Therapist:
To become a licensed therapist, someone must get a master's degree, where they receive specialized training in programs like social work, counseling, psychology, and marriage and family therapy. After this, they must become licensed as a therapist, which requires passing an exam as well as hands-on training hours. The number of hours required depends on the state. Many licensed therapists specialize in drug and alcohol addiction treatment and can conduct individual and or group therapy. These individuals are qualified to deliver therapy specifically to those recovering from substance abuse issues like drug abuse, alcoholism, as well as mental health issues. Therapists delve into the deep psychological issues that underly addiction and mental health issues to help their patients heal.
MA:
A master of arts (MA) is an advanced academic degree, typically in the fields of literature, history, geography, philosophy, social sciences, fine arts and languages. Getting a master's degree is a requirement for therapists and counselors practicing in healthcare and mental health. Many therapists get an MA in Psychology, Counseling Psychology, or Clinical Mental Health Counseling (different schools offer different degree programs). Many counselors get an MA in Counseling. This degree is the academic prerequisite to become a substance abuse counselor or a marriage and family therapist (it is the "school" part of a therapist or counselor's training).
NCC:
A National Certified Counselor (NCC) has a master's degree in counseling. To obtain NCC professional certification, counselors must have completed at least 100 hours of supervised counseling over the course of two years. They must also have at least 3,000 hours of counseling work experience over two years. Someone with an NCC certification must comply with the code of ethics and conduct of the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). A counselor with this degree can work at a substance abuse rehab facility, and work with people with mental health issues. Some counselors specialize in helping with interventions.
LPC:
In order to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in social work, a person must have a master's degree in counseling. Depending on the state, an LPC may also be called a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). An LPC specializing in social work will look not just at a person's drug or alcohol addiction issues, but their economic and social status, their home environment, and other factors when determining a treatment plan for that patient. They are sensitive to issues like whether a person struggling with addiction has a safe home environment in which to recover (or whether they may need to go to a halfway house); whether a person has a job that will help support them in recovery or whether they need to change jobs, etc. Counselors help with the practicalities of everyday life and what will help support sobriety.