Dr. Lopez, who operates a private psychology practice but cannot prescribe medication, falls under the category of a Clinical psychologist. Clinical psychologists are trained to provide psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals with mental health issues, but they do not have the authority to prescribe medication like psychiatrists do.
Here's a breakdown of the options:
1. Social worker: Social workers focus on helping individuals and communities with social and emotional issues, but they do not typically provide psychological evaluations or therapy.
2. Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health and can prescribe medication to treat mental health disorders.
3. Clinical psychologist: Clinical psychologists provide therapy and counseling services but do not have the authority to prescribe medication.
4. Mental health counselor: Mental health counselors offer counseling and support services, but they are not licensed to prescribe medication.
In this scenario, Dr. Lopez fits the description of a Clinical psychologist based on the fact that they operate a psychology practice without the ability to prescribe medication.
