Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Explaining the Difference for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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When it comes to mental health care, the roles of clinical mental health counselors and clinical psychologists are often confused. Both professionals work to support mental well-being, but they have distinct training, approaches, and career paths. Understanding the differences between them is crucial, whether you're considering a career in mental health or looking for the right professional to meet your needs. In this article, we’ll break down what sets a clinical mental health counselor and a clinical psychologist apart, from their education and licensing to their treatment methods and work settings.

Key Things You Should Know About Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist

• Clinical mental health counselors typically need a master’s degree in counseling, while clinical psychologists usually require a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.). This means becoming a psychologist takes more time and education.
• Both clinical mental health counselors and clinical psychologists require licensure, but the specific exams and supervised hours differ.
• Both careers are growing, but mental health counselors have a projected growth of 19% from 2023 to 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), while psychologists have an expected growth of 7%.
• Clinical psychologists generally earn more than clinical mental health counselors due to their higher level of education.
• Mental health counselors focus on talk therapy for issues like anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges while psychologists can provide therapy as well but are also trained to conduct psychological testing, research, and more complex mental health assessments.
• Counselors can work in private practice, schools, rehab centers, and community health settings, while psychologists have broader options, including clinical, academic, forensic, and research roles.
• Clinical psychologists cannot prescribe medication -- except in a few states with additional training -- and counselors also do not have prescriptive rights. Instead, both work with psychiatrists or primary care doctors for medication management.

Table of Contents

1. Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Education Requirements
2. Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Licensure or Certification
3. Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Professional Role
4. Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Approaches to Mental, Emotional, and Behavioral Disorders
5. Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Salary and Job Outlook
6. Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Career Paths
7. Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Required Skills
8. Can you transition from being a clinical mental health counselor to being a clinical psychologist?
9. What are the emerging trends in mental health care and technology?
10. How do you choose between becoming a clinical mental health counselor or a clinical psychologist?
11. Can I Fast-Track My Psychology Degree to Enter the Mental Health Field Sooner?
12. What are the benefits of working in the mental health sector?
13. How Can Specialized Child and Adolescent Psychology Education Elevate My Practice?
14. How Can Specializing in Forensic Psychology Enhance My Career Opportunities?
15. What are the benefits of pursuing dual masters and PsyD programs?
16. What are the financial considerations for pursuing advanced mental health degrees?
17. How can additional certifications enhance my clinical practice?
18. How can Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) complement traditional clinical practices?
19. Other Things You Should Know About The Differences Between A Clinical Mental Health Counselor and A Clinical Psychologist

Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Education Requirements

The educational paths for clinical mental health counselors and clinical psychologists are quite different, primarily in the level of degree required and the time commitment involved.

Clinical Mental Health Counselors

To become a mental health counselor, you typically need a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field. These programs usually take two to three years to complete and include coursework in counseling techniques, ethics, and mental health assessment. Most programs also require 600 to 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience through internships or practicums.

Clinical Psychologists

Clinical psychologists must earn a doctoral degree, either a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.). This process of obtaining an on-campus or online doctorate in psychology takes four to seven years, depending on the program and specialization. In addition to extensive coursework in psychological theories, assessments, and interventions, psychologists must complete a year-long internship and accumulate 1,500 to 2,000 hours of supervised clinical training. Another key difference is that Ph.D. programs often emphasize research and academia, while Psy.D. programs focus more on clinical practice.

Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Licensure or Certification

Both clinical mental health counselors and clinical psychologists must obtain licensure to practice, but the requirements and processes differ significantly.

Clinical Mental Health Counselors

Clinical mental health counselors must earn a state-issued counseling license, which typically requires completing a master’s degree, postgraduate supervised clinical hours (often 2,000 to 4,000 hours), and passing a national exam. The most common exams include the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). Some counselors may also pursue voluntary certifications through organizations like the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) to enhance their credentials.

Clinical Psychologists

Clinical psychologists must obtain a state license as well, but the process is more extensive. After earning a Ph.D. or Psy.D., they must complete one to two years of supervised postdoctoral experience before sitting for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Some states also require additional jurisprudence exams or oral exams. Board certification through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) is optional but can provide additional career advantages.

