The “Can Diagnose?” column varies by state for licenses like LPC, LMHC, LCSW, and LMFT because each state sets its own scope-of-practice laws for mental health professionals. Here’s why that matters:
- 🏛️ State Statutes Define Diagnostic Authority: Some states explicitly grant diagnostic privileges to these professionals in their licensing laws, while others do not. In states where diagnosis isn’t authorized, counselors or therapists may need to refer clients to psychologists or psychiatrists for formal diagnoses.
- đź“Ť Examples of Variation:
- In New York, LMHCs and LMFTs can apply for a separate diagnostic privilege if they meet additional training and experience requirements.
- In other states, LPCs and LCSWs may be allowed to diagnose based on their clinical training and licensure, but this authority is not always clearly outlined in law.
- 🧾 Why It Matters: Diagnostic ability affects treatment planning, insurance reimbursement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students considering these paths should review their state’s licensing board to understand what each credential allows.
🔍 Exploring Clinical Careers with My Next Move
My Next Move is an interactive career exploration tool that offers insights into over 900 professions—including tasks, skills, salary data, and more.
Important Note: Using this resource for clinical and therapy-related jobs can be a bit tricky. Many professionals across these roles use the umbrella term therapist, even though their training, licensure, and scope of practice may differ. These distinctions aren’t always clearly reflected in job titles, plus information about licensure, salary, and professional responsibilities can vary significantly from one state to the next.
Below, you’ll find links to a few relevant My Next Move pages to help you compare and explore.
- Mental Health Counselor – LPC/LMHC and LCSW
- Marriage & Family Therapist – LMFT
- Clinical & Counseling Psychologist – Doctoral-Level Licensed Psychologist
- Psychiatrist – Medically Trained MD or DO
Remember: the most accurate and meaningful insights often come from conversations with professionals in the field. If you’re curious about what a particular role looks like day-to-day—or how someone got there—reaching out for an informational interview can be invaluable.
For guidance and support with reaching out to professionals, visit Connect with Alumni & Professionals.Â