A
mental health professional is a person who offers services for the purpose of improving an individual's
mental health or to treat
mental illness. This broad category includes psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, clinical social workers, psychiatric nurses,
mental health counselors as well as many other professionals. These professionals often deal with the same illnesses, disorders, conditions, and issues; however their
scope of practice often differs. The most significant difference between mental health professionals are the laws regarding required education and training in the various groupings.
[1]Mental health professionals exist to improve the mental health of individuals, couples, and families. Because mental health covers a wide range of elements, the scope of practice greatly varies between professionals. Some professionals may enhance relationships while others treat specific mental disorders and illness. Often, as with the case of psychiatrists and psychologists, the scope of practice may overlap.
Most qualified mental health professionals will refer a patient or client to another professional if the specific type of treatment needed is outside of their scope of practice. Additionally, many mental health professionals may sometimes work together using a variety of treatment options such as concurrent psychiatric medication and psychotherapy. Additionally, specific mental health professionals may be utilized based upon their cultural and religious background or experience.
Psychiatrists are physicians and one of the few professionals in the mental health industry who specialize and are certified in treating mental illness using the biomedical approach to mental disorders including the use of medications.
