When seeking therapy, it can be overwhelming to navigate the different types of behavioral health professionals available. You may come across various credentials—LCSW, LMFT, LCMHC, LPC, and Psychologist—all of whom provide therapy but have different training, approaches, and ethical guidelines. At Rubicon Therapeutic, we believe in helping clients make informed choices about their care. In this post, we’ll break down the differences between these professionals and the ethical codes they follow.
Types of Behavioral Health Professionals
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
• Focus: Social workers take a holistic approach, addressing mental health in the context of social, environmental, and systemic factors. They often specialize in trauma, family systems, and advocacy.
• Education & Training: Master of Social Work (MSW), followed by supervised clinical experience.
• Code of Ethics: National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics
• Emphasizes social justice, client dignity, and professional integrity.
• Requires a commitment to advocacy and addressing systemic barriers.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
• Focus: Specializes in relationships, family dynamics, and couple’s therapy. Uses a systemic approach, looking at how relationships influence mental health.
• Education & Training: Master’s or Doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, with clinical supervision requirements.
• Code of Ethics: American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Code of Ethics
• Prioritizes responsibility to clients, upholds professional competence, and safeguards the therapeutic relationship.
• Strong focus on confidentiality within family systems.
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) / Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• Focus: Works with individuals, groups, and families on various mental health concerns, using evidence-based therapy methods.
• Education & Training: Master’s degree in Counseling or a related field, plus supervised practice.
• Code of Ethics: American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics
• Stresses respect for client autonomy, informed consent, and cultural competency.
• Prohibits dual relationships and requires ethical decision-making.
Psychologist (PhD or PsyD)
• Focus: Specializes in mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. Some psychologists conduct psychological testing and research.
• Education & Training: Doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), extensive clinical training, and post-doctoral supervision.
• Code of Ethics: American Psychological Association (APA) Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct
• Outlines principles such as beneficence, nonmaleficence, and integrity.
• Includes guidelines for conducting research and psychological testing.
What Does This Mean for You?
Each of these professionals can provide therapy, but their focus, training, and ethical obligations differ. When choosing a therapist, consider:
• Your needs: Do you need help with relationships (LMFT), general mental health (LCMHC/LPC), or systemic issues (LCSW)?
• Specializations: Psychologists may provide testing and research-backed treatment, while counselors and social workers often focus on talk therapy.
• Ethical standards: Every professional must follow strict ethical guidelines, ensuring your safety, confidentiality, and quality of care.
At Rubicon Therapeutic, we connect clients with highly trained therapists who meet rigorous ethical and professional standards. If you’re unsure which type of therapist is best for you, we can help guide you to the right fit.
Contact us today at rubiconpsychotherapy.com to begin your journey to mental wellness.
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