What do the initials mean?

     I'm an LPC, a Licensed Professional Counselor.  This means I'm licensed to  work as a counselor, who counsels (listens and offers direction) in a skillful, professional way.  It also means that I can call myself a psychotherapist, a clinician who works within the psyche -- a mental health therapist, who, like a physical therapist or massage therapist, offers relief by helping to move and strengthen various parts.  Instead of working with muscles and tissue, for example, I work with thoughts and emotions.  
     I'm also a LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  This means I'm licensed to work with close relationships; I have extensive specific training in building and maintaining healthy relational skills.  In this realm I still work with thoughts and emotions, but additionally with safely communicating them.  Being an LMFT also means I can call myself a psychotherapist.  Another common set of initials for a psychotherapist is LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.  LCSW's are especially trained to connect people with resources in community. 

Update: In 2024, I also became licensed in California as a LPCC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.  Texas (LPC) and California (LPCC) have slightly different approaches to Counseling, wherein Texas allows the license to include pastoral and career counseling, while California focuses on clinical work.  

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