Psychotherapy vs. Psychology: What’s the Difference in Canada?
If you’re seeking mental health support in Canada, you might come across different professionals—psychologists and psychotherapists—offering similar services. But while their roles can overlap, they are distinct in terms of education, regulation, and scope of practice.
In this article, we’ll explain the key differences between a psychologist and a psychotherapist in Canada, what each professional does, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Depending on your needs, you might find that a psychologist offers a more structured approach. On the other hand, a psychotherapist provides you with a deep emotional support and comprehensive care which helps you rise you again in life.
What Is a Psychotherapist?
In Canada, a psychotherapist is a licensed mental health professional trained to treat emotional, cognitive, and psychological issues through talk therapy. The term “psychotherapist” is legally regulated in some provinces, such as Ontario, where only members of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) can use the title.
Psychotherapists may come from diverse educational backgrounds—counselling, social work, psychology, or spiritual care—and are trained in various therapeutic approaches like:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- Humanistic or Person-Centred Therapy
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
- Somatic or trauma-informed methods
They do not prescribe medication or conduct formal psychological assessments, but they do offer long-term, supportive, and relational therapy to help clients manage mental health challenges.
A psychotherapist is often ideal for individuals looking to explore inner emotions and relationships in a safe, continuous setting.
What Exactly Does a Psychotherapist Do?
A psychotherapist helps individuals explore emotional difficulties, build coping strategies, and improve overall mental well-being. Sessions may focus on:
- Managing anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief
- Navigating relationships or family dynamics
- Building self-awareness and emotional resilience
- Healing from past experiences or attachment wounds
- Learning new ways to think and respond to life stressors
Psychotherapists often work in private practice, community clinics, or wellness centres. They typically provide weekly sessions and build therapeutic relationships over time to support deep emotional healing.
| Criteria | Psychologist | Psychotherapist |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Doctorate (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in Psychology | Master’s degree in Counselling, Social Work, etc. |
| Regulation | Regulated by provincial psychology colleges | Regulated in some provinces (e.g., CRPO in Ontario) |
| Assessment Services | Can diagnose mental disorders; conduct testing | Cannot diagnose or finalize psychological testing |
| Prescribing Medication | No (except in some U.S. states) | No |
| Therapeutic Focus | Often short-term, evidence-based treatment | Focus on long-term talk therapy and emotional work |
| Insurance Coverage | Often covered by extended benefits | Also covered, but depends on provider and plan |
How to Choose the Right Professional for Your Needs
When deciding between a psychologist and a psychotherapist, consider the following factors:
- Do you need a diagnosis or formal assessment?
→ See a psychologist for psychological testing or diagnostic clarification.
- Are you looking for long-term emotional support or talk therapy?
→ A psychotherapist may be a better fit for ongoing relational therapy.
- Are you dealing with a specific condition like ADHD, anxiety, or PTSD?
→ Both professionals may be qualified, but psychologists may use more structured protocols, while psychotherapists often offer trauma-informed or somatic-based approaches.
- Are you concerned about cost or insurance coverage?
→ Check your benefits plan. Both psychologists and psychotherapists can be covered under extended health insurance, but plans differ.
Read more: How to Find a Psychotherapist in Toronto
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between a psychologist and a psychotherapist in Canada can help you make an informed decision about your mental health care. While both are trained to support emotional and psychological well-being, they bring different tools, training, and focus areas to the table.
Choosing between a psychotherapist and psychologist depends on your goals. Whether it’s about healing emotional wounds or receiving structured mental health evaluation, understand their distinctiveness and choose wisely.
Whether you’re seeking a diagnosis, coping tools, or a space to process emotions, there is a mental health professional out there who can help.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between seeing a psychologist and a psychotherapist for mental health care?
Psychologists can assess, diagnose, and treat mental conditions. Psychotherapists focus mainly on talk therapy. Your choice depends on the severity of symptoms, treatment preferences, and whether diagnosis or therapy is the priority.
Does Canada's Medicare system include coverage for psychotherapy services?
Public healthcare in Canada generally doesn’t cover psychotherapy by private providers. However, services may be free in hospitals or clinics. Private insurance or employee benefits often help with costs.
Are psychotherapists qualified to diagnose mental health disorders?
In Canada, most psychotherapists do not diagnose mental illnesses unless also licensed as psychologists or psychiatrists. Their role typically focuses on providing therapeutic support and coping strategies rather than clinical diagnosis.
Who should I consult for anxiety treatment — a psychologist or a psychotherapist?
For anxiety, both can help. A psychologist can diagnose and treat more complex cases, while a psychotherapist offers emotional support and coping tools. Choose based on severity and personal comfort.
