This article breaks down the most common license types you'll see on Grow, what they mean, what kind of care each provider offers, and whether they can prescribe medication.
š TIP: Finding a provider can feel daunting. These resources are here to make it as simple as possible. Interested in talking it through? Give us a call at (646) 687-9932, and our team will be happy to help you find the right provider.
Key Points
All license types beginning with "L" are talk therapists. PhD and PsyD providers also fall into the talk therapy category.
PMHNP, NP, APRN, MD, and DO providers specialize in medication management and can prescribe medication. They may also offer some talk therapy.
You don't need to memorize every credential; most Master's and Doctorate-level talk therapists work in similar ways. Focus on their specialty, approach, and fit.
License types are usually listed after a provider's name or in their bio on Grow.
Many clients work with both a talk therapist and a medication management provider at the same time.
Why license types matter
A provider's license type tells you two key things: their training background and whether they can prescribe medication. You'll typically find the license abbreviation after a provider's name or in their bio.
On Grow, you'll find providers with Master's and Doctorate degrees for talk therapy, and medical or advanced nursing degrees for medication management. The sections below explain what each credential means in plain language.
Talk therapy providers
None of the following provider types prescribe medication. They differ mainly in their training background, theoretical orientation, and the populations or issues they specialize in.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
These providers typically treat individuals, couples, or families from a family-centered perspective. They do not offer medication management.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
These providers focus on the client's holistic environment and how those factors can impact mental health. They do not offer medication management.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Clinical Counselor (LPCC)
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Clinical Counselor (LPCC)
These providers concentrate on assisting clients in managing the impacts of mental health disorders and may also address family or career concerns. This license type closely resembles LMHC. They do not provide medication management.
Doctorate (PhD)
Doctorate (PhD)
These providers hold research-focused degrees. This type of provider may possess additional insights into human behavior, treatments, and the causes of psychological disorders. They do not provide medication management.
Psychologist (PsyD)
Psychologist (PsyD)
These providers hold a degree emphasizing evidence-based research and practical standards in real-world environments. The focus may be on assessments and diagnoses, but they do not include medication management.
Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
These providers assist clients in understanding how external factors influence their behaviors and well-being. This license type is most comparable to an LPC. They do not offer medication management.
Medication management providers
The following provider types specialize in diagnosing mental health conditions and prescribing medication. Many also incorporate elements of talk therapy into their sessions.
Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (NP, APRN, or PMHNP)
Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (NP, APRN, or PMHNP)
These nurses specialize in mental healthcare. They often provide the same services as medical doctors, including assessments, diagnoses, and medication management. Many also incorporate talk therapy during patient visits alongside their prescribing role.
Psychiatrist (MD or DO)
Psychiatrist (MD or DO)
A medical doctor with a psychiatric specialty. These mental health professionals can assist with medication management but may refer you to a talk therapist.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to understand license types before choosing a provider? Not in depth. Most Master's and Doctorate-level talk therapists practice in similar ways; what matters more is their specialty, therapeutic approach, and personality fit. License type is most useful for confirming whether a provider can prescribe medication.
Can I work with both a talk therapist and a medication management provider at Grow? Yes. Many clients work with both at the same time. Grow Therapy offers both talk therapy and medication management.
How do I find a provider's license type on Grow? License abbreviations are typically listed after a provider's name or within their bio on their profile page.
What if I'm not sure what type of provider I need? Start with What type of provider is right for you? for guidance on matching your needs to the right provider type.