List of credentials in psychology

This list is of professional and academic credentials in the field of psychology and allied fields, including psychotherapy, counseling and social work. Academic degrees such as the doctorate are available in these fields, but only those specifically for psychological subjects are included.

Degrees

MA, or MS in counseling psychology, clinical psychology, educational psychology, etc. 
A master's degree in the specified area which may or may not have required completion of a master's dissertation.
MSW Master's degree in social work or social welfare 
(required for advancement into an LCSW)
MSC
The Master of Science in Counseling
DMFT 
Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy
LPsy
Licentiate in Psychology or Psychologist: professional title used in EU and Latin American countries and equivalent of PsyD of the US
PsyD 
Doctor of Psychology. Requires the student to create relevant and helpful research that contributes to the existing body of knowledge or scholarship in an area. At one time, the Psy. D. was assumed to not require significant research activities, focusing more on advanced clinical training. However, most academic institutions offering a Psy. D. today require the completion of a dissertation suitable for publishing. To use the title "psychologist", individuals must meet their state requirements and obtain a license to practice psychology.
PhD 
Doctor of Philosophy. A Doctor of Philosophy degree in psychology prepares the student to conduct independent research and to provide professional services (consultation, assessment, diagnosis, therapy). To use the title "psychologist", individuals must meet their state requirements and obtain a license to practice psychology.

Professional licenses

Professional licenses for masters level mental health providers are issued by U.S. states to graduate degree holders and license them to practice psychotherapy, also known as counseling.

CASAC: Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor or Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor[1]

LMFT: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

LCSW : Licensed Clinical Social Worker (or LCSW-C: Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical in some states)

LMSW : Licensed Master Social Worker [2]

CRC: Certified Rehabilitation Counselor

LMHC: Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LPC in some states)

LPC: Licensed Professional Counselor (LMHC in some states)

LPC-BE: Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Eligible- This is someone who is in the process of getting an LPC. They can bill for services, but not as much as an LPC.

LCAT: Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (state by state basis)

References

  1. ^ [1] Acronyms and abbreviations
  2. ^ [2] NY State LMSW License Requirements