Maybe nothing. When any behavioral intervention is started, or to help answer questions about diagnosis, a practitioner must determine through diagnostic testing and/or a diagnostic assessment if client symptoms fall into any diagnostic categories. This helps direct treatment and identify clients who would benefit from medication. Most times, this can be determined without formal testing and will only involve an interview where the practitioner will go over various aspects of your psychological, social, and medical history with you. However, if an outside facility, court, or professional has specifically requested that you undergo formal diagnostic testing, or if after your assessment the practitioner decides that formal testing is indicated, you will be referred to a provider to undergo a series of interviews and questionnaires to help pinpoint any specific diagnoses or areas of concern. 

First make sure the individual is licensed to provide psychotherapy services in your state. Next, make sure the individual is an age and gender that you can feel comfortable with. Finally, meet with the individual and ask questions about their theoretical approach and techniques.

            Frequently Asked Questions

An LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker. Someone with this licensure has a master’s degree in social work, has passed a licensing test, and is able to provide psychotherapy and other social work services independently without supervision. Licensed clinical social workers look at the person in their environment to determine needs and appropriate interventions. The majority of psychotherapy services in the country are provided by LCSW’s.

An LPC is a licensed professional counselor. Someone with this licensure has a master’s degree in counseling and/or psychology,  has passed a licensing test, and is able to provide psychotherapy independently without supervision. Licensed professional counselors look at the person’s psychological and emotional functioning to determine needs and appropriate interventions.

Both an LPC and an LCSW are appropriately trained to perform assessments and counseling, and most insurance companies cover both professionals.

What is the difference between an LCSW and an LPC?

What should I look for in a psychotherapist?

What is the difference between diagnostic testing and a diagnostic assessment?

Behavioral Health Center

Of Texarkana