What is the difference between counseling psychology and counselor education

Apply to a counseling program today! Published by Alliant International University. What is Clinical Psychology? What is Counseling Psychology? Why APA accreditation matters. Clinical and counseling psychology: Can differences be gleaned from printed recruiting materials? Training and Education in Professional Psychology, 2 3 , Norcross, J.

Selecting a doctoral program in professional psychology: Some comparisons among PhD counseling, PhD clinical, and PsyD clinical psychology programs. Most counseling programs focus on providing students with the practical skill set to guide clients through life challenges. The core concepts covered typically include:. Counseling programs train students to be discerning consumers of research who responsibly incorporate current, credible information into their practice.

Mental health counselors may administer therapeutic tests under the supervision of licensed psychologists or if they themselves hold a doctorate. Counseling programs generally share this commitment to caring for the whole person, though every curriculum has its own approach or perspective.

Because of these limitations, many students go on to pursue a doctorate, such as a PsyD in clinical psychology, a competitive degree program that usually lasts five years. Students explore research methods, both quantitative and qualitative, and statistical procedures in detail.

Practicing psychologists use the results of psychometric assessments to guide work with clients. While a counselor helps clients achieve overall wellness, a psychologist analyzes clients from an exact scientific perspective and then treats their individual problems.

Counseling psychologists often conduct psychological assessments and administer diagnostic tests to clients, while counselors tend to focus less on using these tools. Additionally, state laws can dictate the types of assessments a counselor can offer and may require that administration of these tests be supervised by a psychologist. Counseling psychologists typically work with clients who have serious mental health conditions. Both professionals provide important mental health services that are designed to help people overcome challenges and optimize their well-being.

Counselors and psychologists can both choose to specialize in a particular area, which can be related to the setting they practice in or the type of clients they work with. Specializing generally requires additional education, training, and licensure, and may require research, internships, or fieldwork. Counselors may choose to focus on a specialty area such as school counseling, career counseling , marriage and family counseling, mental health counseling, and addiction counseling.

Counselors can go by different titles depending on the type of education they received, the population of clients they work with, and the settings they practice in.

Counseling psychologists may choose to specialize in areas such as substance abuse, child development, health psychology , community psychology, crisis intervention, or developmental disabilities. While counselors and counseling psychologists perform many similar job duties in the field of mental health, it is important to be aware of the differences between the two professions.

If you are thinking about entering one of these fields, you will need to determine which one is right for you and adjust your educational plan to meet the requirements in the state where you intend to practice.

If you are looking for mental health services, talk to your health care provider about the type of mental health provider who would best meet your needs. For example, if you need help coping with stress at school or work, a counselor might be able to help.

If you have a mental health condition that requires treatment, you might be referred to a psychologist or psychiatrist who can manage your care. Ever wonder what your personality type means? Sign up to find out more in our Healthy Mind newsletter. ACA Code of Ethics. Northwestern University - The Family Institute. Counseling VS Psychology. Updated March 20, Scope of Practice Policy. Behavioral Health Providers Overview.

Updated Licensing requirements will vary by state, but usually require a set number of clinical hours.

Featured Online Programs Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today. Getting into this program will require reasonably strong grades and either volunteer or professional experience in order to demonstrate your commitment to the field.

Working or volunteering in a clinic or residential treatment facility are good ways to show your dedication. You will need letters of recommendation, usually three, and may need to take the GRE depending on your program. You will most likely need higher grades to get into these programs—a GPA of at least 3.