Psychologist vs. Therapist vs. Counselor: What's the Difference?
Finding the right mental health professional can feel confusing, especially when you're trying to figure out whether you need a psychologist, therapist, or counselor. These terms are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation, which only adds to the uncertainty. But while they may all help people improve their mental and emotional well-being, they come from different educational backgrounds, follow different approaches, and sometimes specialize in different kinds of support.
Maybe you're looking for someone to help you process a recent life change, manage anxiety, improve your relationship, or even explore past trauma. Or perhaps you're searching for a deeper understanding of a mental health condition or considering medication and want to know where to start. No matter your situation, understanding the unique roles of psychologists, therapists, and counselors can empower you to make the right decision for your mental health care.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences in education, licensing, areas of expertise, and treatment styles. We’ll also share tips to help you decide which type of provider might be the best fit for your needs—whether you’re looking for support here in Denver, Colorado, or exploring options nationwide.
What Is a Psychologist?
Education & Training:
A psychologist is a licensed mental health professional who has completed a doctoral-level education—either a Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) or a Psy.D. (Doctor of Psychology)—in psychology. Becoming a psychologist typically involves 5 to 7 years of graduate training, including intensive coursework, research, and supervised clinical internships. After earning their doctorate, psychologists must also pass national and state licensing exams and complete thousands of hours of supervised practice to gain licensure.
Their education is heavily grounded in both clinical treatment and psychological research, meaning psychologists are trained not only in providing therapy but also in understanding and conducting scientific studies related to human behavior, cognition, and mental health. Many specialize in evidence-based treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Roles & Responsibilities:
Psychologists offer a range of services, but some of their unique capabilities include:
Diagnosing mental health disorders using clinical interviews and standardized assessments
Administering psychological testing, such as IQ tests, personality assessments, or evaluations for ADHD, autism, and other conditions
Providing therapy for individuals, couples, and families
Consulting with other medical professionals, such as psychiatrists or primary care doctors
Engaging in research or teaching in university settings
Psychologists are especially equipped to work with complex or severe mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma-related disorders, or personality disorders. They can help clients explore long-term patterns, identify root causes of distress, and build coping strategies supported by decades of research.
Prescribing Medication:
In most states, psychologists cannot prescribe medication. However, they often collaborate with psychiatrists, who are medical doctors, to ensure clients receive well-rounded care. In some states (like New Mexico and Louisiana), psychologists with additional specialized training may gain limited prescribing privileges, but this is not the norm.
Where They Work:
Psychologists often work in private practices, mental health clinics, hospitals, universities, or research institutions. Some focus solely on therapy, while others split their time between clinical work and academic research.
Example: Let’s say someone has been struggling with symptoms of depression for several years, has tried basic coping strategies without relief, and is wondering whether they might have a more complex mental health condition. A psychologist can perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine if there’s an underlying disorder and then offer a research-informed treatment plan. Or, if a child is experiencing learning difficulties or behavioral concerns at school, a psychologist can conduct testing to explore potential neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD or autism.
Trusted Resource:
The American Psychological Association (APA) defines psychologists as experts trained in the study of the mind and behavior, who use scientific methods to understand and help people cope with a wide range of psychological issues.
What Is a Therapist?
Education & Training:
The term “therapist” is a broad, umbrella term that refers to licensed professionals who provide mental health treatment through talk therapy. These professionals may hold titles such as:
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
And in some cases, psychologists are also referred to as therapists if they provide talk therapy.
Most therapists hold a master’s degree in their specific field (typically requiring 2–3 years of graduate study), followed by thousands of supervised clinical hours and passing a state licensing exam. Although their academic focus varies slightly depending on their licensure path, therapists are trained in counseling theories, clinical diagnosis, ethics, and the practice of delivering therapy in a variety of formats.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Therapists work with people to identify, understand, and manage a wide range of mental health and emotional challenges. Their scope is quite broad and includes:
Providing individual, couples, or family therapy
Helping clients manage stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and relationship issues
Teaching coping skills and emotional regulation tools
Addressing behavioral challenges, life transitions, self-esteem, and burnout
Referring to other providers (e.g., psychologists or psychiatrists) when needed
Many therapists specialize in evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), or mindfulness-based therapy. Some also focus on specific populations, such as adolescents, couples, trauma survivors, or LGBTQ+ clients.
