Trying to find the right kind of therapist in Oklahoma? You’re not alone. This guide will help you understand the differences between LPCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, LADCs, and more—so you can find the support that fits you best.
What These Professionals Have in Common
No matter the title, licensed mental health providers in Oklahoma all:
- Have graduate-level education
- Complete supervised clinical experience
- Follow strict ethical codes and confidentiality laws
- Use evidence-based methods to help you heal and grow
So which one is right for you? Let’s take a closer look.
LPC: Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselors support individuals and families with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. They often use CBT, solution-focused therapy, and other trusted tools.
Common areas treated:
- Anxiety and depression
- Life transitions
- Stress management
- Trauma and grief recovery
Best for: Individuals looking for general therapy with broad expertise.
LMFT: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Marriage and Family Therapists focus on relationships—between couples, families, and even within individuals. LMFTs look at how systems, like families and partnerships, affect mental health.
Common areas treated:
- Communication problems
- Family or parenting stress
- Couples therapy
- Adolescent and teen issues
Best for: Anyone navigating family or relational struggles.
LCSW: Licensed Clinical Social Worker
LCSWs are trained therapists with added expertise in community systems and support services. Many work in schools, hospitals, and private practice.
Common areas treated:
- Grief, trauma, and depression
- Child and family therapy
- Navigating life systems and resources
- Emotional support and advocacy
Best for: Clients who need both emotional support and help navigating real-world challenges.
LBP: Licensed Behavioral Practitioner
Unique to Oklahoma, LBPs provide counseling services with similar scope to LPCs, often with different educational pathways.
Common areas treated:
- Emotional or behavioral concerns
- Anxiety and stress
- Relationship issues
- General counseling needs
Best for: Accessible, licensed care for behavioral and emotional support.
LADC: Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor
LADCs are specially trained in substance use disorders and addiction recovery. They provide therapy and relapse prevention tools.
Common areas treated:
- Alcohol or drug addiction
- Co-occurring mental health concerns
- Relapse prevention
- Recovery support for individuals and families
Best for: Clients in addiction recovery or seeking substance-related support.
Pastoral Counselor
Pastoral counselors combine spiritual care with therapeutic tools. Some are also licensed clinicians; others serve in faith-based environments.
Common areas treated:
- Grief, loss, and spiritual challenges
- Christian marriage counseling
- Personal identity through a faith lens
- Emotional healing with biblical values
Best for: Clients who want their spiritual beliefs integrated into their therapy.
Choosing the Right Fit
| Need | Try… |
|---|---|
| Relationship or family issues | LMFT |
| Spiritual guidance | Pastoral Counselor or LMFT with faith background |
| Addiction recovery | LADC |
| Community/social support | LCSW |
| General mental health | LPC, LMFT, LCSW or LBP |
My Approach as an LMFT
At England Therapy, I work with teens, men, and families to address anxiety, ADHD, emotional regulation, and relationship issues. I also offer faith-based counseling for clients who want to integrate Christian values into their healing journey.
In addition to talk therapy, I provide neurofeedback, a powerful, non-invasive tool that helps retrain the brain to improve focus, mood, and resilience.
