Work With a Relationship Therapist
Building Healthy Relationships in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and California
Covered By Insurance.
What’s the Difference Between a Therapist and a Psychologist, and Do They Offer the Same Services?
When people search “therapist vs psychologist,” they usually want clarity on credentials and services. Both play critical roles in mental health, but there are differences.
-
Therapist is a broad term that includes licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), marriage and family therapists (LMFTs), licensed professional counselors (LPCs), and others. Therapists usually hold a master’s degree and are licensed to provide counseling, relational support, and evidence-based therapy.
-
Psychologist refers to someone with a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD). Psychologists provide therapy as well, but they’re also trained in advanced diagnostic testing, research, and specialized assessments.
We are proud to be LGBTQIA+ allies.
Can Both Prescribe Medication, and Should I See a Therapist or Psychologist for Anxiety or Depression?
This is one of the most common “therapist vs psychologist” questions. Generally, neither therapists nor psychologists prescribe medication.
-
Therapists: Cannot prescribe medication anywhere in the U.S.
-
Psychologists: Typically cannot prescribe medication either, unless they hold special prescribing rights in a handful of states (like New Mexico, Iowa, or Idaho).
Medication management is usually handled by psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), or primary care doctors.
Which Is Right for Me, and When Should I See Each Professional?
Choosing between a therapist and psychologist doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Think of it this way:
-
See a therapist if: You’re looking for support with stress, grief, relationship struggles, or developing new coping skills.
-
See a psychologist if: You need diagnostic clarity, complex trauma support, or advanced therapeutic techniques.
-
See both: If you’d benefit from ongoing therapy alongside specialized testing and evaluation.
Who We Have on Staff and How Integrated Care Supports You
At our practice, you don’t have to choose alone—we have both therapists and psychologists on staff.
-
Licensed Therapists (LCSWs, LMFTs, LPCs) who provide talk therapy, skills training, and relational support.
-
Clinical Psychologists (PhD, PsyD) who offer therapy and advanced diagnostic testing.
-
Psychiatrists & PMHNPs who manage medication when needed.
By having multiple disciplines under one roof, we provide integrated care. That means your providers collaborate so you get faster answers, more cohesive treatment, and less stress repeating your story.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Education, Licensure, Services, and Medication
| Therapist | Psychologist | |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Master’s degree (MA, MS, MSW, MFT) | Doctoral degree (PhD, PsyD) |
| Licensure | LCSW, LMFT, LPC, LCPC | Licensed Psychologist |
| Services | Talk therapy, counseling, coping skills, relational support | Therapy + psychological testing, research-based interventions |
| Medication | Cannot prescribe | Cannot prescribe (except limited states w/ certification) |
| Best For | Stress, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns | Complex cases, diagnostic clarity, testing, specialized therapy |
Start Healing Today
You don’t have to work through challenges alone. If you are looking for constructive solutions to the issues that are troubling you, your partner, or your family, our team can help change your life.
Holistic Therapy.
If you’re experiencing an emergency, please use the information found here.
Location
8 South Michigan Avenue,
Suite 2300
Chicago, IL 60603
Virtual Therapy Available Across Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and California
