Understanding qualifications when finding a marriage counselor in Chicago

If you don’t know what you are looking for, it can be tricky to find a marriage counselor. Some couples avoid seeking the help of a counselor because they don’t know where to start. There are many different categories of counselors out there, and the initials for their credentials can be confusing. Some of the more common ones are:

• LCSW, ACSW, CSW, BCSW, QCSW, DCSW, LISW, RISW, LCSW-R, LCSW-C, and GSW are all related to the licensing of Clinical Social Workers. The National Association of Social Workers can provide more information. The state board can verify whether an individual is licensed to practice in Chicago.
• MSW is an individual who has a master’s degree from an accredited university in social work. However, it does not mean that the therapist is licensed to practice.
• CPC, LPC, LCPC, LPCMH, LMHC, CCMH, LMHP, LCMHC, and LPC-MH are individuals who are state licensed, but not necessarily in Illinois, again check with the state board.
• MA indicates a Master of Arts counseling degree from an accredited university, not necessarily a license to practice.
• Ph.D. is a doctor of philosophy and can represent a variety of fields. In relation to the counseling field, it necessitates a doctoral degree in fields such as psychology, counseling, or social work. Psy.D. indicates a doctoral degree in clinical psychology.
• LCMFT, LMFT, AND MFT indicate individuals who are undergoing licensing or who are licensed through the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
• MD indicates a Doctor of Medicine, in the field of counseling it usually refers to a psychiatrist who can prescribe medication.

It is crucial that you check with the state board to verify that the counselor is licensed to practice in Chicago. Counselors must abide by stringent ethical rules required for the profession to be licensed. It holds them responsible for their practices and ensures that unethical individuals are not allowed to practice. If a counselor fails to provide ethical therapy, it should be reported to the Illinois licensing board.

The attorneys at David M. Siegel and Associates are dedicated to the wellbeing of their clients. They will guide you through the difficult journey of divorce, but they would like for you to be sure that ending the marriage is the right option for you. Call (847) 520-8100 and schedule a consultation for help through this challenging time.