Therapist-Psychologist: To-may-to, To-mah-to???
Most people seeking psychological and mental health services do not know the degree their clinician holds, or the difference between degrees. The generic term “therapist” is broadly applied to clinicians, regardless of degree. For example, it is not widely known that:
- The term “therapist” requires absolutely no degree or training
- The term “Psychologist” may only be used by those holding a Doctorate degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.)
- The term “Clinical Psychologist” may only be used by Doctorate Degree holders who have also taken and passed State Licensing exams.
Click here to read Wikipedia’s brief overview of the differences in training and education for different degree types
