A medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of mental health disorders. Mental health disorders include struggles with emotional regulation, cognitive/ executive functioning, and behaviors.

• Completed required training by an accredited residency program.

• Possess an unrestricted medical license.

• Passed ABPN examinations.

• Fulfilled Continuing Certification requirements.

In essence, the ABPN demonstrates a physician's specialized knowledge, skills, and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in the practice of psychiatry or neurology. 

A licensed mental health professional provides psychotherapy, a form of treatment that helps individuals address and manage emotional and behavioral issues, using a variety of techniques (ie. breath work, naming emotions and thoughts, exposure exercises, free-association, etc). Licensed mental health professionals who practice therapy can include someone with a PhD (Doctorate in Psychology), PsyD (Clinical Psychologist), LCSW (social worker), LCPC (Licensed clinical professional counselor), MFT (Marriage Family Therapist). Clinicians with an MD or DO (medical doctors) who have had additional training in psychotherapy during residency, fellowship, or beyond can also make great therapists!