What’s the Difference Between Counseling and Therapy?

Counseling and therapy are both viable options for dealing with mental health issues, but understanding their differences can help you decide which course of treatment is best for you.

The terms “counselor” and “therapist” are often used informally to describe mental health professionals who provide counseling or therapy. You might even use them interchangeably without much thought.

However, these titles actually refer to distinct types of mental health professionals. This piece explains the differences and similarities between counseling and therapy to help you understand each and choose the best support for your mental well-being.

What is the difference between a counselor and a therapist?

Both counselors and therapists help clients navigate mental health and life challenges. The main differences between a counselor and a therapist are as follows: 

Degree requirements

The educational path for counselors and therapists differs based on their specialization and the scope of their practice. Counselors typically hold a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, such as school counseling or addiction counseling. In contrast, therapists often have a broader educational background, earning a master’s or doctoral degree in fields like social work, psychology, or marriage and family therapy. Therapists who pursue a doctorate may focus on research, advanced clinical training, or academic roles in addition to therapy.

Types of training 

Counselors and therapists undergo distinct types of training tailored to their roles. Counselors are often trained in specific techniques for addressing focused issues, emphasizing problem-solving and actionable strategies. Industry research explains that a counselor does not typically aim to develop a long-term relationship with clients as would a therapist and instead aims to resolve the presenting issues within 4-12 counseling sessions, though some cases may continue if new challenges arise. In practice, counseling is often defined by its emphasis on active listening and guidance rather than interventions as the primary tools for creating change. 

Therapists, on the other hand, receive training in broader therapeutic frameworks, such as psychodynamic theory, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or trauma-informed care. For instance, a counselor might help you develop coping skills for recovering from substance use disorder, while a therapist could work with you to understand how underlying trauma relates to the urge to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol. Both professions require supervised clinical experience, but therapists typically complete more extensive supervision hours due to their broader scope of practice.

Licenses and certifications

Both counselors and therapists must obtain licenses or certifications to practice legally, though the specific requirements vary by state and specialization. Counselors may earn credentials such as Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC). Therapists often hold licenses like Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or Licensed Psychologist. Additionally, some therapists pursue board certifications in specialties like trauma or eating disorders. These licenses and certifications indicate that the mental health professional meets the necessary education, training, and ethical standards to provide care.

Benefits of counseling vs therapy

When it comes to deciding on the right course of mental health care treatment between counseling and therapy, there are several factors that can help guide your decision. 

Benefits of counseling

• Short-term focus, typically one to three months, addressing specific issues
• Solution-oriented, equipping clients with problem-solving and coping skills to manage challenges independently 
• Counselors may be specialized to address specific needs, such as school, career, or relationship challenges
• Providers may offer informal mental healthcare, like trained peer counselors who offer support based on personal experience with similar hardships
• Counseling services may be more accessible, both in availability and cost

Benefits of psychotherapy

• Longer-term care to address persistent or chronic issues
• In-depth approach to explore the root causes of emotional and psychological challenges
• Theory-driven and structured, often guided by established frameworks and evidence-based protocols
• Specialized modalities, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure therapy, that offer tailored approaches for specific needs

How to choose between counseling vs therapy

Several factors can influence the choice between counseling and psychotherapy, including personal preference, availability of services, insurance coverage, and affordability.

Psychotherapy might be more suitable for someone who:

• Has a diagnosed, serious mental illness, like borderline personality disorder, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder
• Has tried counseling but found it unhelpful
• Is facing chronic or recurring emotional or mental health challenges
• Is dealing with past trauma or feels affected by past experiences
• Has emotional or mental health issues impacting daily life and relationships

Counseling may be more appropriate for someone who:

• Is facing a specific, short-term issue
• Is seeking guidance and support to resolve particular challenges
• Is working to overcome substance or alcohol dependence
• Wants to develop coping skills for managing stress
• Is navigating a life change, such as a death or divorce

How to find the right therapy or counseling provider

Finding the right mental health provider can feel overwhelming, but there are a few key steps that can help ensure you choose someone who fits your specific needs and goals. Here’s how you can start the process:

1. Understand Your needs

Reflect on whether you’re looking for short-term, solution-focused assistance or long-term, in-depth therapy. If you’re facing specific issues like stress or relationship challenges, counseling may be the right option. If you need help with a chronic mental health condition or trauma, psychotherapy might be better suited to your needs.

2. Verify credentials

Make sure the provider is licensed in your state. A mental health counselor may have a title like Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), while therapists may hold licenses such as Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or Licensed Psychologist. Checking credentials ensures the mental health professional meets the necessary qualifications.

3. Consider specializations

Look for a provider who specializes in the issues you’re dealing with, such as addiction, trauma, or anxiety. Therapists may focus on in-depth treatment for mental health disorders, while counselors may focus on practical, short-term solutions.

4. Check availability and accessibility

Make sure the provider’s office hours align with your schedule. Also, check if they offer online therapy or if they accept your insurance, making sure that treatment is both accessible and affordable.

5. Meet for an initial consultation

Take advantage of an initial consultation to assess whether you feel comfortable with the provider. Pay attention to how they listen, explain their approach, and if you feel understood. If the connection doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to seek someone else.

Finally, trust your instincts. The right provider should make you feel safe and respected. If something feels off, continue searching until you find a better fit.

How Charlie Health Can Help

If you or a loved one need mental health treatment, Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides mental health treatment for people dealing with serious mental health conditions. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions. With treatment, managing your mental health is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.