The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an LMFT or Psychologist for Therapy
Kelly Anderson, PhD
When finding the right therapist for you and your family, understanding the differences between a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a psychologist with a PhD or PsyD can be crucial. While both are highly trained professionals, their areas of expertise, training, and therapeutic approaches differ in ways that may make a difference in treatment based on what you’re looking for!
Understanding the Differences: LMFT vs. PhD/PsyD
Background and Training
PhD/PsyD in Psychology:
PhD programs in psychology typically emphasize research and academic training alongside clinical practice. Psychologists with a PhD often engage in a significant amount of research, and depending on their specialization, their training may involve fewer direct clinical hours compared to an LMFT or PsyD.
PsyD programs focus more on clinical practice and less on research. However, both PhD and PsyD psychologists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health issues, often with a focus on individual psychological functioning.
Psychologists with a PhD or PsyD often have extensive training in psychological testing and assessment, making them well-suited for diagnosing complex mental health conditions.
LMFT:
LMFTs undergo specialized therapy training that focuses specifically on relationships and systems. Their education includes a strong emphasis on understanding and treating family systems, couples, and interpersonal dynamics.
An LMFT's training often involves more direct clinical hours in family and couples therapy compared to other psychology programs. They are equipped with practical, hands-on experience working with families and relationships from the start of their education.
LMFTs are uniquely trained to understand and address the dynamics that occur within families and relationships. Their expertise is in working with people in the context of their relationships and understanding how these relationships affect their mental health.
Approach to Therapy
PhD/PsyD in Psychology:
Psychologists often approach therapy from an individual perspective, using techniques grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic theory, or other evidence-based practices. While they can and do work with couples and families, their primary training is in individual therapy and psychological assessment.
Psychologists may take a more diagnostically oriented approach, focusing on identifying and treating specific mental health disorders in individuals versus a systems approach.
LMFT:
LMFTs are trained to see people in the context of their relationships. They understand that an individual's issues are often intertwined with their relationships and that treating the individual without addressing these relational dynamics may not be as effective.
An LMFT’s approach is often more collaborative, working with all members of a family or couple to address issues as a unit. They use therapeutic models specifically designed to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships.
Why Choose an LMFT for Family, Child, Marital, or Interpersonal Issues?
When it comes to issues related to family dynamics, child therapy, marital concerns, or interpersonal relationships, an LMFT’s specialized training makes them particularly well-suited to help. Their deep understanding of relational dynamics and focus on systems allows them to provide targeted interventions that address the root causes of relational distress.
For example:
Family Therapy: LMFTs are experts in helping families navigate complex dynamics, improve communication, and strengthen bonds.
Child Therapy: Since child issues often involve the family system, LMFTs can work with both the child and the family to create a supportive environment for the child’s well-being.
Marital Therapy: An LMFT’s training in couples therapy equips them to help partners work through conflicts, rebuild trust, and improve their relationship.
Interpersonal Issues: LMFTs excel in helping individuals understand how their relationships affect their mental health and work on strategies to improve these relationships.
If you’re looking for help with family therapy, child therapy, marital therapy, or any issues related to interpersonal relationships, consider reaching out to a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. If you’re looking for individual therapy or assessment that is more focused on complex symptoms and diagnoses, a psychologist may be a better fit.
The takeaway here is that finding the best fitting therapist is more about the concerns you’re hoping to address and finding the right fit than the letters following a clinician’s name!