One major distinction is that psychologists are typically licensed to diagnose and treat mental illnesses independently, whereas counselors often focus on therapy and behavioral interventions and may work under the supervision of psychologists or psychiatrists in certain settings.

Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Professional Role

While both clinical mental health counselors and clinical psychologists work in the field of mental health, their roles, approaches, and responsibilities differ in key ways.

Clinical Mental Health Counselors

Clinical mental health counselors primarily focus on helping clients manage emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges through talk therapy and coping strategies. They work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, addressing issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship conflicts. Counselors use evidence-based therapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution-focused therapy. While they assess mental health conditions, they typically do not conduct psychological testing or provide formal diagnoses.

Clinical Psychologists

What do clinical psychologists do? Clinical psychologists have a broader scope of practice and are more focused on psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of complex mental health disorders. They often conduct in-depth psychological testing, such as personality assessments, intelligence tests, and neuropsychological evaluations, which help diagnose conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or learning disabilities. In addition to therapy, psychologists may also be involved in research, teaching, or developing treatment methodologies. Some states allow psychologists to prescribe medication with additional training.

Work Environments also differ. Counselors commonly work in community mental health centers, private practices, schools, or rehabilitation facilities, while psychologists may be found in hospitals, academic institutions, research settings, or specialized mental health clinics.

Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Approaches to Mental, Emotional, and Behavioral Disorders

While both clinical mental health counselors and clinical psychologists help people navigate mental, emotional, and behavioral challenges, their approaches to treatment differ based on their training, methods, and scope of practice.

Clinical Mental Health Counselors 

Clinical mental health counselors take a client-centered, solution-focused approach that emphasizes coping strategies, emotional support, and behavior modification. They work with individuals, couples, and families to address issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship conflicts. 

Counselors use evidence-based therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based approaches, to help clients develop practical tools for managing their mental health. Their work is often short-term and goal-oriented, focusing on improving daily functioning and emotional well-being.

Depth of treatment also differs. Clinical mental health counselors primarily focus on present-day challenges and finding immediate solutions. They cannot prescribe medication but may refer clients to medical professionals when necessary.

Clinical Psychologists

Clinical psychologists, on the other hand, take a more research-driven, assessment-based approach to mental health treatment. They are trained in psychological testing, diagnosis, and long-term treatment planning for more complex mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, personality disorders, and severe depression. Psychologists often use in-depth assessments and diagnostic tools to understand the root causes of mental health conditions before developing a treatment plan. In addition to therapy, they may incorporate psychoanalysis, neuropsychological evaluations, and behavior modification strategies tailored to long-term recovery.

Clinical psychologists often explore deep-seated psychological patterns, past trauma, and cognitive functioning to treat mental health at a deeper level. While they cannot prescribe, (except in some states where specially trained psychologists have prescriptive authority), psychologists often collaborate more closely with psychiatrists to ensure a comprehensive treatment approach.

Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Salary and Job Outlook

When considering a career in mental health, understanding the salary potential and job outlook for both clinical mental health counselors and clinical psychologists is essential. While both fields offer rewarding careers helping individuals improve their mental well-being, there are key differences in earning potential and demand.

Salary Differences

Clinical psychologists typically earn higher salaries than clinical mental health counselors due to their advanced education and specialized training. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for clinical psychologists is $106,600, or $51.25 per hour. Their median annual salary is $96,100, with those in top-paying industries earning over $168,870. In contrast, clinical mental health counselors earn an average of $60,080 per year, or $28.89 per hour. Their median annual salary is $53,710.

Job Outlook and Demand

Both careers are expected to see strong growth due to the increasing need for mental health services. The BLS projects a 19% job growth for mental health counselors from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for clinical psychologists is also expected to grow, but at a slightly lower rate of 7% over the same period. The rising focus on mental health awareness, increased insurance coverage for therapy, and the need for behavioral health support in various settings contribute to these positive job outlooks.

