Types of Licensure

Marriage, Family Therapists (MFT or LMFT) have completed a Master’s degree in psychology or counseling psychology. They have completed an internship and are licensed by the state to treat clients. To check CA license status: www.breeze.ca.gov

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) have generally completed a two-year Master’s degree in social work. These counselors also have supervised clinical training and are licensed in their state. To check CA license status: www.breeze.ca.gov

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC) have completed a Master’s degree in counseling psychology. They have completed an internship and are licensed by the state to treat clients. To check CA license status: www.breeze.ca.gov

Psychologists (PhD) have a doctorate in psychology, have completed an internship and are licensed by the state to practice. Psychologists are trained and licensed to administer psychological testing while Master’s level degree holders are not. To check CA license status: https://search.dca.ca.gov/

Psychiatrists (MD) are medical doctors and are the only ones who can prescribe medication. After completing their residency training, most psychiatrists take a voluntary examination given by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology to become a “board certified” psychiatrist. To check on complaints and licensure: https://www.mbc.ca.gov/License-Verification/default.aspx

Licensed Associate is the termed used for someone who has completed their required degree, is registered with the licensing board and is working under the supervision of a licensed person, earning their hours towards licensure as a LCSW, LMFT, or LPCC. They should state clearly who is supervising them and that they are not licensed yet. Their registration can be checked with the same licensing boards as above.

You might find multiple degrees or initials after people’s names. Some people list their professional license along with their educational degree.