Psychologists (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) are highly trained professionals in the area of mental health. They are trained specifically in observing behavior, evaluating thoughts and feelings, and helping individuals develop new patterns of behavior that enhance personal growth. Psychologists, after graduating from college, spend an average of five to seven years in training before receiving a doctorate. Psychologists additionally must complete a clinical internship in a hospital or organized health setting before graduation. After receiving their doctorate they must have a year of supervised training before being licensed to practice independently. Psychologists have specialty areas of expertise, such as children, families, education, neuropsychology, and many others. Psychologists are licensed by states. Renewal of this license depends upon holding to the ethics of the profession, demonstration of competence and requires continuing education.

Psychologists are unique in the mental health field in their training and use of psychodiagnostic instruments. These instruments are beneficial for evaluating symptoms and disorders such as ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, etc.

Psychiatrists (MD) are medical doctors have completed a residency in psychiatry, and are specialists in the prescription of medications for psychiatric problems. They are licensed by the state and are the only mental health specialists who can prescribe drugs. Some psychiatrists are also trained in psychotherapy and can provide both medication management and psychotherapy for their clients. They cannot do psychological testing.

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) have a master's level degree and must be licensed by the state-licensing agency. They are trained in both psychotherapy and social interventions aimed at helping the individual cope with problems in his or her environment, or dealing with government or social agencies. They cannot do psychological testing, nor prescribe medications.

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) have a master's degree in counseling or a related field and have completed a supervised internship post graduation. They must be licensed by the state to provide psychotherapy and must receive continuing education to maintain their professional license. They can provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and/or children depending upon their specialty. They can also administer some psychological tests depending upon their specific educational training.

Marriage, Family and Child Counselors (MFCCs or MFTs) have received at least a master's level advanced degree and are licensed by the state. They are trained in psychotherapy, working primarily with individuals and/or their families to ameliorate problems.