The main difference between a social worker and a psychotherapist is the type and depth of training they receive. Social workers typically receive a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW) or a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW). Their training is focused on helping people with their day-to-day struggles. Social work focuses on connecting clients to resources, advocating for them, and helping them manage their mental health.
Psychotherapists, on the other hand, have a master’s or doctoral degree in a mental health field such as psychology or counselling. Their training is more focused on the psychological aspects of mental health. They offer counselling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. They are trained in various techniques and modalities to help people understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and to manage them more effectively.
Psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses, and social workers can all offer psychotherapy.
