We will discuss the differences between Mental Health Counselors and Clinical Psychologists. If someone is depressed, has anxiety problems or other mental health issues, who can help? The professions in psychology appear similar at first glance, including clinical psychologists and counselors. Counselors and clinical psychologists do have something in common. Both deal with mental health issues and conduct research. In work, both clinical psychologists and counselors use psychotherapy, talk to clients, make clients describe their feelings and experiences.
Then, what are the differences between the professions of mental health counselors and clinical psychologists? Knowing the difference will help you decide which career to pursue.
Mental Health Counselor
Counselor comes from the Latin word ‘conselere’, which means to give advice. Mental health counselors usually work with clients’ emotional, social, physical issues that arise as a result of stress or problems related to work, school or family. Examples of issues commonly faced by counselors are relationship problems, difficulty adapting to changes in life and substance abuse. Counselors have the skills to make others feel comfortable to open up and be able to solve their problems. These jobs and skills are also present in clinical psychologists, but counselors are more client-centric, focusing on well-being rather than pathological diagnosis.
Counselors receive training on multiculturalism and a more holistic education. To become a mental health counselor, majoring in psychology is not mandatory. If you have counseling experience, the company also accepts counselors from graduates majoring in sociology, anthropology, and management.
Counselors generally work in educational institutions, companies and rehabilitation centers. Counselors can also open their own practice.
Clinical Psychologist
Clinical comes from the Greek word ‘kline’, which refers to the medical nurse who is provided at the patient’s “bedside”. But that does not mean that the application of clinical psychology is only limited to treating individual mental disorders. Clinical psychology can also be used in group therapy sessions.
In terms of education, clinical psychologists must study in the psychology department. After completing a bachelor’s degree in psychology, prospective clinical psychologists must pursue professional education. In terms of cases handled, clinical psychologists treat severe mental disorders such as severe depression, bipolar and schizophrenia. When dealing with clients, clinical psychologists focus on psychopathology or symptoms, distress and mental disorders. In contrast to counselors who place more emphasis on the counseling function, clinical psychologists may provide a pathological diagnosis. Clinical psychologists generally work in hospitals and mental health facilities. Just like counselors, clinical psychologists can also open their own practice.
The right choice
Once you understand the difference between a psychologist and a mental health counselor, you can determine which career path to take according to your interests and preferences. Becoming a counselor or clinical psychologist, you will be useful to improve the quality of life of others.