Psychotherapists
All of the groups listed with Feel Good Austin are led by psychotherapists, trained professionals who provide therapy for mental health issues. In Texas, a psychotherapist may have one or more of a variety of titles including counselor, social worker, marriage and family therapist, and psychologist. In Austin, Texas clinics and private practices, these practitioners provide similar services, but there are some slight differences in their training.
Who's Who? Counselor, Social Worker, Psychologist in Austin
Texas marriage and family therapists (LMFT) are specifically trained in family systems theory [Family Counseling Austin, TX]. This theory views the family as a system and stresses the dynamics within this system rather than seeing problems as being caused by a single person.
A psychologist in Austin, TX has earned a doctoral degree, usually a Ph. D. or a Psy.D. The emphasis in Ph.D. psychology programs is on research methodologies. Psychologists have several career options including teaching at a university, providing psychotherapy in a clinical setting, and working in a scientific setting. Practitioners with a Psy.D are generally trained to provide psychotherapeutic services in a private setting.
Both counselors (LPC) and social workers (LCSW) are master's level professionals trained in a variety of psychological theories and approaches. They may emphasize a single approach in their practice or draw from several theories to support clients with personal, educational, relationship, and career issues. While counselors are concerned with individual growth and development, social workers (LCSW) are trained to focus on the strengths of the individual while keeping in mind the effects of broader societal issues, viewing the individual person within their family, within the community and larger culture. Some counselors and social workers offer their services in private settings, while others work in mental health organizations in Austin, TX. Psychologists, counselors, social workers, and marriage and family therapists all offer psychotherapy to individuals, couples, groups, and families.