EAP: Variety Of Mental Health Professionals Available A variety of professionals are available to help people manage emotional problems, heal disrupted or hurt relationships or learn healthier ways to live, grow and relate. Most mental health professionals share an interest in helping others and some basic knowledge about people. These professionals, however, also have unique characteristics, framed by education, experience and focus. In choosing a professional, it is helpful to understand these characteristics. Psychiatrists: Medical doctors or doctors of osteopathy who have served a residency in psychiatry. Psychiatrists focus on making a diagnosis and, if medications are indicated, prescribing the appropriate ones. Some psychiatrists choose to engage in therapy with clients. However, many choose brief interactions with patients to evaluate effects of medication, and physical and emotional function. Psychologists (Licensed, Ph.D. or Psy.D.): Professionals who have completed a doctoral program, which includes practica and clinical internships, and a licensure examination. Psychologists use discussion and testing to make diagnoses. Most psychologists choose to work with individuals and to focus on ways to change behaviors, thoughts or feelings to improve mood, function and perception. Some develop an interest in working with couples or families, others focus on career counseling. Social workers: Professionals who have earned a bachelor's (BSW) or master's (MSW) degree in a social work program. BSW programs generally focus on working with clients in agencies or programs. MSW programs involve practica and supervised clinical experience. Many social workers use a systems approach to counseling. A systems framework particularly focuses on the relationships persons have with self, family, work, organizations and other entities. Marital and family therapists: Professionals who are skilled in working with individuals, couples and families. Family therapists use a systems framework to assess and intervene in interaction patterns. Educational background, experience and licensure vary. There are graduate degree programs (master's, doctoral) in family therapy; and Iowa began licensing marital and family therapists (L.M.F.T.) through examination in 1993. The criteria necessary to identify oneself as a marital and family therapist are less rigorous than for psychiatrists, psychologists and licensed social workers. Mental health counselors: There is opportunity to be licensed through examination as a mental heath counselor (MHC). However, persons also can acquire degrees in psychology, education, social work, sociology, industrial relations, family studies, human services or religious studies, or receive training in a specific technique and identify themselves as counselors. A counselor's skill and experience usually will be greatest in a specific area, such as eating disorders or financial counseling. Certified alcohol counselor: These providers are trained to assess and treat substance abuse. Three levels of certification (CAC I, II, III) are acquired through training. Certified alcohol counselors are not required to have academic degrees. They generally work in drug/alcohol treatment centers. Pastoral counselors: Many people seek input from spiritual leaders when they are troubled. Unless a pastor, priest or rabbi has pursued a counseling degree, pastoral counseling is a matter of personal interest in connecting with people and offering guidance. Mediator: Standards for identifying mediators vary greatly. There are centers that offer mediation training, from a few hours to more intensive work. There are certified mediators and an Academy of Mediators. Mediators work with parties to resolve disputes and negotiate an equitable outcome for conflicting parties. The process generally is less expensive and perceived as more humane than settlement via courts and attorneys. Ethics Professional therapists and counselors will hold themselves to a code of ethics. State licensing boards provide information regarding licensed people and investigate reports of practice and ethics violations. When choosing a mental health professional, seek information regarding licensure, educational background, certifications and special training, length of practice and number of clients, and skill and interest in working with you on your concerns. EAP staff are knowledgeable about mental health professionals in the area and can refer clients to these mental health professionals. For more information, contact EAP, 4-5069. _____ contact: Internal Communications, (515) 294-7065 updated: 7-7-95