Counselor/Therapist Credentials

[dujyt]

Hi,
Our family is exploring the possibility of counseling for my 16yo daughter. We live in a very rural area, so the options are limited, but I'd like to be more aware of what the different licenses for counselors mean. I've done a little Google searching, but it hasn't helped a lot.

Most of the counselors in our area have the MS credential after their name, but one also has LPC. Do you have any thoughts about credentials and what to look for or be wary of?

Thank-you.

[Mike Bradley]

First accept my apology for this delayed response. I've not been able to keep up with the letters to this forum (Attention other child experts and parents: PLEASE HELP BY RESPONDING).
It's best to call helpers directly and ask what their training and credentials are, and then consider checking those things out with license boards, credentialling agencies and so on. Any competent helper will understand what a reasonable question that is, and be happy to respond. After all, you are placing tremendous trust and responsibility into their hands.
Any helper who seems evasive or insulted by that question should be avoided.
Good luck.