Frequently Asked Questions

Logistics Questions

Therapy Questions

What is the difference between a life coach, counselor, therapist, psychologist, neuropsychologist, and psychiatrist?

Professional Education & Training Hours Focus & Specialty Typical clients Can diagnose?
Life Coach Informal training

0-300 hours

Unlicensed.
Goal-setting, motivation, accountability, career, or personal growth. Not trained to diagnose or treat mental health disorders. Individuals seeking motivation, direction, or accountability—not treatment for mental health concerns. No
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Master’s

2,000–3,000 hrs
Provides talk therapy for life transitions, stress concerns, and relationship issues. Individuals seeking therapy for specific concerns or life stressors. Limited
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) Master’s

2,000–3,000 hrs
Specializes in couples, family, and relationship-focused therapy to improve communication and connection. Individuals seeking therapy for relationship and family systems concerns. Limited
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Master’s

2,000–3,000 hrs
Offers therapy and resource support, addressing mental health and social challenges. Individuals seeking therapy for specific life stressors and resources for addressing social determinants of mental health. Limited
Counseling Psychologist Doctorate

5,000–6,000 hrs
Addresses emotional, social, and vocational concerns; trained in assessment and psychotherapy. Individuals seeking therapy, career counseling, or personal growth; less focus on severe mental illness. Yes
Clinical Psychologist Doctorate + 1-year fellowship

6,000–7,500 hrs

Can prescribe medication in certain states.
Expert in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of mental health conditions, including severe and complex disorders. Uses evidence-based therapies. Individuals seeking treatment for conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, or complex trauma. Yes
Neuropsychologist Doctorate + 2-year fellowship

7,500+ hrs
Specializes in brain–behavior relationships. Conducts cognitive testing for brain injury, neurological disorders, or developmental conditions. Individuals with memory issues, brain injury, dementia, learning disorders, or neurological conditions. Yes
Psychiatrist Medical school + residency

12,000+ hrs
Specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, can prescribe medication, may offer psychotherapy. Individuals needing medication management for mental health conditions, sometimes combined with therapy. Yes