Psychologist, Criminologist, Social Worker, Sexologist… How do you choose?

When faced with distress or life’s challenges, we often feel the need to seek help. But once that decision is made, a new dilemma arises: which professional should we turn to? Between psychologists, criminologists, social workers, and sexologists, the titles multiply and the lines between them can seem blurred.

Yet everyone has their own unique perspective and way of understanding human nature.

Let's take a look at the differences between each role and how each one approaches understanding your needs: 

• Psychologist : Specializing in psychological functioning, emotions, and behaviors, the psychologist assesses and treats deep psychological distress by exploring the internal dynamics and personal history of the person in front of him or her. The psychologist does this through psychotherapy, which is a practice reserved exclusively for him or her. 
• Social Worker : This professional has expertise in the interaction between individuals and their social environment. They help people navigate life crises, family, work, or financial difficulties, and facilitate access to community resources. 
• Criminologist : For his part, he specializes in antisocial behavior, delinquency, and victimization. He analyzes the individual, social, and contextual factors associated with criminal behavior, violence, and criminal history. 
• Sexologist : As an expert in intimate and romantic relationships, he works with individuals and couples facing relationship or intimacy issues to help them move forward. 

But beware of labels! A professional’s work experience influences their area of specialization, which means that a criminologist may be qualified to help someone cope with grief, just as a social worker may be qualified to address the consequences of being a victim of a crime, for example. 

These titles primarily refer to academic training, and each professional has specific procedures reserved for his or her practice. One indicator of successful change in a person seeking care is the bond of trust with his counselor. In that sense, the most important thing is to connect with the person who is helping you, rather than focusing on their title. 

In fact, regardless of the title, what matters most is the professional’s adherence to their professional association. Not only does this regulate the use of the title, but more importantly, it ensures the protection of the public, since the professional is accountable to their professional association to guarantee the integrity of their practice.

Ultimately, how do you choose between psychotherapy and psychosocial support? It took me several years of experience to fully understand the difference. Here’s a chart that I hope will help clarify things: 

The more complicated it is, the more it can discourage us from seeking help. Unless you have a specific need for psychotherapy, start with a professional who puts you at ease, reassures you, and seems competent—regardless of their professional association.