degree. They may specialize in a variety of counseling areas: mental health, community, school, career, etc. (KY Board of Licensed Professional Counselors)

 

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

This is typically the license that a professional obtains after they earn an MSW degree.

 

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

This is typically the license that a professional obtains after they earn a degree specializing in marriage and family therapy.

 

Psychologist – A professional who has completed an accredited psychology program becomes a Licensed

Psychologist, Psychological Associate or Practitioner.

What do all these letters mean? Most industries have their own lexicon (words and abbreviations used in the field). Understanding the language of mental health, the license, degrees, and specialties can be helpful when choosing who to see.

Professional Degrees

 

Professional degrees or education levels in counseling and psychotherapy are offered in many different types of graduate schools. Therefore, the degree usually reflects the emphasis of study by the counselor/therapist.

 

M.A./M.S. Master of Arts or Science

Often a Masters degree is offered within a liberal arts graduate program therefore the term “Arts” is part of the degree. If the term “Science” is used, the program may have been more science based. These degrees emphasize clinical skills and are typically a two-three year graduate program.

FAQ’s and the A-B-C’S of Mental Health Counseling/Therapy