Types of Mental Health Providers
Take the time to find a mental health provider whom you're comfortable with. You may want to ask your primary care manager for a recommendation. Find a doctor.
There are many types of mental health providers.
| Type of Provider | Education | Treatment | Prescribe Drugs? | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychiatrist | Medical degree with advanced training in psychiatry | Psychotherapy, counseling to more serious conditions that can be helped with prescription drugs | Yes | Works with psychologists or licensed clinical social workers |
| Clinical Psychologist | Doctoral-level degree in psychology | Psychotherapy, psychological testing and counseling services | No | Works with psychiatrists and PCMs |
| Certified Psychiatric Nurse Specialist | Master's degree | Psychotherapy and other types of therapy | No, but can help manage prescriptions | Licensed and certified by the American Nurses Association |
| Certified Clinical Social Worker | Master's degree in social work with training in psychotherapy | Psychotherapy and counseling services | No | |
| Certified Marriage and Family Therapist | Master's degree in counseling with an emphasis on family and marriage therapy | Individual, marriage and family counseling | No | Must agree to participate in TRICARE |
| TRICARE Certified Mental Health Counselor | Master's degree in counseling | Counseling services | No | Referral and physician oversight not required |
| Supervised Mental Health Counselor or Pastoral Counselor | Master's degree in counseling | Counseling services | No | A referral from medical doctor and physician oversight is required |
Last Updated 5/22/2025
