Frequently Asked Questions
What is the
difference between a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Clinical
Psychologist, and a Psychiatrist?
A Marriage and Family Therapist
has a master’s degree in
psychology, counseling psychology, clinical psychology, or marital and
family therapy. Emphasis is on primary service in counseling and
psychotherapy from a variety of therapeutic orientations with
individuals, couples, families, and groups.
A Psychologist possesses a
doctoral degree in psychology or a related field with a license to
practice therapy and often conducts psychological testing and research.
A Psychiatrist is a medical
doctor who specializes in psychiatry. Emphasis is on
prescribing and monitoring psychotropic medications and sometimes
offers psychotherapy.
What should I ask a potential therapist?
•
Inquire about the therapist's training,
education, and commitment to his or her professional development.
• Ask what type of therapy is utilized. How is this different from other
types of therapy? What should you expect?
• Does the therapist have a treatment agreement? The treatment agreement
will likely cover fees, appointments, cancellations, limits of
confidentiality, etc.
What should I ask myself?
•
What do I hope to gain from therapy? Will this therapist help me do
that?
• Am I comfortable with this therapist? Would I want to come back?
•
Do I feel assured that the therapist is qualified to help me with the
issues or concerns that have motivated me to seek therapy at this time?
• Am I willing to do the work necessary to participate in therapy?
I
tried therapy before and it didn’t work, why should I try it again?
•
Sometimes the chemistry between the therapist and client or the
therapeutic modality just isn’t a good fit. Just as you sometimes have
to switch medication, you may need to switch therapists or treatment
modalities to achieve success.
• Therapy works best when you are open to it and are actually willing to
participate in your own healing.