Definitions and Degree Criteria

Each state may have different education criteria or different names for mental health professionals. The following information is based on California’s definition. If you need assistance in the type of questions to ask to help you make a better-informed decision, please do not hesitate to e-mail me at OBSPEACE@cs.com

• Psychologist, PhD – Provides counseling, psychotherapy and psychological testing. Most clinicians take insurance and Medicare.
• Psychiatrist, MD – A medical doctor who provides medication assessment. Some will provide counseling, psychotherapy and psychiatric testing; however, a psychiatrist’s primary functions are medication assessment and evaluation. Most doctors accept insurance.
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCW, LCSW) – Master’s degrees with 3,200 hours of written and oral exams toward licensure. Provides mental health services, counseling, psychotherapy and some testing.
• Marriage, Family Counselor (MFT, MFCC) – Master’s degrees in counseling. Provides counseling and psychotherapy for relationship issues. May accept some insurance.

How do I get help?

1. Ask a friend or colleague you trust.
2. Call your insurance provider and get three names of professionals in your area who specialize in treating your particular problem, e.g., depression, anxiety, etc.
3. Speak with your physician.
4. Speak with your prosthetist.
5. Call your county mental health association and ask for three clinicians in your area.

• National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
• American Psychological Association (APA)
• American Medical Board (AMA)
• Call the ACA office toll-free (1-888/AMP-KNOW)

About the Author:

Omal Bani Saberi is an above-knee bilateral amputee. She is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a certified clinical hypnotherapist (CCHT) with Master’s Degrees in Social Work and Counseling Psychology. Currently, she is in private practice, providing mental health services, including counseling and psychotherapy. You may reach her by e-mail at OBSPEACE@cs.com

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