“Psychiatry” versus “psychology,” “CBT” versus “DBT,” “psychoanalysis” versus “psychotherapy”—if these terms confuse you, you are not alone. These terms can be difficult to understand because they have special meanings for different professions or groups. If you aren’t a part of these professions or groups, it is easy to use the words interchangeably and their real connotations can become hazy.

“Psychobabble” is a coined word (a portmanteau) that combines the terms “psychology” and “babble.” Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior, while “babble” is the utterance of empty words. According to Wikipedia, psychobabble is the use of psychological terms without “the experience and understanding necessary” to do so. These days, psychobabble is common outside psychology. In some instances, the term is used to refer to other technical language or jargon.

Like anyone else, I don’t understand all the jargon. As an active professional in the field of mental health, however, I am in the position to explain some of the psychobabble that most people may become easily confused about.

The Mental Health Counselor

In the field of mental health, professionals who assist people in understanding their behaviors, emotions, and/or thoughts are referred to as “mental health counselors.” It is a generic term that is commonly applied to the following types of professionals: therapist, counselor, psychiatrist, psychologist, family therapist, behavioral health provider, mental health provider, or marriage counselor.

People in this field understand when outsiders use these words interchangeably. What matters is that the public recognizes that we help people sort out and resolve their issues, assess and diagnose symptoms of behavioral/emotional conditions, and provide treatment when a condition/disorder has been diagnosed. Different types of professionals may perform these tasks and achieve their treatment goals in different ways.

If you or a loved one is in need of the assistance of a mental health counselor, it is sensible to understand the differences between these types of professionals to decide who can best help you.

Psychiatriatrist vs. Psychologists

• Similarities: Both professionals have received academic training in helping people with mental health conditions or issues. Both professionals can assess, diagnose, and treat emotional or behavioral conditions. They can both help talk you through your concerns and provide therapy and tools to manage your day-to-day issues.

• Both can be “doctors”: A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. They are well versed in the use of psychotropic medicines—anti-anxiety drugs, antidepressants, etc.—and, like any medical doctor, treat their patients by prescribing these medications. A psychologist may also be addressed as “Doctor” if they have successfully completed a doctorate degree (PhD or Psy.D). They are trained in research, clinical practice, and assessment, but they can’t write prescriptions in the state of NC.

• Medication vs. therapy: Psychiatrists are known to treat their patients using medication, while psychologists use various forms of therapy to achieve their treatment or wellness goals. A psychiatrist ensures that the medication will work by prescribing the right dosage and the ideal time of day to take it. Psychiatrists can also provide therapy to their patients, and psychologists can help clients with finding a provider for medication management. Aside from counseling, many psychologists can administer evaluations or tests—personality tests, aptitude tests, IQ tests, etc.

• Relationships with other professionals: Psychiatrists have a vast array of medical options to help their patients achieve functionality. As the only professionals who can prescribe psychotropic medication, they see patients referred by general practitioners and other mental health providers who cannot write prescriptions for these medications. Though most psychiatrists will help any patient seeking their help, they may prefer that their patients see therapists or other mental health providers first.

• When you need more guidance: Because there is a shortage of psychiatrists in North Carolina (and in other states), most can spend only 30 minutes to an hour with a patient during the first session and then 20 minutes or less in succeeding follow-up sessions. The time is generally spent on medication management. If you feel you or a loved one need more time and assistance or the symptoms are severe, seeing a psychologist or another therapist can serve as a “safety net” while also seeing a psychiatrist.

Other Mental Health Providers

Aside from psychologists and psychiatrists, you can seek help from the following other types of professionals:

• Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW): For a professional to earn this license, the prerequisites are a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) and completing the mandatory licensing requirements of the state. This usually requires the passing of a comprehensive licensure test after completing 2 years of supervised work. With their client focus and culture sensitivity training, LCSWs are most qualified to counsel couples, families, individuals, and small to large groups.

• Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors (LCMHC): This license requires candidates to finish a master’s or doctorate in counseling, or another related academic course. In addition, they must comply with all the requirements imposed by the state of North Carolina or any state where they intend to practice, as well as pass the national counseling exam. With this license, LCMHCs are qualified to work with people from all ages and social backgrounds.

• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT): A professional is qualified to take an LMFT state licensing exam if they complete the following requirements: 1) marriage and family therapy training and 2) clinical experience for a minimum of two years. Licensed marriage and family therapists specialize in treating couples and family systems.

• Pastoral Counselors: In North Carolina, pastoral counselors are licensed, while in some others they are certified. To receive their license or certification and to effectively perform their duties, they must have training in both theology and psychology. Many of them have advanced degrees in theology or divinity.
• Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners: PMHNPs are registered nurses with advanced degrees that are able to assess, diagnose and treat many mental health concerns with medication management. Some even provide counseling!
• Psychiatric Physician Assistants: PAs are also able to provide medication management after a thorough assessment to determine the best way to address your symptoms and concerns. 

Mental Health vs. Behavioral Health

Two other psychobabble terms that often cause confusion, even among professionals themselves, are “behavioral health” and “mental health.” Many mental health practitioners tend to interchange the words, but there is a wider preference for “behavioral.” This word denotes how an individual acts, while “mental” denotes how a person thinks.

In a Psychology Today post, author Elana Premack Sandler, LCSW, MPH, acknowledges the synonymous use of the two words. She emphasized that “behavioral” is a “gentler” and more preferable term to use for many, as it is less stigmatized than “mental.” “Behavior” also denotes something that can still be transformed or modified, and so it sounds positive and hopeful for those with a disorder or an addiction. These are the reasons why “behavioral health” is preferred in many facilities.

When you or a loved one are experiencing overwhelming emotions or symptoms, you will be glad you know whom to call. Don’t be deterred from seeking counseling or from getting help with your behavioral or emotional concerns. Call us: Carolina Counseling Services in Pittsboro, NC.