Mindmarrow Counseling, PLLC

A Guide for Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the U.S.—a time to not only prioritize your own mental health and that of others, but also to educate the public about the often confusing mental health landscape. Navigating the world of providers can feel overwhelming, even for professionals in the field. Below is an unofficial, simplified summary of the different types of mental health providers.

Let’s start with an acknowledgment: finding the right provider is not an easy task. To add to the confusion, many therapists list a wide range of symptoms or themes they work with, which can make it feel like a buffet of problems they claim to solve. In reality, most clinicians have specific areas of expertise and prefer certain therapeutic modalities.

Social media has become a major source of mental health information. While not always evidence-based or accurate, these posts often contain relatable insights. If something resonates with you—whether it’s a TikTok or a friend suggesting you might be experiencing ADHD or anxiety—don’t be shy about sharing it with a provider. These are valuable “breadcrumbs” that can help your therapist understand, clarify, or reframe what you’re experiencing.

Therapy often involves deep, invisible work that is unpredictable and powerful. It’s essential to find a provider you trust—someone who is licensed and trained in the issues you’re facing. As with any healthcare relationship, you have the right to ask questions when beginning care. For example, ask directly if a provider has experience working with ADHD, autism, borderline personality disorder, or any other specific concern.

Decoding the Alphabet Soup of Therapy Titles

Many mental health providers have a string of letters after their names, which can be confusing. These letters offer insight into their training and focus. Here’s a simplified guide:

• LSW/LISW (Licensed Social Worker): Focuses on mental health through the lens of social systems like schools, communities, and government.
• LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist): Specializes in family systems and relationship dynamics.
• LPC/LMHC (Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Counselor): Emphasizes individual emotional development and psychological well-being.
• MA (Master’s in Counseling/Psychology): Focuses on applied psychology in clinical settings; national board certification (NBCC) is often required.
• PsyD (Doctor of Psychology): Trained in complex clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment; experts in complex pathology and psychological evaluations.
• PhD (Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology or Counseling): Often more focused on theory, research, and teaching, though some engage in clinical work.
• Coaches: Not licensed clinicians or therapists. May still be helpful depending on your goals, but should not replace mental health professionals when clinical care is needed.
• Associate-Level Providers (e.g., LMFTA, LSW-A): Not fully licensed yet but often highly diligent. They work under supervision to ensure high-quality care.

Don’t discount less experienced clinicians. Many bring fresh perspectives, thoroughness, and up-to-date training. However, if you’re dealing with complex concerns (e.g., possible neurodivergence or personality disorders), aim for someone with at least 3–5 years of experience. Also, please don’t assume that advanced degree means specialty in certain areas (e.g., not all doctorate’s have deep understanding in neurodivergence, especially if schooling was completed years ago). All providers with a license to practice are required to do training throughout the year to keep up with the latest in their areas of expertise.

Choosing the Right Fit

Finding the right therapist is more than understanding acronyms—it’s about connection. Research consistently shows that a strong therapeutic alliance—trust, safety, and open communication—is the single most important factor in therapy outcomes.

Therapists should challenge you to explore new ways of thinking and behaving. Ultimately, they should be working themselves out of a job by empowering you to manage life without their constant support. That said, it’s perfectly okay to return to therapy when life presents new challenges. Therapy is a tool you can use as needed, whenever life requires extra support in a nonjudgmental space.

Therapy for Children

If you’re seeking therapy for a child, make sure the therapist involves parents in the process. Children benefit most when caregivers are active participants, learning tools to support the child at home. In Washington State, children over age 13 must sign a release form for parents to access treatment planning—but this is easily handled early in the relationship. A skilled therapist will know how to support both the child and the family.

A Word on Bad Therapy Experiences

If you’ve heard (or had) a negative experience in therapy, know that therapists are human and working within complex emotional terrain. Still, all licensed professionals are bound by ethical codes. If something feels wrong, speak up or seek a second opinion. Therapy should be a safe, nonjudgmental space. If your therapist reminds you of your Aunt Judy and that’s impacting your sessions—tell them! Therapists are trained to explore and use that information to deepen your healing.

Final Thoughts

The therapeutic relationship is what matters most. Regardless of your therapist’s credentials, trust, safety, and openness are the foundation of effective care. When you feel seen, heard, and respected, you’re in the right place to begin meaningful work.