Changes

There are many different types of training and school involved in qualifying to work in the mental health field. These levels define the types of work that a provider is allowed to engage in; however, they are distinct from the '''theoretical orientations''' that a therapist might have. It should be noted that the term "therapist" is not exclusive to any one of the fields of psychology, psychotherapy, psychiatry, social work and mental health nursing.

There are many different types of training and school involved in qualifying to work in the mental health field. These levels define the types of work that a provider is allowed to engage in; however, they are distinct from the '''theoretical orientations''' that a therapist might have. It should be noted that the term "therapist" is not exclusive to any one of the fields of psychology, psychotherapy, psychiatry, social work and mental health nursing. Many fields within therapy require advanced degrees and licensure in order to practice.

== Professional credentials ==

== Professional credentials ==

A '''psychiatrist''' is a medical doctor specializing in the treatment of mental health problems.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.healthyminds.org/whatisapsychiatrist.cfm|publisher=American Psychiatric Association|title=What is a Psychiatrist?}}</ref>

A '''psychiatrist''' is a medical doctor (M.D.) specializing in the treatment of mental health problems.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.healthyminds.org/whatisapsychiatrist.cfm|publisher=American Psychiatric Association|title=What is a Psychiatrist?}}</ref>

*Psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of [[mental illness]] and emotional disorders.<ref>http://www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/counselling/psychologist_vs_psychiatrist.cfm</ref> As Medical Doctors they are permitted to prescribe drugs to treat problems when appropriate. It should be noted that not all psychotherapists are psychiatrists, and not all psychiatrists are psychotherapists.

*Psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of [[mental illness]] and emotional disorders.<ref>http://www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/counselling/psychologist_vs_psychiatrist.cfm</ref> As Medical Doctors they are permitted to prescribe drugs to treat problems when appropriate. It should be noted that not all psychotherapists are psychiatrists, and not all psychiatrists are psychotherapists.

A '''psychologist''' has a Ph.D. in psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)<ref>[http://www.psichi.org/pubs/articles/article_171.asp Appreciating the PsyD: The Facts.] Accessed April 30, 2007.</ref> degree.

A '''psychologist''' has a Ph.D. in psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)<ref>[http://www.psichi.org/pubs/articles/article_171.asp Appreciating the PsyD: The Facts.] Accessed April 30, 2007.</ref> degree.

*Not only does the field of psychology use research to assess the effectiveness of various forms of treatment, but also any particular psychologist trained in research should have acquired some solid skills useful for analyzing information and drawing conclusions in psychotherapy sessions.<ref>[http://www.guidetopsychology.com/psypsy.htm Psychology and Psychiatry (and Psychoanalysis).] Accessed April 30, 2007.</ref> It should be noted that not all psychotherapists are psychologists, and not all psychologists are psychotherapists.

*Not only does the field of psychology use research to assess the effectiveness of various forms of treatment, but also any particular psychologist trained in research should have acquired some solid skills useful for analyzing information and drawing conclusions in psychotherapy sessions.<ref>[http://www.guidetopsychology.com/psypsy.htm Psychology and Psychiatry (and Psychoanalysis).] Accessed April 30, 2007.</ref> It should be noted that not all psychotherapists are psychologists, and not all psychologists are psychotherapists. There are a number of subfields within psychology, with most therapists being clincal psychologists.

A person with an '''MSW''' (Master of Social Work) may have a graduate degree in methods of talk therapy.

A person with an '''MSW''' (Master of Social Work) may have a graduate degree in methods of talk therapy.