If you’ve been thinking about getting professional help but aren’t sure whether to see a therapist or a counselor, you’re not alone. These two titles can sound interchangeable—but they aren’t exactly the same. And here’s the tricky part: in many states (like Texas), the same person could rightfully use either title. That’s why this question is more nuanced than most people realize. My goal here is to make this decision feel less intimidating and help you choose what will actually support your healing.

Quick Takeaways

• Therapists and counselors often overlap, but their focus and approach can differ.
• The right choice depends on your needs, goals, and comfort level.
• Look beyond the title—focus on connection, specialties, and approach.

Understanding the Difference Between Therapist and Counselor

Let’s be honest: the terminology can be confusing. In some places, “therapist” and “counselor” are almost interchangeable, and that can leave you feeling stuck before you even get started.

Here’s what you need to know: therapists usually have advanced degrees—like LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), LMFT, LCSW, PsyD, or PhD. These professionals are trained to work with a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety disorders, grief, and other mental health concerns. Many therapists specialize in deeper issues such as Trauma Counseling and long-term healing.

Counselors may also have those exact same licenses. Sometimes they focus on short-term or solution-oriented work, like helping you navigate a transition, build coping skills, or resolve a conflict. But here’s the nuance: an LPC who calls themselves a “career counselor” or “grief counselor” is still a fully licensed mental health professional. The title they use might simply reflect their focus or their audience. For example, a professional offering Grief Counseling might use the counselor title but still practice at the same level as a therapist.

💡 Pro Tip: Instead of getting hung up on the title, look at credentials, experience, and specialties. Your goal is to find someone you feel safe with—someone who understands your needs and has the tools to help you heal.

Which Professional Is Right for Your Goals?

So how do you decide? It starts with what you’re hoping to get out of the process.

When a Therapist Might Be Best

If you’ve experienced developmental trauma, childhood wounds, or repeated patterns that keep you feeling stuck, therapy offers the deeper exploration you need. Therapists can help you:

Process trauma and calm your nervous system (Trauma Counseling)
Do inner child work (sometimes called parts work) to bring healing to younger parts of yourself
Learn to respond instead of react when triggers appear
Develop healthier boundaries and relationships
Take intentional steps toward long-term change

I consider myself a trauma therapist. Much of my work involves gently guiding clients to integrate the parts of themselves that learned to survive difficult situations. This work can feel tender—but it’s where real transformation begins.

When a Counselor Might Be Best

Counseling may be ideal if you’re focusing on:

Navigating a major life decision or transition
Building practical coping strategies for a specific stressor
Strengthening communication or problem-solving skills
Receiving premarital counseling or relationship coaching

Some professionals wear both hats. You might even start in counseling and later move into deeper therapeutic work with the same person.

The Role of Specialties and Approaches

Titles aside, what really matters is how your provider works with you. My approach at Eleanor Brown Counseling is whole-person focused—because what you’ve been through affects you physically, mentally, and spiritually. I help you connect those dots so you can take intentional baby steps toward healing.

Here are some of the approaches I use:

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): This therapy helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they no longer trigger the same intense emotional reaction. Clients often describe it as finally being able to think about a painful memory without feeling hijacked by it.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): This approach helps you notice difficult thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them, and take action based on your values rather than fear or avoidance.
Inner Child Work (Parts Work): We explore the younger parts of you that still carry pain, helping them feel safe and integrated.
The BETTER Framework: My step-by-step process to move from simply surviving to thriving. You can read more about this in A Better Way: The Companion Guide.
Faith + Therapy Integration: For those who want it, I bring Scripture and spiritual support alongside proven therapeutic tools.

Each of these approaches is flexible, client-centered, and tailored to your pace. If anxiety is one of your main struggles, you may want to learn more about my Anxiety Counseling services, where I use these tools specifically to help calm the nervous system.

Real-Life Example: Finding the Right Fit

Many of my clients come to therapy thinking their struggles are just about the present—stress at work, conflict in relationships, or overwhelming anxiety. What they often discover is that their current challenges are deeply tied to unresolved pain from childhood. As they begin recognizing this “baggage,” processing the wounds, and taking steps toward healing, something powerful happens: their relationships grow healthier, their confidence strengthens, and they start to thrive in ways they didn’t think were possible.

This is why choosing the right provider matters. The title matters less than the connection you build and the trust you feel.

FAQs About Therapists vs. Counselors

1. Do therapists and counselors charge differently?

Not necessarily. In fact, some coaches or unlicensed counselors may charge more than a therapist who takes insurance. A licensed counselor or therapist with the same training may charge similar rates. Always ask about insurance, private pay options, and what’s included.

2. Can I switch if I start with one and it’s not working?

Absolutely. The relationship between you and your therapist or counselor is key. If something feels off, it’s okay to explore other options.

3. Does online therapy work as well as in-person?

Yes! Research shows online therapy is just as effective as in-person care for most concerns. Plus, you can do it from the comfort of your own home (or with your therapy dog curled up next to you—just like my sweet Miabella does during sessions).

4. How do I know if they’re qualified?

Look for credentials (LPC, LMFT, LCSW, PsyD, PhD) and experience with your concerns. Don’t hesitate to ask about their specialties. If you’re not ready to commit yet, you can explore my Healing Starter Kit for tools and resources to begin your journey.

The Bottom Line: Therapist or Counselor?

Here’s what I want you to take away: the “right” choice isn’t just about the title. It’s about finding someone who helps you feel seen, heard, and supported. Someone who offers tools and insight that move you forward—not keep you stuck.

If you’re in Central Texas or Florida and ready to take that next step, I’d love to come alongside you. Let’s find the approach that fits your needs, your story, and your goals.

Ready to get started? Schedule your free 15-minute consultation today. Your journey toward healing can begin with one simple step.

Therapist vs. Counselor: Which Is Better for You?

Understanding the Difference Between Therapist and Counselor