What is the Difference Between a Child Therapist and a Child Psychologist?
There are so many different terms and roles in the mental health field, which can create some confusion when trying to find the right support for your child. While some aspects of these mental health professionals are similar, there are key differences. We teamed up with Dr. Kezia Jackson, founder of Healing Spaces Psychological Services to help you better understand some of the differences.
So, what is the difference between a child therapist and a child psychologist?
While some aspects of these mental health professionals are similar, there are key differences. Understanding these differences is important: not just for clarity, but to make sure you’re getting the right kind of help based on what you need and what you’re looking for for your child, yourself, or your family. Whether you're seeking a space to talk through life stressors or need a comprehensive evaluation to access academic or medical support, knowing who does what can help you make more informed decisions.
Both a psychologist and a therapist will serve as active listeners to work with you to improve your overall mental health. However, their level of education, specific training, and scope of practice vary.
“Therapist” is a general term for someone who is trained to provide therapy. A therapist can include social workers, counselors, & psychologists. Education for a therapist varies, as one can be a licensed professional counselor (LPC), a marriage and family therapist (LMFT), or a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and so on. While psychologists can be therapists, they have doctoral training (PhD or PsyD) with a speciality in psychology (e.g., Clinical, Counseling, Developmental).
Who can diagnose?
Therapists usually do not conduct formal psychological testing, but do sometimes diagnose. However, a diagnosis from a therapist may not hold the same weight as a psychologist. This is largely due to differences in training, scope of practice, and the types of assessments each provider is qualified to use. Licensed psychologists receive extensive training in psychological testing and differential diagnosis. They are uniquely qualified to administer and interpret standardized psychological and neuropsychological assessments, which can offer a more comprehensive and evidence-based picture of a client’s functioning.
While licensed therapists are fully capable of recognizing and treating many mental health conditions, their diagnoses are typically based on clinical interviews and observation rather than formal psychological testing. As a result, in certain settings, such as schools, courts, or when seeking accommodations, a diagnosis from a psychologist may carry more authority or be required for decision-making purposes. For example, if your child needs an Individualized Education Program (IEP), the school may not accept a diagnosis from a therapist alone, as it may not meet the necessary evaluation criteria. In these cases, a psychologist’s comprehensive assessment is often needed to ensure the child receives appropriate support and services.
Can either prescribe medication?
Neither a therapist nor a psychologist can prescribe medication. They may be familiar with certain medications, but they cannot prescribe such medications themselves. Typically, psychiatrists are the only professionals in the mental health field who are authorized to prescribe medication.
Finding the right mental health provider can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to understand who does what. The good news is that both therapists and psychologists are deeply committed to helping you or your child thrive: they just bring different tools to the table. Whether you're exploring therapy for emotional support or seeking a comprehensive evaluation, understanding the differences between these professionals ensures you’re connected to the right kind of care.
Meet Dr. Kezia Jackson
Dr. Kezia Jackson (she/her) is a licensed psychologist and the founder of Healing Spaces Psychological Services, a culturally responsive group practice in Clayton, Missouri. She specializes in psychological assessment and is passionate about helping parents, especially Black parents and parents of color, heal from past experiences and raise their children with compassion and intention. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Jackson is committed to creating inclusive, affirming spaces where individuals feel seen, valued, and empowered.
If you are wanting a psychological evaluation or assessment for your child, Dr. Jackson is Bud to Bloom’s go to psychologist! Head over to her website for more information: Healing Spaces Psychological Services.
