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What is a Psychotherapist?


Licensure, Psychotherapy Types

Physician developed and monitored.

Original source: www.mentalhealthchannel.net
Original Date of Publication: 22 Jan 2002
Reviewed by: Under Construction

Home » What is a Psychotherapist? » Licensure, Psychotherapy Types

A psychotherapist interacts with patients to initiate change in the patient's thoughts, feelings, and behavior through adaptation. Psychotherapists provide treatment in individual and group settings. A licensed psychotherapist obtains a master's degree or doctorate in a chosen mental health field, undergoes a supervised clinical residency, and is licensed, certified, or registered by a government or psychological agency to which they are accountable.



Licensed professionals who practice psychotherapy include the following:

  • Psychiatrists
  • Registered psychiatric nurses
  • Clinical social workers
  • Licensed counselors
  • Marriage therapists
  • Family therapists
  • Clinical psychologists

Drug and alcohol counselors, ordained priests, ministers, and rabbis may practice psychotherapy without a license. In some states, a person with a master's degree in education or psychology may also practice psychotherapy without a license.

Types of Psychotherapy
Psychotherapists use the following techniques to treat various psychological conditions and situations:



  • Behavioral therapy (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, controlled exposure with response prevention)
  • Biofeedback
  • Interactive group therapy (e.g., family therapy)
  • Meditation
  • Relaxation training
  • Self-help groups
  • Psychodynamic therapy

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