Where They Work:
Therapists practice in a wide variety of settings: private practices, group practices, community mental health centers, schools, hospitals, and employee assistance programs. The versatility of their training allows them to work in both short-term and long-term care settings.
Licensing & Scope:
Therapists are licensed by state boards, and each license type has its own requirements. For example, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) may have training in both therapy and connecting clients to community support resources, while a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) is highly trained in relational and systems-based therapy. Despite these differences, all licensed therapists are qualified to diagnose and treat mental health conditions within their scope.
Example: Imagine you're overwhelmed with stress and struggling to juggle parenting, work, and your own emotional well-being. A therapist can help you unpack those layers, explore where that overwhelm is coming from, and work with you on practical tools to manage your anxiety, set boundaries, and reconnect with your goals. Or, if you're in a relationship facing communication issues or emotional distance, a therapist trained in couples therapy (like an LMFT) can guide you through rebuilding trust and emotional connection.
“Therapist” vs. “Counselor” – Is There a Difference?
In everyday language, “therapist” and “counselor” are often used interchangeably. Both provide talk therapy and help with mental health challenges, and both typically hold a master’s degree and a professional license. The key difference often lies in the training emphasis or practice setting: therapists may take a broader or more long-term approach, while counselors often focus on short-term, goal-oriented solutions—but there's significant overlap. In fact, your therapist might technically be an LPC (counselor) but choose to use the title “therapist” in private practice.
Collaborative Care:
Therapists frequently work in tandem with other healthcare providers. For example, if they notice that a client may benefit from medication or further evaluation, they’ll refer out to a psychiatrist or psychologist. This collaborative model ensures that clients receive the most comprehensive care possible.
Trusted Resource:
Learn more about different types of therapists and their roles at Choosing Therapy and Verywell Mind.
Comparing Psychologists, Therapists, and Counselors
While all three professionals help people improve their mental health, they differ in education, training, and how they deliver care. Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the right type of support based on your needs.
Psychologists hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and are trained to diagnose and treat more complex mental health disorders. They often conduct psychological testing and use research-backed approaches to therapy.
Therapists is a broader term that includes various licensed professionals like LPCs, LMFTs, and LCSWs. They typically hold a master’s degree and offer talk therapy for a wide range of emotional and relational challenges.
Counselors usually focus on short-term, solution-focused care. Like therapists, they hold a master’s degree and are licensed to treat common mental health concerns, often in schools, community agencies, or private practice.
Although their titles differ, each plays a valuable role in supporting mental wellness. The right fit comes down to the nature of the issue, your preferences, and the provider’s specialty.
Conclusion
Choosing the right mental health professional depends on your specific needs and the type of support you're seeking. Whether you decide on a psychologist, therapist, or counselor, the most important factor is the connection and comfort level you feel with your provider. For more information and resources, visit the links provided to find the best fit for your mental health journey.
For personalized guidance and access to our experienced therapists, contact South Denver Therapy to schedule a free consultation and find the right professional to meet your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the main difference between a psychologist and a therapist?
A: The main difference is education and scope. Psychologists have a doctoral degree and are trained to diagnose and treat more complex mental health conditions, often using assessments and testing. Therapists usually hold a master’s degree and provide talk therapy for a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues.
Q: Can a counselor be called a therapist?
A: Yes, in many cases. “Therapist” is a broad term that can include counselors, social workers, and marriage and family therapists. While there may be differences in training or approach, both provide mental health support.
Q: Do psychologists prescribe medication?
A: In most states, no. Psychologists are not medical doctors and generally cannot prescribe medication. However, they often collaborate with psychiatrists or primary care doctors if medication is needed.
Q: Is therapy covered by insurance?
A: Most licensed psychologists, therapists, and counselors are eligible for insurance reimbursement. Coverage depends on your provider, the professional’s credentials, and whether they are in-network. Always check with your insurance company beforehand.
Q: How do I choose the right provider for me?
A: Consider the type of support you need, the severity of your symptoms, and personal comfort. If you need a diagnosis or are dealing with complex symptoms, a psychologist might be a better fit. For general stress, relationship concerns, or life transitions, a therapist or counselor can be very effective. It’s okay to start with one and switch if needed.
