If you or a loved one is struggling with a mental health problem or substance abuse issue, you may wonder what the difference between a therapist vs psychologist is. Mental health and addiction treatment include access to counselors, therapists, psychiatrists, and psychologists and it can be difficult to understand how these specialties differ. Evidence-based treatments are also utilized by both therapists and psychologists. Take care of your mental health and find the psychoeducation groups Utah residents rely on. A therapist is a licensed mental health professional and typically has a master’s degree. A therapist may also have additional certifications. Psychologists have either a Doctor of Psychology or a Ph.D. in psychology, which requires more schooling than a therapist. Therapists and psychologists are able to provide different types of treatment and testing.

Therapist vs Psychologist 

When exploring the difference between psychologist vs therapist, remember that both play an important role in treating mental health disorders. Working with both a therapist and psychologist can drastically improve your treatment outcomes. You can see both types of professionals in individual or group therapy sessions. In these settings, you can work on restoring your total health. Therapists typically have a master’s degree in psychology. A therapist can utilize evidence based therapeutic treatments and help you talk through your emotions. Therapists can also:

• Help you make decisions and identify your feelings

• Have additional licenses and graduate degrees

• Provide cognitive and dialectic behavioral therapy

• Provide marriage counseling

• Offer guidance and support

Psychologists have advanced graduate degrees, such as a PsyD or Ph.D. They have the ability to diagnose conditions and conduct psychological testing. Psychologists can also:

• Perform psychoanalysis

• Work with psychiatrists to develop treatment plans

• Conduct research and studies

• Conduct psychotherapy

• Perform surveys and assessments

Psychologists study human behavior and thought processes and must have a doctorate level graduate degree and additional training to obtain a license to practice. They are able to evaluate and give you a mental health diagnosis, which is something a therapist or counselor is unable to do. Additionally, psychologists may also provide therapy services.

How Therapy Helps During Recovery 

While understanding the difference between a therapist vs psychologist, you may wonder how they can help you recover from a mental health or substance abuse problem. Learning how to understand your emotions and how to cope with them in a healthy manner is paramount in treating mental health conditions. Regular sessions with a therapist or psychologist can be crucial when used alongside other addiction therapy services. Since mental illness and addiction are both chronic conditions, meaning that they are incurable, therapy can help you learn how to successfully manage your symptoms. Receiving a proper mental health assessment from a psychologist is a helpful first step in recovery. Therapy, like cognitive or dialectic behavioral therapy, can improve your ability to manage your mental health. Understanding what causes your symptoms to worsen is necessary to understand how to cope with your symptoms. As part of dual diagnosis treatment, these programs provide you with the opportunity to find a strong support network that can help you during recovery.

Finding Help Today

Mental health disorders require treatment. Whether you reach out to a therapist vs psychologist, reaching out for treatment is an important first step in the recovery process. Acqua Recovery is here to help you or a loved one navigate your treatment options. To learn more about how our programs can help you, call us today at 866.830.4628.