When seeking out counseling, you will see therapists with various titles. You’ll most often come across PhD Psychologists and Licensed Professional Counselors. What’s the difference between a psychologist vs LPC? In short: A PhD Psychologist has completed a Doctorate Program, whereas a Licensed Professional Counselor has completed a Master’s Program. That means a PhD Psychologist has at least two more years of psychology education than a Licensed Professional Counselor, has passed the doctoral qualifying exam, and has completed post-doctoral training. According to Psychcentral.com,

Master’s level therapists are usually trained in psychotherapy techniques, but have little or no courses in psychological assessment, theory, and research.

– John M. Grobol, Psy.D

In choosing a therapist who has graduated from a doctoral program that is approved by the American Psychological Association, you can be sure that the training the person has received has met very specific standards and requirements. Typically these individuals are required to have a well-rounded, research-based education. Part of the graduation requirement from an APA program is to have a year-long internship in a treatment facility where the individual can gain experience with a wide variety of psychological difficulties.

Dr. Barron received her education and training from such a program. In addition, after graduation she also participated in post-doctoral training for over a year in order to qualify to get licensed as a PhD Psychologist.

See Also: Licensed Counselor vs Psychologist