We often have clients, family, or friends ask us – what’s the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist, and psychotherapist? These titles all sound so similar, it’s no wonder people get confused! We thought we’d write a quick blog post to help clarify.
Psychiatrists
- Medical Doctor with mental health specialty
- Registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO)
- Can prescribe medication
- Can diagnose Psychiatric/Psychological conditions
- Can provide mental health treatment
- Private practice, hospitals, and institutions
Psychologists
- PhD in Clinical Psychology
- Registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO)
- Can not prescribe medication
- Can diagnose Psychological conditions
- Can provide mental health treatment
- Private practice, hospitals, and institutions
Psychotherapists
- Master’s Degree in Psychology, Counselling, or Psychotherapy
- Registered with the College of Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO)
- Can not prescribe medication
- Can not diagnose Psychological conditions
- Can provide mental health treatment
- Private practice and institutions
Social Workers
- Bachelor or Master’s of Social Work
- May be registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)
- Can not prescribe medication
- Can not diagnose Psychological conditions
- Can provide mental health treatment
- Private practice and institutions
It is important to note that mental health services by any of these practitioners is likely not covered under OHIP unless seen through a hospital, school, or doctor’s office. However, any of these services may be covered under your extended health benefits. Most extended health care plans specify the type of the practitioner that you can see in order to get fees covered, so it is often helpful to understand the difference.
Each of these types of practitioners is typically trained in some capacity to address mental health concerns, and is registered with a regulating body to ensure that they are practicing ethically and within their scope of practice. Regardless of who you choose as your therapist/counsellor, the most important factor is the therapeutic relationship, and how well you connect with your therapist. Research has shown that the therapeutic relationship is more important than education, length of practice, type of practitioner, or modality of practice in determining success in therapy (Lisa Firestone, 2016).
Remember, it’s okay to talk to a couple of different practitioners before you choose, and it’s okay to switch therapists should you meet one that doesn’t work for you.
We know – this can be confusing! Here is a chart to summarize:
| Designation | Can Prescribe Medication | Can Diagnose Psychiatric Conditions | Can Treat Psychiatric Conditions |
| Psychiatrist | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Psychologist | No | Yes | Yes |
| Psychotherapist | No | No | Yes |
| Social Worker | No | No | Yes |
References
Lisa Firestone, P. (2016, December 22). The Importance of the Relationship in Therapy: How a strong therapeutic alliance can lead to real change. Retrieved from Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/compassion-matters/201612/the-importance-the-relationship-in-therapy
Kayleen Edwards
Registered Psychotherapist
RP, MA