15.1

Some of the Professionals Who Treat Psychological Disorders

Professional Field

Training and Emphasis

Clinical psychologist

Trained not only in principles of psychological science, but also in the application of those principles to the diagnosis of, and provision of therapy for, psychological disorders

Counseling psychologist

Training and professional activities similar to those of clinical psychology, but with particular emphasis on the provision of advice (regarding not only mental health, but also personal and vocational development)

Psychiatrist

Physician trained in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, with particular emphasis on the biological basis of disorders and the use of drugs to combat them

Social worker

Trained in the provision of counseling and therapy, with particular emphasis on environmental factors (social and community contexts) that impact individual well-being