FAQs about counseling, coaching, psychotherapy, and finding therapy in Roseville, CA

Your Guide to Counseling, Psychotherapy, and Coaching: FAQs with a Therapist in Roseville

If you’re in Roseville, CA and you’re searching for a therapist either online or in person, you may be wondering what type of professional you should talk to. Do you want a counselor? A therapist? A psychotherapist (why does this title sound so intense?!)? Or should you see a coach? Let me break it down for you.

First of all, What is a therapy? And what is a psychotherapist?

Therapy is probably what you think it is. You come with a specific problem or concern, you talk to a professional, and they can help you sift through your emotions, and feelings, and possibly lead you to a new outlook on the situation. Therapists do not typically give straight-up advice, we want our clients to come to their own conclusions while “doing the work.” The work is the therapy part. It’s called work because it’s not designed to be easy. And a psychotherapist is a fancy title for someone who provides therapy. 

What is counseling? Is it different?

Honestly, I don’t see much of a difference from the word therapy. They are often used interchangeably. It might just be a preference of the person providing the treatment. For example, work with couples is more commonly phrased as “couples counseling” vs. calling it couples therapy. However, there may be some differences in education and background depending on the type of counselor you are looking for. For example, school counselors, addiction counselors, and career counselors all have different education and certification requirements than therapists. But then again, therapists can always call themselves counselors if they would like. However not all types of counselors can call themselves therapists. Does that make sense? So when you’re looking for a therapist or counselor, ensure you know the type you’re looking for, and try searching with both keywords. You might find different providers using different terms. 

What about coaching? Is a coach what I need instead of a therapist in Roseville? 

This is a term that cannot be used interchangeably with therapist or counselor. While therapists require a master’s level education and significant amounts of supervision, coaches do not. There is no universal licensing or oversight for coaches, although many may have extra certifications, training, or experience in their area of focus. Therefore, coaches may have a little extra wiggle room in the services they provide, however there is a lack of oversight. Therapists can also provide coaching services, but coaches cannot provide therapy. 

Wait, what about LPCC, LCSW, LMFT, Psychologists, etc.? What do I need for therapy in Roseville? 

All of the different types of credentials therapists use can be overwhelming. However, you may be someone who doesn’t care- as long as they’re licensed to do therapy it should be fine. In case you are curious though, here’s what they all mean in California. 

LPCC- Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor

LCSW- Licensed Clinical Social Worker

LMFT- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

All three of these are licensed and governed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California. They all have very similar (but not the same) educational programs, supervision, training, and licensing requirements. The only differences are the educational programs and focus during training. All three of these credentials can provide therapeutic services. If you really want to get into the nitty gritty, I would encourage you to look up the differences in educational focus. 

Another thing to note- if you ever see an “A” in front of any of these credentials it means they are an associate. Essentially, they have completed their master’s degree but are not yet licensed. They are able to provide therapeutic services under the supervision of another licensed therapist. 

Okay on to psychologists now. Psychologists not only have a master’s degree, but they hold a doctorate in psychology as well. They can call themselves therapists if that is their current profession, however therapists cannot call themselves psychologists. Psychologists cannot prescribe medication in California, that would be a psychiatrist. Psychologists can also administer psychological assessments that master’s level therapists may not. Often times, the rate for a psychologist may be more expensive due to their additional training and education. 

So what’s next?

You deserve to work with someone who truly understands and supports you. Therapy is more than just weekly conversations—it’s a space to make real progress toward your goals. I hope you find the right therapist in Roseville who can provide the guidance and support you need. Your healing matters, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

My specialties include pregnancy counseling, therapy for postpartum, and trauma therapy. If one of these happen to be the type of therapy you’re looking for, contact me now for your free 15 minute consultation.

Like what we talked about today? Check out my related blogs about finding a therapist in Roseville.