Understanding the Roles of Pathway Therapists and Counselors: Providing Expert Trauma-Informed Care for Families
In the realm of mental health and emotional well-being, the terms “therapist” and “counselor” are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion about their roles and expertise. At Pathway Caring for Children, we understand that children and families who have experienced trauma need specialized care. Our team of therapists and counselors are here to provide that care, helping children and families heal from past wounds and move forward in a healthier, more positive direction. Though their educational backgrounds may vary, both our therapists and counselors are highly qualified professionals who are committed to helping those in need through trauma-informed, compassionate care.
What is a Therapist?
Therapists often hold a master’s or doctoral degree in fields like clinical social work, psychology, or marriage and family therapy. They are trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders and have experience in many different types of therapy. Therapists tend to focus on in-depth mental health treatment that can address the root of trauma and other emotional struggles.
What is a Counselor?
At Pathway Caring for Children, our counselors hold a bachelor’s degree in fields such as social work, psychology, or a related area, and they are licensed professionals. Their education equips them with the foundational knowledge in mental health and child development, while their licensure ensures they meet the professional standards set by the state. With specialized training and experience, our counselors are well-prepared to support children and families through a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and trauma-related challenges, providing compassionate and effective care tailored to each individual’s needs.
In Ohio, both bachelor’s and master’s degree holders in social work or counseling must complete supervised clinical hours to obtain licensure. For bachelor’s level, individuals can become Licensed Social Workers (LSW), while master’s degree holders may pursue higher licensure such as Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) after passing the state exams.
Regardless of the differences in education or approach, both therapists and counselors at Pathway share one important goal: to help children and families overcome trauma and emotional struggles so they can thrive.
Specialized Trauma-Informed Care
At Pathway, our therapists and counselors are extensively trained in trauma-informed care. Trauma-informed care goes beyond simply understanding trauma; it focuses on creating a safe, supportive environment where children and families can feel comfortable healing at their own pace. Trauma can deeply impact a child’s sense of security and self-worth, but with the right help, children can overcome its effects and build resilience.
Our professionals approach each case with empathy, patience, and a deep understanding of how trauma can affect every aspect of a child’s life, from emotional regulation to behavior. By focusing on creating trusting relationships, we can help children feel safe enough to open up, process their trauma, and learn new ways of coping with difficult emotions.
Helping Families Heal
At Pathway, we know that healing is a family journey. Whether a child is in foster care, adoption, or living with biological family members, everyone in the household may be affected. Our therapists and counselors work not only with the child but also with parents, caregivers, and siblings. They teach families how to communicate better, recognize triggers, and build healthy, supportive relationships.
Each family is unique, and our therapists and counselors tailor their approach to meet individual needs, ensuring personalized care for everyone.
Connect with the Right Professional Today
Find the ideal mental health support for your unique needs. Reach out to Pathway Caring for Children to discover the right therapist or counselor to guide you on your path to emotional well-being.
At Pathway Caring for Children, we carefully pair each child with a counselor or therapist based on their unique needs and experiences. We take into account factors such as the child’s age, the type of trauma they may have faced, their emotional and behavioral concerns, and any preferences or requests from the family. Our goal is to match each child with a professional who not only has the right expertise but also the ability to build a trusting and supportive relationship. This personalized approach ensures that your child receives the most effective and compassionate care on their journey toward healing.