Types of Mental Health Providers

Psychiatrists are licensed physicians (MDs or DOs) that evaluate and diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe and monitor medications, and provide therapy.

Psychiatric or mental health nurse practitioners evaluate and diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe and monitor medications, and provide therapy. Similar to a psychiatrist, they are also qualified to prescribe and monitor medications (regulations vary by state).

Psychiatriatric pharmacists/psychopharmacologist (PharmD) are advanced-practice pharmacists who specialize in mental health care, including prescribing and monitoring medications.

Psychologists can evaluate and diagnose mental health conditions, assess patients' mental states, emotional processes, and behavior, and provide therapy. Clinical psychologists with specialized training can also complete more detailed psychological and neuropsychological assessments.

Clinical neuropsychologists (PhD) are clinical psychologists with specialized training who conduct detailed neuropsychological evaluations, including assessment of general intellectual abilities, language, attention, memory, motor skills, and emotional and behavioral functioning.

Licensed professional counselors (LPCs) are licensed mental health counselors who provide mental health and substance use care.

Licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFTs) are licensed to evaluate, diagnose, and treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of marriage, couples, and family systems.

Licensed clinical alcohol & drug abuse counselors (LCADACs) provide substance use counseling and diagnosis, prevent, treat, and ameliorate psychological problems, emotional conditions, or mental conditions of individuals or groups.

Clinical social workers (MSW) provide a range of social work services, including treatment for mental illnesses.

Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) are licensed clinical social workers who can evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients’ mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders under the continued clinical supervision of an LICSW.

Licensed independent clinical social workers (LICSWs) are licensed professionals who independently practice clinical social work, including the ability to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients’ mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. LICSWs work to restore or enhance patients’ social and psychosocial functioning.

More information:

• The National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) offers help finding mental health providers and links to support groups.

• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers 24-hour referral and support.

• SAMHSA's National Helpline800-662-HELP (4357)TTY: 800-487-4889