Many people ask me for help finding support for their mental health. Here are answers to questions they have about therapy and online resources for finding help.
Who do I see?
– Psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist, or coach?
Psychiatrist – medical issues
You may want to start by talking with a psychiatrist If you’re interested in pursuing psychiatric medication for symptom relief for a mental health disorder.
Psychologist – doctorate level psychology
Psychologists have a PsyD or Ph.D. that allows them to work with those with a severe mental illness or mental disorder. They also may administer psychological tests and diagnose mental illnesses.
Therapist – broad designation
A therapist is a professional who is trained to provide mental health treatment and rehabilitation. The term is often applied to psychologists, but it can include others who provide a variety of services, including social workers, counselors, life coaches, and many others.
Licensed Therapist – licensed by each state
Therapists have training on diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, usually at the master’s level. Often called counselors, but the term can vary by state.
Life Coach – not licensed
Tend to help with life challenges and setting goals, not mental health conditions, (e.g. disorders in the DSM).
Certified Mental Performance Consultant – trained in sport and health psychology
CMPC certification recognizes the knowledge and skill consultants need to meet the expectations of athletes, coaches, and performers in other settings (e.g., military personnel, business executives). CMPCs have completed specialized education, engaged in applied training, passed a rigorous exam, adhere to a code of ethics, and commit to ongoing professional development to remain current on best practices. CMPCs help athletes and performers reduce performance anxiety, improve concentration and communication, build confidence, and set goals. Often CMPCs have additional training in counseling psychology.
Where to Find Help
Find a Certified Mental Performance Consultant®
Find a CMPC at the Association for Applied Sport Psychology
https://appliedsportpsych.org/certification/cmpc-directory/
Find A Therapist
Psychology Today
Find a therapist to match your description at Psychology Today.
American Counseling Association
The ACA provides many lists of professional counselors by general directory and by specific communities. Click here to search it.
Summit Performance Consulting, LLC offers life coaching and sport psychology consulting. Learn more here!
