The Role of a Therapist or Counselor
The terms “psychotherapist” and “counselor” are often used interchangeably when they offer mental health counseling and therapy but vary in education pathways. Both clinician groups are required to be licensed or certified by state or national regulatory bodies, which typically involves meeting specific education, training, and supervised experience requirements, as well as passing licensure exams.
They work primarily with individuals, couples, families, and groups, and they may provide long-term therapy for issues such as trauma, chronic mental health conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, Substance or Alcohol abuse.