Which of the following is classified as a licensed mental health professional?

The classification of a licensed mental health professional encompasses various roles that are recognized and regulated by the state to provide mental health services. A clinical social worker holds a relevant license, which allows them to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health issues. They complete the necessary education, training, and licensing examinations as prescribed by state law. This formal recognition enables clinical social workers to practice therapy and engage in mental health interventions.

Psychiatrists and psychologists are also licensed mental health professionals. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses, and psychologists often hold a doctoral degree in psychology and are trained to provide psychological assessments and therapy. However, in this context, it seems the intention was to highlight a specific response, which the answer provided indicated as the chosen one.

In contrast, a life coach, while they may assist clients in achieving personal goals and improving their quality of life, does not require any formal mental health licensing or professional training mandated by law to practice. Therefore, they are not classified as licensed mental health professionals in the same way as clinical social workers, psychiatrists, or psychologists.