Professional training is similar for substance abuse counselors as for mental health counselors, and a Master's degree is generally preferred.

             Social workers work with clients who need help with a range of issues not limited to mental health diagnoses. For example, social workers often assist the poor, the physically disabled, and the elderly in reaching optimal wellness. Social workers do address issues commonly covered by mental health counselors such as substance abuse or depression, but frame those problems as a subset of broader community and social issues. For example, a social worker will take into account community outreach services, housing conditions, and job opportunities as well as family background and mental health. Many social workers can practice with a Bachelor's degree but a Master's is generally preferred. Working in a wide range of facilities, many social workers also work with nonprofit organizations. Social workers enjoy a range of career opportunities, especially those willing to work in rural rather than urban areas, where job competition is strong ("Social Workers").

             According to the US. Department of Labor, clinical psychologists "help mentally and emotionally disturbed clients adjust to life and may assist medical and surgical patients in dealing with illnesses or injuries." Many clinical psychologists are self-employed and run their own private practices, while many others work full-time in hospitals, mental health facilities, or in private or nonprofit organizations. Clinical psychologists often choose to specialize in a particular population group or in a particular area of concern like substance abuse. Some become more closely involved with research and academia than with client counseling. Generally, clinical psychologists need a PhD as a professional credential. Job outlook is positive, as a demand for clinical psychologists is growing.

             With requisite medical training, psychiatrists are authorized to administer therapeutic drugs to their clients in addition to providing counseling, assessment, and therapy.