What's the difference between LCSW, PsyD, PhD in IL?

Question

I'm trying to help a friend in IL who's in need of mental health services.

I know the difference between a PhD, a PsyD, and LCSW in New Jersey, but I also have an introduction to mental health. I need help explaining to a 16-year-old female the difference, someone who has no real knowledge of the topic.

I'm trying to help a friend in IL who's in need of mental health services.

I know the difference between a PhD (in terms of psychology), a PsyD, (and that the previous two are broadly equivalent) and LCSW in New Jersey, but I also have an introduction to mental health. I need help explaining to a 16-year-old female the difference, someone who has no real knowledge of the topic.

Answer 1

A PhD is a doctoral degree in anything, you can have a PhD in theology, history, music, chemistry... antything. A PsyD is a doctoral degree in psychology... making the person a clinical psychologist. LCSW stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and this person has a master's degree in social work. All three are completely different. For your friend in need of mental health services, a psychologist or therapist can talk, hold groups, etc. OR... what your friend may need is a PSYCHIATRIST, which is someone who is an MD (Medical Doctor,) who specializes and psychiatry... psychiatrists also do therapy, groups, etc, but they can also prescribe medication.