Work Settings and Opportunities

While both professionals can work in private practice, hospitals, community health centers, and schools, clinical psychologists have more opportunities in research, academia, and specialized clinical roles. Mental health counselors, on the other hand, may find employment in rehabilitation centers, crisis intervention services, and outpatient mental health clinics.

In short, if salary is a primary factor, a career as a clinical psychologist offers higher earning potential, but it requires more education and training. If job growth and accessibility are more important, becoming a clinical mental health counselor provides strong career opportunities with a faster pathway to licensure.

Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Career Paths

While both clinical mental health counselors and clinical psychologists focus on supporting individuals with mental, emotional, and behavioral challenges, their career paths differ significantly in terms of education, specialization, and professional opportunities.

Clinical Mental Health Counselors

• Private Practice. Many licensed mental health counselors (LMHCs) establish their own therapy practices.
• Community Mental Health Centers. Counselors frequently work in outpatient settings, providing affordable mental health care.
• Rehabilitation Centers. Some specialize in addiction counseling, trauma recovery, or crisis intervention. Others may pursue additional certifications such as how to become a rehabilitation counselor.
• School and Career Counseling. With additional certifications, mental health counselors can work in academic and vocational settings.
• Healthcare Facilities. Some counselors work in hospitals or primary care offices, collaborating with medical professionals.

Clinical Psychologists

• Clinical Practice. Many psychologists work in private or group practices, diagnosing and treating severe mental health disorders.
• Hospitals and Healthcare Settings. Clinical psychologists often provide psychological assessments and therapy in medical settings.
• Research and Academia. With a Ph.D., psychologists can work as professors or researchers in universities.
• Forensic Psychology. Some psychologists specialize in criminal behavior analysis or serve as expert witnesses in court cases.
• Industrial-Organizational Psychology. Certain psychologists apply their expertise in workplace settings to improve productivity and employee well-being.

Clinical Mental Health Counselor vs. Clinical Psychologist: Required Skills

While both clinical mental health counselors and clinical psychologists work to support individuals facing mental health challenges, their required skills differ based on their training, scope of practice, and professional responsibilities.

Clinical Mental Health Counselors

Mental health counselors focus on therapy, coping strategies, and client-centered interventions. The key skills required for this profession include not only empathy and communication but also specialized knowledge, especially for those pursuing paths like how to become a behavior therapist, which emphasizes behavioral modification techniques and applied interventions.

Here's a detailed list:

• Active Listening and Empathy. Building trust and rapport with clients to foster open communication.
• Counseling Techniques. Using approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and person-centered therapy.
• Crisis Intervention. Handling urgent mental health situations, including suicide prevention and trauma response.
• Communication and Relationship-Building. Effectively guiding clients through emotional and behavioral challenges.
• Case Management and Documentation. Maintaining accurate client records, treatment plans, and progress notes.
• Cultural Competency. Understanding diverse backgrounds and tailoring therapy approaches accordingly.

Clinical Psychologists

Psychologists have a more extensive focus on assessment, diagnosis, and research. Their key skills include:

• Psychological Assessment and Diagnosis. Conducting in-depth evaluations using standardized tests and diagnostic criteria.
• Scientific Research and Data Analysis. Designing studies, analyzing data, and applying evidence-based findings.
• Advanced Therapeutic Techniques. Employing specialized methods such as psychoanalysis, neuropsychological interventions, and trauma-focused therapies.
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving. Analyzing complex cases and developing personalized treatment plans.
• Teaching and Supervision. Many psychologists train future professionals in academic or clinical settings.
• Ethical and Legal Knowledge. Navigating professional guidelines and ensuring compliance with mental health laws.

Key Differences in Skill Application

While both careers require strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making skills, mental health counselors focus more on therapy and direct client support, whereas psychologists conduct assessments, diagnose conditions, and may engage in research or teaching.

Choosing between these professions depends on whether you are more drawn to helping clients through counseling or diving deeper into clinical psychology, diagnostics, and research.

Can you transition from being a clinical mental health counselor to being a clinical psychologist?

