Maybe you’ve just moved here, or maybe you’re second or third generation Nevada. Maybe you love the weather, maybe it leaves something to be desired. Maybe you know the best Mexican, Italian, or Poke restaurant or maybe you’re still trying them out. Whatever perspective or comfort you have with Carson City, you’re not alone if you feel confused about the similarities and differences between therapy, counseling, coaching, or wellness, and you’re just not sure which focus is right for you. There are so many choices available to the wellness consumer these days, and the nuances and benefits of each practice can be a challenge to figure out. Most people, no matter how long you’ve been in town struggle to understand the difference.
That’s because each of these disciplines in Carson City, NV has something slightly different to offer you as their client. And it’s completely understandable to have questions about which approach is right for you (or you and your partner). As a therapist who has practiced in Carson City for over 10 years, I am thrilled with how many diverse mental health and relationship professionals have chosen to make it their business home! And, I’d like to share some general information I have learned about our local health and wellness climate over the years to make your search less confusing.
What is relationship therapy?
Relationship therapy, or psychotherapy, is practiced by an individual who has a mental health license (LMFT, LCSW, CPC, LCPC, Psychologist, PsyD, or any pre-licensed person) and is using one or more evidence based therapeutic approaches that focus in on relationship dynamics, behaviors, and how to improve them for healthier and happier relationships. In Nevada, therapists have at least 3000 hours of experience providing services to people before they obtain a license, and they hold a Master’s Degree in a related field. Other fields use the job title “Therapist”, such as Occupational or Physical Therapist.
What is counseling?
Professional counselors have similar requirements to therapists and a very similar job description. People who use the title counselor may also be in the religious or educational sector. An individual who uses the job title counselor may also practice in a certain region or country where this title is more standard than “therapist”.
Wait.. are couples counseling and couples therapy in Carson City NV the same thing?
As I shared above, yes and no. An important difference between a therapist and a counselor is generally speaking therapists tend to have more experience with complex or long term care needs, while a counselor tends to be experienced with short term, solution oriented needs.
What about coaching? Is a coach what I need over Couples Counseling or Therapist?
I would love for any Relationship Coach reading this to chime in! In my experience the biggest difference between therapy and coaching is that a therapist is using a therapeutic approach that allows them to focus on the mental health and attachment needs of a relationship, and coaching takes a goal oriented approach and encourages performance improvement in a particular area. Both discipliines are ethically required to maintain confidentiality for their clients. Coaching is a relatively new form of guidance and therefore is less regulated than the field of therapy, but the International Federation of Coaches provides oversight and training for all types of coaches. Therapists can provide coaching, but coaches are not able to provide therapy.
Wait, what about LPC, LCSW, LMFT, Psychologists, LMHC, etc.? What do I need?
In most states (and Nevada is one of them) these license names describe the focus on mental health each license offers, as well as the type of advanced degree an individual has obtained. Each of these license names represents a different educational focus, and each clinician should be accurately advertising what they can and cannot do with this license. For example, an LMFT in Nevada cannot conduct certain types of psychological assessments, and should not advertise that they can. A Nevada Psychologist can provide assessments, but just because they can doesn’t mean they have chosen to do so. You should be able to ask, and easily understand, what an individual does within their practice. And it is their ethical obligation to advertise to the consumer what their scope of practice is. Also keep in mind many clinicians have completed certificate or other types of additional trainings that complement their license type. For example, any of the above licenses may also have additional training in supporting folks with traumatic histories, anxiety, or attachment style approaches that deserve increased sensitivity and awareness.
Honestly, the bottom line for most people is finding a great clinician FOR THEM; one who has taken the time to hear about their needs and is clear and honest about how their practice can help them reach their goals. A great clinician is one who helps you get the support you need in the timeframe that works for you and not necessarily what letters they have after their name.
I hope this helps you find the right couples counselor in Carson City, NV. You deserve support from someone who you feel comfortable and secure with. Therapy isn’t just for chatting weekly, it is about getting guidance and support to reach your goals for a healthier and more vibrant experience of your life and relationships.
My specialties are using Emotionally Focused Couples and Family Therapy, and I’ve been working with families for over 20 years and counting, so I’m doing this right alongside you.
Like what we talked about today? Check out this blog for more information on effective communication in relationships: https://restoringrelationships.today/you-can-communicate-with-your-partner/
A free consultation with Monica Campbell at Restoring Relationships in Carson City, NV
If you are ready to stop the negative cycle in your relationship, call Monica (775-431-3245) at Restoring Relationships for a FREE 20 minute phone consultation about counseling in Carson City, NV, or click the Schedule Now button below to learn how good a supportive and validating intimate relationship can feel.