Reader’s Question

What is the difference between Mental Health Counselor and a Behavioral Disorder Counselor?

Our Clinical Psychologist’s Reply

Mental Health (MH) Counselors treat disorders of mood, developmental disorders, and relationship issues to name a few. They are often in private practice or community mental health agencies and programs. Common conditions treated are depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias, and marital/family problems.

A Behavioral Disorder Counselor treats problems related to behavior rather than mood, providing substance abuse treatment as well as addressing issues related to gambling or eating disorders. For the Behavioral Disorder Counselor, the focus is on destructive behavior patterns and how they impact on the individual and their family and other relationships.

Both Counselors may use assessments as well as individual, marital, and family counseling.