It is possible to transition from being a clinical mental health counselor (CMHC) to a clinical psychologist, but it requires additional education, training, and licensure. While both professions focus on mental health, clinical psychologists have a broader scope of practice, including psychological assessments and research, which requires a doctoral degree. If you're exploring adjacent roles in counseling, this career counselor career guide offers another rewarding path to consider.

Here are the steps you need to take to transition to clinical psychologist:

1. Earn a Doctorate in Psychology. Most states require a Ph.D. or Psy.D. to become a licensed psychologist. Ph.D. programs focus on research and academia, while Psy.D. programs emphasize clinical practice.
2. Complete Additional Supervised Training. Even if you have experience as a mental health counselor, psychology doctoral programs require practicum hours and a clinical internship. Some of your past counseling experience may be relevant, but additional hours under a licensed psychologist are usually necessary.
3. Pass the Required Licensing Exams. Clinical psychologists must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) in addition to state-specific licensure requirements. If you’re transitioning from a CMHC, you may have already taken the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), but this is not interchangeable with psychology licensure exams.
4. Meet State Licensure Requirements. Each state has different requirements, including postdoctoral supervised experience. You may also need to complete continuing education or specialized training in assessment and diagnosis.

What are the emerging trends in mental health care and technology?

Recent advances are transforming mental health care delivery and the educational landscape. Digital therapies, telehealth platforms, and AI-assisted diagnostic tools are accelerating access to clinical insights while enhancing patient outcomes. Additionally, innovative study models, such as fast track PsyD programs, are addressing the growing need for proficient professionals in this evolving field.

How do you choose between becoming a clinical mental health counselor or a clinical psychologist?

Choosing between becoming a clinical mental health counselor (CMHC) or a clinical psychologist depends on your career goals, education preferences, and the type of impact you want to have in the mental health field. While both professions focus on helping people with mental, emotional, and behavioral challenges, there are key differences that may influence your decision.

Consider Your Education and Time Commitment

• If you want to start working sooner, becoming a CMHC may be the better option. A master’s degree in counseling typically takes 2–3 years, followed by supervised clinical hours for licensure.
• If you’re interested in research, assessments, and a broader scope of practice, becoming a clinical psychologist requires a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), which takes 4–7 years beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Think About the Type of Work You Want to Do

• CMHCs focus primarily on talk therapy, behavioral interventions, and client support. They often work in community mental health centers, private practices, schools, and hospitals.
• Clinical psychologists have more training in psychological testing, diagnosis, and research, allowing them to conduct assessments and work in specialized settings such as hospitals, universities, and forensic environments.

Compare Salary and Job Outlook

• CMHCs generally earn a lower salary than clinical psychologists, with an average annual income of $50,000–$70,000, depending on location and experience.
• Clinical psychologists typically earn more, with an average salary of $80,000–$110,000, but they also invest more time and money into their education.
• Both fields have strong job growth, with demand expected to rise as mental health awareness increases.

Evaluate Your Interests and Strengths

• If you enjoy direct client interaction, emotional support, and therapy-focused work, a career as a CMHC may be a great fit.
• If you’re interested in conducting psychological assessments, research, or teaching, becoming a clinical psychologist might be more rewarding.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your long-term career aspirations, willingness to invest in education, and the type of work you find most fulfilling. If you're unsure, consider shadowing professionals in both fields or speaking with mentors to gain a clearer perspective.

The table below shows the various mental health illnesses plaguing adults in the U.S. This demonstrates the importance of counseling careers and mental health professionals, including clinical psychologists and mental health counselors, in the country.

Can I Fast-Track My Psychology Degree to Enter the Mental Health Field Sooner?

Accelerated pathways offer a condensed, intensive curriculum designed to prepare professionals for clinical practice in a shorter timeframe. These programs merge rigorous academic coursework with clinical training to build the competencies required for mental health practice. For those evaluating educational options, institutions providing the fastest psychology degree often emphasize streamlined course schedules without compromising accreditation or clinical experience standards. Prospective candidates should assess factors such as curriculum quality, faculty expertise, and integration of applied clinical training to ensure the accelerated program aligns with long-term licensure and career aspirations.

