In recent years, therapeutic terms like “manipulation,” “gaslighting,” and various diagnostic labels have become part of everyday conversation. While raising awareness about mental health is important, the casual misuse of these terms can dilute their meaning and, more worryingly, endanger others.
The Problem with Mislabeling
When terms like “narcissist” or “gaslighting” are used loosely, they can lose their clinical significance. For example, calling someone a narcissist because they exhibit selfish behavior ignores the complex criteria required for a diagnosis of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Similarly, labeling disagreements or misunderstandings as “gaslighting” can trivialize the serious psychological abuse the term originally described.
This overuse can harm relationships, stigmatize individuals, and prevent people from getting the professional help they need. When diagnostic terms are thrown around carelessly, those truly suffering from mental health issues may feel invalidated or misunderstood. It can also lead to false accusations, damaging trust and communication between people.
How It Endangers Others
Misusing these terms doesn’t just dilute their meaning; it can also endanger others. For example, accusing someone of being manipulative or gaslighting without fully understanding the context can escalate conflicts and create unnecessary hostility. This can result in serious social consequences, from strained relationships to workplace discrimination.
Additionally, the use of terms based in incorrect information can lead to mismanagement of mental health concerns. It is important that the meaning behind words continue to carry their weight and effectively communicate the severity of an experience or situation. This dilution or twisting of terms can prevent someone from accessing the appropriate treatment or support they need.
A Call for Caution and Compassion
As therapists, we advocate for increased awareness and understanding of mental health. Instead of jumping to conclusions or labeling behaviors with clinical terms, let’s promote open, honest communication and encourage people to seek professional guidance when they’re struggling.
By being mindful of our language, we can help preserve the integrity of these important concepts and protect the mental health and well-being of ourselves and others.
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For readers seeking more information or guidance on mental health topics, consider scheduling an appointment with one of our therapists who can provide professional insight tailored to your individual needs. You can book an appointment by calling (352) 363- 1998.
Misusing clinical terms doesn’t just dilute their meaning; it can also endanger others. For example, accusing someone of being manipulative or gaslighting without fully understanding the context can escalate conflicts and create unnecessary hostility. This can result in serious social consequences, from strained relationships to workplace discrimination.
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In Florida, mental health counselors can be Graduate Interns, Registered Interns (RMHCI or RCSWI), or fully Licensed (LMHC, LMFT or LCSW). Are you confused by all these letters and titles? How do you know what to look for in a counselor?
Let’s take a look at what these different letters mean, and the pros and cons of pre- and post-licensed counselors.
Pre-Licensed:
RMHCI = Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
RCSWI = Registered Clinical Social Work Intern
Licensed:
LMHC = Licensed Mental Health Counselor
LMFT = Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
LCSW = Licensed Clinical Social Worker
What goes into being a Licensed therapist in Florida?
Does more experience mean better care?
Not necessarily! While having more experience can help, it doesn’t guarantee that your therapist stays up to date on the current literature or maintains the same energy and enthusiasm they came into the field with.
In fact, there are strong benefits in seeing an Interning counselor! While interning, Pre-Licensed therapists (Registered Interns) receive a ton of support and input from supervisors and colleagues. They’re exposed to multiple ideas and perspectives – something a licensed clinician may be missing. For you, this means you’re getting the expertise of many instead of just one.
New clinicians explore and shape their therapy modalities, approach clients with fresh eyes, and continually learn new approaches.
What are some additional benefits to Pre-Licensure therapists?
Affordability, the most recent evidence-based treatment, flexibility, and privacy!
Pre-Licensed therapists are up on the latest research, and can tailor this to your individual needs.
Most Pre-Licensed counselors and Graduate Interns offer reduced fees and/or offer sliding scale to help accommodate not being able to panel with insurance!
Research and changes in clinical literature move fast. While in Graduate programs, these new clinicians are exposed to the latest information in the field. While it’s ethically mandated that all clinicians keep up with the evolving literature as they maintain their licenses, graduate students are fully immersed in the new and evolving research. Budding clinicians are hungry for learning, and enthusiastic and creative in seeing what works with their clients! This fresh training and perspectives brings high energy into the counseling space.
And did you know that about 30% of counseling outcomes are determined by the therapeutic relationship? (Fernandez et al,. 2016; Debuis et al., 2013) In other words, the success of your therapy depends in large part on how you connect with your counselor! When working with teens and young adults, this is where Pre-Licensed Graduate Interns truly shine, as they are more likely to create bonds and be able to connect over current culture with them.
Finally, as Pre-Licensed counselors can’t take insurance, the steering clear of insurance in the therapy room benefits you and your privacy. Insurance companies require a written diagnosis, and this becomes part of your permanent clinical record. No insurance = no diagnosis included in your formal medical record.
When do you need a Licensed Therapist?
Needing a Licensed Therapist comes down to 2 primary things: insurance, and expertise in a specific therapeutic modality. Since most Pre-Licensed therapists can’t yet take insurance, if you absolutely need to use your insurance benefits, you’ll want to seek treatment with a licensed counselor who takes insurance.
And if you’re seeking a niche specialty with a highly specialized therapist, you might also prefer a Licensed Therapist. For example, Certified Sex Therapists, Gottman trained couples’ therapists, EMDR therapists, IFS therapists, and so on – all these specialities require significant post-licensure training. (Check to make sure your chosen therapist has had recent and ongoing continued education in their stated area of expertise.)
TLDR:
Registered Pre-Licensed Interns can be a great choice because:
Whatever your needs might be, there is a great counselor ready to meet you where you are at and help you live a more fulfilling and peaceful life!
At Wolcott Counseling & Wellness we have several therapists to choose from. Licensed and Pre-Licensed, we all share the commitment to exquisite care and excellent outcomes for you. Contact us via our website, www.wolcottcounseling.com, or request an appointment at 352-363-1998. We look forward to serving you!
References:
DeRubeis, R. J., Gelfand, L. A., German, R. E., Fournier, J. C., & Forand, N. R. (2013). Understanding processes of change: How some patients reveal more than others—and some groups of therapists less—about what matters in psychotherapy. Psychotherapy Research, 24(3), 419–428. https://doi.org/10.1080/10503307.2013.838654
Fernandez, O. M., Krause, M., & Pérez, J. C. (2016). Therapeutic alliance in the initial phase of psychotherapy with adolescents: different perspectives and their association with therapeutic outcomes. Research in Psychotherapy: Psychopathology, Process and Outcome, 19(1). https://doi.org/10.4081/ripppo.2016.180
Written by Jenny Banks M.Ed. Ed.S. RMHCI
