Mental Health Licensure Guide
for Equine Assisted Services
Examples of some mental health credentials to pursue:
(Always check your State requirements for Licensing)
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LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER (LCSW)
A licensed professional who provides mental health therapy and support, focusing on social work aspects and often helping clients navigate social service systems.
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MASTER IN SOCIAL WORK (MSW)
A graduate degree in social work that prepares individuals for advanced practice in clinical social work or community organization and advocacy
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR (LCPC)
A licensed counselor who provides mental health services, including therapy and counseling to individuals, couples, and families.
LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST (LMFT)
A licensed professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health issues within the context of family systems and relationships.
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LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST (LP)
A doctoral degree (PsyD or PhD) in psychology that focuses on clinical practice is required for those pursuing careers in mental health service delivery.
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A Masters in Psychology prepares you for various careers in mental health, human resources, and research, often requiring further licensure for clinical roles.
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Psychotherapy is a broader term for long-term treatment that explores deep-seated issues and past experiences, while mental health counseling is often a shorter-term, solution-focused approach to current problems
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SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELING
Certifications and Licenses
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(Follow the linked acronyms below for additional information)
CERTIFIED ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUNSELOR (CADC)
LICENSED ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUNSELOR (LADC)
LICENSED CLINICAL ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUSELOR (LCADC)
CREDENTISLED ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR (CASAC)
CERTIFIED ADDICTION COUNSELOR (CAC)
MASTER ADDICTION COUNSELOR (MAC)
CERTIFIED ADVANCED ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUNSELOR (CAADC)
LICENSED CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY COUNSELOR (LCDC)
PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER (PMHNP)
An advanced practice registered nurse who specializes in providing mental health care treatment that includes depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.
