While all three professions share a commitment to helping others, they differ in their approach and scope of practice:

• Counselors: Typically hold a master’s degree and focus on providing guidance, coping strategies, and support to individuals facing various life challenges.
• Psychologists: Require a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) and are trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders through therapy and assessments. Some psychologists focus on research or organizational consulting.
• Social Workers: Hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work (BSW or MSW) and focus on connecting individuals, families, and communities with resources and advocating for social justice.

Licensure ensures professionals meet specific educational and training standards to protect the public. While requirements vary by state and profession, they generally involve:

• Education: Completing an accredited degree program (e.g., master’s in counseling, doctorate in psychology, Master of Social Work).
• Supervised experience: Gaining practical experience under a licensed professional.
• Examination: Passing a state-recognized licensing exam.

We strongly encourage you to research the specific licensure requirements for your chosen profession in your state.

Human services offer a wide range of specializations to align your career with your interests:

• Counseling: Marriage and family therapy, substance abuse counseling, career counseling, school counseling, and trauma-informed care
• Psychology: Clinical psychology, child psychology, forensic psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and neuropsychology
• Social work: Child welfare, gerontology, mental health, school social work, substance abuse, and community organizing