What are the benefits of working in the mental health sector?

Working in the mental health sector can be incredibly rewarding, fulfilling, and impactful. Whether you're a counselor, psychologist, social worker, or therapist, your work helps improve lives, strengthen communities, and promote overall well-being. Here are some key benefits of pursuing various types of counseling degrees and working in the field of mental health:

1. Making a Meaningful Difference

• One of the biggest rewards of working in mental health is the ability to positively impact people’s lives.
• You help individuals manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health challenges, giving them the tools to improve their well-being.
• Your work can also extend beyond individuals, helping families, workplaces, and communities thrive.

2. Growing Job Opportunities and Stability

• The demand for mental health professionals is on the rise, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 18–22% growth for counseling and psychology careers over the next decade.
• As awareness of mental health issues increases, more funding and resources are being allocated to mental health services, creating stable career opportunities.

3. Diverse Career Paths and Specializations

• Mental health careers are not one-size-fits-all—you can specialize in various areas, such as clinical psychology, marriage and family therapy, addiction counseling, school counseling, spiritual counselor career guide, or trauma therapy.
• Professionals can work in hospitals, private practice, community health centers, schools, correctional facilities, corporations, and even research or policy-making roles.

4. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

• Many mental health professionals, especially those in private practice, have the ability to set their own schedules.
• With options for remote therapy and telehealth services, counselors and therapists can provide care while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

5. Competitive Salaries and Career Growth

• While salaries vary by profession and location, experienced mental health professionals can earn $50,000–$100,000+ annually. A clinical psychologist salary, for instance, may be significantly higher than a counselor salary.
• Those who pursue advanced certifications, specializations, or leadership roles can increase their earning potential significantly.

6. Personal and Professional Fulfillment

• Working in mental health allows for continuous learning—new research, techniques, and therapies keep the field dynamic and evolving.
• Many professionals find deep personal satisfaction in their work, knowing they play a role in reducing stigma, improving access to care, and empowering others.

How Can Specialized Child and Adolescent Psychology Education Elevate My Practice?

Pursuing specialized education in child and adolescent psychology can open distinct professional opportunities. Advanced training in this area equips practitioners to meet the unique developmental and emotional needs of younger populations, allowing for more targeted, evidence-based interventions. This specialized knowledge not only broadens treatment approaches but also enhances diagnostic precision in complex cases involving familial and school dynamics. Additionally, a focused academic pathway reinforces clinical decision-making with age-specific research insights, ultimately strengthening practitioner credibility and patient trust. For those interested in a cost-effective route to specialize, consider reading our guide about a child psychology masters program.

How Can Specializing in Forensic Psychology Enhance My Career Opportunities?

Expanding your expertise into forensic psychology bridges clinical insights with legal and investigative frameworks, enabling professionals to engage in risk assessments, expert consultations, and legal evaluations. This specialization can refine analytical skills and broaden service offerings for intricate cases where mental health meets legal contexts. Enrolling in an affordable forensic psychology online masters program may provide targeted training that integrates evidence-based clinical techniques with an understanding of legal procedures, thereby increasing multidisciplinary relevance and career versatility.

What are the benefits of pursuing dual masters and PsyD programs?

Pursuing integrated degree paths offers a strategic advantage by combining clinical training with advanced research methodologies in a streamlined curriculum. This approach empowers professionals to address a broader range of mental health challenges while fostering interdisciplinary expertise that can enhance clinical decision-making and leadership potential. For those seeking a competitive edge in both clinical practice and academia, reviewing comprehensive options such as dual masters and PsyD programs can inform a choice that aligns with long-term career aspirations and evolving industry demands.

Here’s What Clinical Mental Health Counselors and Clinical Psychologists Have to Say About Their Careers

• Becoming a clinical mental health counselor has been the most rewarding journey of my life. Every day, I help people navigate their struggles, build resilience, and find hope, which makes the long hours and challenging cases worthwhile. Knowing that my work truly makes a difference keeps me motivated and fulfilled. Liza
• As a clinical psychologist, I love the combination of science and human connection that my job offers. Whether I'm conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, or providing therapy, I get to use my expertise to improve lives while constantly learning and growing. The mental health field is demanding, but the impact we make is invaluable. David
• Working in mental health has given me a deep sense of purpose and personal growth. The field is evolving, and every day presents new challenges and opportunities to refine my skills and advocate for those in need. Seeing clients make progress and gain confidence in themselves is what keeps me passionate about this career. Michaela

What are the financial considerations for pursuing advanced mental health degrees?

