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Mental Health Doctors and Counselors If you notice that a lack of interest or a constant sadness interfere with your life you should seek out professional help. Consult your primary care physician to rule out medical causes for the symptoms. Find out about the doctor's education, training, licensing and the number of years of experience. Also, inquire about the insurance providers the provider accepts and the hours of operation. Psychiatrists Psychiatrists are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health issues. They are employed in many different settings including hospitals as well as private practice. They are trained to listen and explain the treatment options to patients in a clear and understandable manner. They can also monitor the physical health of a patient, as certain mental illnesses can affect things like blood pressure and weight. A psychiatric diagnosis is based on an in-depth analysis of symptoms. These symptoms can be compared with the descriptions and criteria for disorders found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders which is published by the American Psychiatric Association. Psychologists can also conduct and interpret medical lab tests. They take into account the patient's physical condition and family background to make a diagnosis. Depending on an individual's needs and preferences, psychotherapy or medication can be utilized. The use of medication is to alter chemical signals in the brain and to reduce symptoms of certain mental disorders. These include sedatives for anxiety and depression, antidepressants, and sleep aids. Psychotherapy is a different type of therapy that is offered by psychiatrists. It aims to change negative patterns of thinking and behavior. Psychotherapy could be either short-term or long-term. It can be a single session or a continuous therapy. In some cases, psychiatrists may recommend alternative or complementary therapies like music therapy or art therapy. Some of these therapies are being investigated to determine their effectiveness in reducing severity of certain mental health problems. Psychiatrists are found in a variety of settings including carrying a stethoscope around their necks in a hospital ward to sitting in an area with a patient talking about their issues. They are often found in community clinics or conducting home assessments. Those interested in becoming a psychiatrist first need to complete an undergraduate degree. Numerous universities offer pre-medical courses which help students fulfill the prerequisites. Then, they must take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). If they pass the MCAT they can apply to an MD or DO psychiatry college. After graduation, they have to complete an entire four-year residency in psychiatry and then become licensed in the state where they plan to practice. Counselors The term “counselors” can be used to describe the wide variety of professionals, including psychologists and social workers, as also marriage and family therapists. They are all state-licensed therapists. Some do not prescribe medication while others have a specialization in mental health. Ask for recommendations from other health care professionals or trusted friends when selecting the right counselor. You can also search the Internet to find a service. Some companies offer phone consultations. In the initial session, you will be asked about your personal history, family history, hobbies, work, and relationships. Counselors are available in a variety of settings, including family services centers, career counseling, substance abuse and behavioral disorders clinics, hospitals, and private practices. Some counselors specialize in a certain category, such as the incarcerated and children. Some have general practice and work with all types of patients. Some specialize in a specific field, such as career or school counseling. Many people who seek counseling do so because they are experiencing mental anxiety. Often, counseling can aid in reducing stress by teaching coping strategies and providing support. Counselors can also spot a condition or illness, and refer the person to a psychologist or psychiatrist for further treatment options. Individuals who choose to become counselors must complete a master's program, typically in clinical mental health or professional school counseling and gain experience under supervision prior to becoming licensed in their State. Some counselors opt to specialize, like in school or career counseling. Others pursue national certification through the American Counseling Association. Some States permit Licensed Professional Counselors to diagnose but not always. Burgin is one of those who is pursuing an PhD in counseling psychology or clinical psychology. It typically takes between five and six years. Social workers Mental health social workers offer counseling and community resources for clients with mental illnesses. They assist individuals and their families cope with life's events that may cause or exacerbate symptoms of mental illness. They also address social issues that cause mental health problems. For instance, they can provide people with services to help ease poverty and homelessness, which could exacerbate anxiety disorders. They can also aid veterans adjust to civilian life. A psychiatric social worker may be employed in the public sector, in private practice or as a non-profit organisation. They must be licensed by their state's board for social workers. Psychiatric Social Workers typically hold a minimum of a master's and a long-standing clinical experience. They can assist those suffering from severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They can also help their clients find housing and jobs, in addition to therapy. They can teach their clients how to deal with depression and stress. Social workers can aid those who are addicted to alcohol or drugs, and can help them find rehabilitation programs. A mental health professional can provide crisis intervention for those who are suffering from an emotional crisis. These crises can include suicide attempts, drug overdoses or psychotic episode. They can also assist those suffering from chronic illness with advocacy and support services for family and group members. Therapists employ various techniques to treat anxiety, depression and phobias as well as other conditions. extra resources are able to provide individual and group therapy sessions and employ a variety of techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialogical behavior therapy, and animal-assisted therapies. They may also prescribe medications when needed. Counselors who hold a bachelor's degree can also assist their patients deal with mental health issues. They can conduct individual and group counseling sessions, and teach how to manage stress and encourage active involvement in the treatment of their clients. They may also refer clients to social service organizations and community health centers or psychiatric hospital. A therapist who has an advanced degree can be found in a variety of settings, like private practices, hospitals, and treatment centers. You can ask your doctor or psychologist, or even your insurance company for a referral to a qualified therapist. Most insurers post an approved list of providers on their websites. Psychologists Psychologists are trained to understand the connections between brain and behavior. They study this connection and apply it to assist patients with mental health issues. Psychologists may also specialize in different areas, like clinical psychology as well as child and adolescent psychology, or forensic psychology. These areas of expertise can impact the kind of care a psychologist provides to patients. If you visit a psychologist, they'll begin by asking you questions about your symptoms and the time that you've experienced these symptoms for. They will inquire about your work and family life as well. They will also want to know what, if any, you have done about your symptoms in the past. They might prescribe medication based on the extent and duration of your symptoms. If you're not comfortable with medication for psychiatric disorders, you can opt to consult an therapist or counselor instead. If, however, you're suffering with severe anxiety or depression, it's best to see an psychiatric specialist for assistance. The medication they prescribe can help alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life. Psychiatrists are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of mental health problems. They are licensed to practice in their states and have completed an internship and a residency. They must also pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) which is administered by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards. Psychologists hold a master's degree in psychology and have undergone the training to become clinical. They are able to assist patients with a variety of treatments and work with other professionals such as therapists or counselors to create a comprehensive plan. The term “psychiatry” is often used in conjunction with psychology, but they are two distinct professions with distinct career pathways. Psychiatrists treat disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, while psychologists understand the brain and can offer more comprehensive care. In addition to their clinical responsibilities, they can also do research and academic work. Understanding the differences between two kinds of mental health professionals is crucial when choosing the best doctor for you.