Psychiatrists are medical doctors (i.e., physicians) who have additional training in psychology.  Psychiatrists are experts in understanding the effects of medications on the brain and human emotions and behaviour.  Psychiatrists prescribe medications such as anti-depressants or stimulants, for example, to treat depression or ADHD.  Psychiatrists’ expertise in medication management is highly valued particularly in the treatment of severe mental illnesses.

Clinical psychologists are experts in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illnesses. Clinical psychologists often use psychological instruments (e.g., intelligence, personality, neuropsychological, forensic tests) to assist with understanding the nature of the problem.

Clinical psychologists are also trained scientists who conduct research (e.g., treatment efficacy, brain processes, cognition), teach, and apply the latest research findings in treatment (e.g., rehabilitation, therapy). Some psychologists provide program evaluation and consultation to businesses, governments, other allied health professionals, etc. psychologist is a mental health professional who uses psychological evaluations and talk therapy to treat mental health conditions. A psychologist usually can’t prescribe medication.

Most provinces require a psychologist to have a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) and often has extensive training in research and clinical practice.

Clinical psychology (C.Psyc) is a field of psychology characterized by thorough knowledge of a broad scope of areas in and outside of psychology. Clinical psychology encompasses all ages, multiple diversities and more severe mental health conditions.

Clinical psychologists are experts in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illnesses. Clinical psychologists often use psychological instruments (e.g., intelligence, personality, neuropsychological, forensic tests) to assist with understanding the nature of the problem.

Clinical psychologists are also trained scientists who conduct research (e.g., treatment efficacy, brain processes, cognition), teach, and apply the latest research findings in treatment (e.g., rehabilitation, therapy). Some psychologists provide program evaluation and consultation to businesses, governments, other allied health professionals, etc. psychologist is a mental health professional who uses psychological evaluations and talk therapy to treat mental health conditions. A psychologist usually can’t prescribe medication.

Some provinces allow individuals to become psychologists with a master’s degree (MA). These clinicians, although full psychologists, are not called doctors because they don’t have a PhD.

Clinical psychology (C.Psyc) is a field of psychology characterized by thorough knowledge of a broad scope of areas in and outside of psychology. Clinical psychology encompasses all ages, multiple diversities and more severe mental health conditions.

Psychological associates are members of the College of Psychologists with Masters degrees who completed five years of supervised practice and examinations.

There is no practical difference between psychologists and psychological associates: both use psychological evaluations and talk therapy to treat mental health conditions. 

Clinical psychology (C.Psyc) is a field of psychology characterized by thorough knowledge of a broad scope of areas in and outside of psychology. Clinical psychology encompasses all ages, multiple diversities and more severe mental health conditions.

Psychotherapists are regulated mental health professionals who provide talk therapy and counselling. Training is varied from bachelor- to doctoral-level schooling and includes counsellors, psychotherapists, social workers, mental health nurses, and occupational therapists, to name a few.  Psychotherapists by law cannot communicate the diagnoses of mental disorders.  Psychotherapists play a vital role in providing access to mental health care through their work in community agencies, hospitals, as well as, private practices.

Social Workers, with the designations MSW (Masters of Social Work) and RSW (Registered Social Worker), bring a unique perspective to mental health care. Trained to assess, treat, and evaluate individuals, social workers employ social work knowledge and interventions to address psychosocial and social functioning.

While social workers cannot provide an official medical diagnosis, they may contribute valuable information to the diagnostic process and can assist clients in overcoming and managing symptoms of these mental health issues.

A psychometrist is responsible for the administration and scoring of psychological and neuropsychological tests under the supervision of a clinical psychologist. Although Canada does not currently have a regulatory body for psychometry, all psychometrists at Peakminds Psychology Services receive detailed training in psychological testing using a variety of measures and work closely with other clinicians to ensure that all testing is standardized.

A Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) or a Registered Psychologist (Qualifying) are qualified to practice psychotherapy.

All Registered Psychotherapists and Psychologists must complete their postgraduate program, supervision hours, and a registration exam. Those with the “Qualifying” status have completed their formal schooling program and working under a supervisor to complete their supervision hours.