When mental health concerns are interfering with your ability to live your best life, a mental health therapist or psychologist in Portland, Oregon, can help you develop coping skills and relapse prevention strategies to help you get on the right track for healing. Taking care of your mental health needs may prevent other issues from arising. According to the research, some people with mental health concerns turn to drugs for comfort, thus leading to a substance use disorder. You may wonder what type of help you need for your issues. Is there a difference between a therapist and a psychologist for mental health treatment in Portland? Let’s take a look at these two professions.
Therapist vs. Psychologist
A therapist and psychologist are very similar professions. They both work with patients who have mental health disorders and are adept at helping people find the answers to their difficulties. They also both have studied human behavior. So, what are the differences?
Role of a Psychologist
A psychologist has an advanced degree in the field of psychology. They are also social scientists that are often involved in studying human behavior. Psychologists will sometimes be involved in research, as well. Some patients need medication and psychiatric oversight. A psychologist can work with a psychiatrist to ensure the patient receives adequate care. While a psychologist’s role is to help guide people to a deeper understanding of themselves, you can see they also have an investment in continuous learning and research.
Role of a Therapist
A therapist also studies human behavior. They can have an advanced degree or a certificate-level degree. When they have a certificate-level degree, it’s usually because they’ve chosen to specialize in a specific topic. Therapists are often experts in particular fields such as substance abuse, family counseling, and so on. This gives them a very substantial focus on a certain topic. People who need an expert due to specific mental health problems will find therapists helpful.
Selecting a Mental Health Provider
When it comes time to select either a psychologist or therapist, you can’t go wrong either way. The most important thing is to make sure you have a connection with the person. If you feel comfortable, then you know you can gain the help you need.
Crestview Recovery for Mental Health Treatment
At Crestview, our compassionate staff is ready to help you on your journey to your complete healing. At our serene facility, you will find a lovely welcome. Trained clinicians will walk beside you on your journey. We offer several therapy options, some of which include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy: This therapy is meant to help you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all connected. By understanding these connections, you can start to change negative patterns of thinking and behaving.
- Dialectical behavior therapy: This therapy can help you learn how to cope with stress, manage your emotions, and improve your relationships.
- Individual therapy: In individual therapy, you will work one-on-one with a therapist to address your specific needs. This therapy is meant to help you explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
- Group therapy: You will meet with other people who are facing similar challenges. This can be a great way to share your experiences and learn from others.
- Family therapy: In family therapy, you will meet with your family members to address the ways that your mental health condition has affected your relationships. This therapy is meant to help you improve communication and work through challenges together.
- Mindfulness meditation therapy: This therapy can help you focus on the present moment and be more aware of your thoughts and feelings. This can help you to better manage stress and anxiety.
- Holistic therapy: Takes a holistic approach to mental health, which means that it looks at the mind, body, and spirit. This can help you to heal in a more complete and holistic way.
Managing a Dual Diagnosis
It is crucial to treat both afflictions at the same time. An untreated addiction can lead to your mental health disorders getting worse or even developing additional illnesses. Alternatively, if you only treat substance dependency, the symptoms of your mental illness will come back full force. You may feel that the only way to overcome them is to go back to your addiction, which will lead to a relapse.
Being around people who are also battling addiction grants you the added benefit of companionship, limiting the chances of loneliness, which could impact your recovery. Most importantly, residential care enables you to fully immerse yourself into your recovery in a homey, peaceful environment.
Recovery Starts Today With a Psychologist in Portland, Oregon
Don’t let mental health problems ruin your life or lead to addiction. Now that you understand the differences between therapists and psychologists. If you think there might be a chance that therapy would help you, we encourage you to seek treatment at a quality rehab center. Contact us at 866.262.0531, and we’ll guide you on the road to success.
