Sometimes, the hardest step is not choosing to go to a therapist; it’s choosing the right therapist for yourself.

Looking for therapy for the first time can feel like stepping into a world full of similar-sounding titles. Psychologist. Psychotherapist. Psychiatrist. Counselor. It can be overwhelming and confusing to decide who is best for you. 

What do they all mean and who should you talk to?

We’ve broken it down to help you figure out which kind of professional might be the best fit for you.

Psychotherapist

A psychotherapist is a broad term for someone who helps you talk through emotional issues. The American Psychological Association (APA) defines a ‘psychotherapist‘ as “an individual who has been professionally trained…to treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders by psychological means. They may be a clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, counselor, social worker, or psychiatric nurse.”

They help you explore thoughts, feelings, patterns, and challenges through regular conversation and therapeutic techniques.

What to know: Not all psychotherapists can diagnose or prescribe medication. Their strength is helping you through life’s emotional maze with different types of therapy like CBT, psychodynamic therapy, or trauma-focused work.

Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who focuses on mental health and can prescribe medication.

Psychiatrists are your best option if you’re dealing with more complex mental health issues like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or severe depression especially if your symptoms are intense, persistent, or interfere with daily functioning. 

They can perform diagnosis and assessments, and may offer some therapy but not all psychiatrists function as psychotherapists although they may have received training in therapy. Usually, they focus on diagnosis and medication management. 

What to know: If you’re wondering whether what you’re feeling might need medication support, a psychiatrist is the right person to assess that.

Psychologist

A psychologist is an expert in how the mind works and how to help it heal.

Psychologists are trained to understand human behavior and emotions and can provide therapy and consultations. However, in India, only an RCI Licensed Clinical Psychologist is eligible to provide diagnosis and assessments. 

Psychologists use professional techniques to help you manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and more and will also provide you with structured, goal-focused support.

What to know: Need a psychological evaluation or want a structured therapeutic approach? A psychologist could be your go-to.

Counseling Psychologist

A counseling psychologist is your guide through life’s bumps and crossroads.

They help with things like relationship issues, career stress, self-esteem, and emotional difficulties. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life but aren’t necessarily facing a severe mental health disorder, a counseling psychologist is a great starting point.

What to know: They often focus on building strengths, resilience, and helping you move forward with clarity.

Clinical Psychologist

Clinical psychologists are trained to work with deeper or more complex mental health issues.

They specialize in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. They often work with people facing long-term or more complex mental health challenges, such as PTSD, OCD, or major depression.

What to know: They’re equipped for deep, therapeutic work—especially if you feel like something big or long-standing is getting in your way.

So… who should you choose?

Think about what’s going on in your life right now. Even if you are confused, starting anywhere is okay:

• Need someone to talk to and sort through everyday stress? → A counseling psychologist or psychotherapist might be ideal.

• Want structured, research-backed therapy? → Look for a psychologist or clinical psychologist.
  
• Suspect you might need medication or are dealing with a diagnosed condition? → A psychiatrist can help.
  
• Feeling overwhelmed but unsure? → Start with a psychotherapist—they can help guide you toward the right type of support.
  

Ask your friends or family or even your GP to refer good mental health professionals based on their experience or network. It’s important to do your background research before you pick your therapist. There are some red flags you can watch out for like poor communication and ethical violations, among others.

At MyndStories, our directory includes licensed, compassionate professionals from all these backgrounds. Filter by your needs, read their profiles, and find someone who feels like a fit—because the right therapist feels right.

If you need an understanding of what the first session with your therapist might look like, here’s a comprehensive article we’ve put together.

You deserve support that works for you. We hope you find that support.