Evaluating the financial commitment for advanced mental health education is essential for long-term career planning. Prospective professionals should examine tuition costs, available financial aid, and the overall return on investment when considering advanced degrees. It is important to compare program fees and additional expenses, such as exam and certification costs, with potential salary increases and career advancement opportunities. Utilizing benchmark resources like how much is a masters in psychology can help in assessing program affordability and funding options.

How can additional certifications enhance my clinical practice?

Integrating advanced certifications into your professional journey can broaden treatment capabilities and foster specialized expertise. Industry-recognized credentials highlight a commitment to continued education and signal a higher standard of care to potential employers and clients. For example, obtaining certifications in behavior analysis and related fields can complement a clinical mental health counseling or psychology practice. Professionals seeking to diversify their skillset and expand their service offerings might consider exploring BCBA online master's programs, which provide targeted training in applied behavior analysis. Such certifications not only enhance clinical credibility but also open new pathways for career advancement in multidisciplinary settings.

How can Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) complement traditional clinical practices?

Integrating ABA techniques into clinical settings can offer structured behavioral interventions that enhance treatment outcomes. By incorporating data-driven strategies and systematic reinforcement, practitioners can target specific behaviors effectively without altering the overall therapeutic framework. Advanced training in ABA methods further equips clinicians to tailor interventions for diverse client needs and improve long-term results. For those considering a specialized focus, exploring the best ABA masters programs can provide comprehensive insights into effective behavior analysis practices.

Key Findings

• There were 71,730 clinical and counseling psychologists and 397,880 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors employed in the United States in 2023. 
• California and New York have the two highest employment levels for both clinical psychologists and substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in the United States.
• According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the most prevalent mental illness for adults in the United States is anxiety disorder. Approximately 19.1% of adults have had an anxiety disorder within the last year. Anxiety disorders come in many different forms.
• The second most common form of mental illness is major depression, with 21 million adults reporting having at least one episode of major depression in 2021. This number represents roughly 8.3% of the U.S. adult population.
• In 2022, 19.86% of adults in the U.S. were living with a mental health condition. About 5% of American adults experienced a serious mental illness.
• Almost half of U.S. adults (46%) will experience a mental health condition during the course of their lifetime.

Other Things You Should Know About The Differences Between A Clinical Mental Health Counselor and A Clinical Psychologist

Which profession offers more opportunities for specialization?

Clinical psychologists typically have more options for specialization, such as neuropsychology, forensic psychology, and health psychology, while clinical mental health counselors may focus on areas like substance abuse, marriage and family therapy, or trauma counseling.

Is there a difference in the level of independence between the two careers?

Clinical psychologists often have more autonomy, as they can open private practices without supervision, while clinical mental health counselors may need to work under supervision depending on state regulations.

How do the treatment approaches of clinical mental health counselors and clinical psychologists differ?

Clinical mental health counselors primarily use talk therapy and evidence-based interventions, whereas clinical psychologists may integrate therapy with advanced psychological assessments and research-based techniques.

Do insurance companies cover services from both clinical mental health counselors and clinical psychologists?

Coverage varies by provider and state, but in general, insurance companies recognize and reimburse both professionals, though some plans may have different reimbursement rates for each.

References:

• Coelho, S. (2025, January 16). Mental Health Statistics. HelpGuide.org.    
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). May 2023 National Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: United States. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics.  (2024, April 3). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics:19-3033 Clinical and Counseling Psychologists. BLS.  
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics.  (2024, April 3). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: 21-1018 Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Psychologists. BLS. 
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors. BLS. 
• University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. (2024, January 3). Mental Health Statistics [2024]. usa.edu.