By the First Session Editorial Team
Psychiatrist vs. Psychologist vs. Social Worker vs. Psychotherapist
How therapist titles are regulated across Canada — compare education, scope of practice, and cost, province by province.
Browse all therapistsIf you’ve been looking for therapists in Canada, you may have noticed many different types of counsellors. According to the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, there are more than 70 mental health professional titles covering various types of therapies in Canada.
What do they all mean?
In Canada, the titles of psychiatrist, psychologist or social worker are regulated by law at the provincial level. That means, if you’ve found a therapist with one of those designations, you’ll know they must meet specific education and training requirements to use that title. They are also overseen by a legally appointed organization—a college or an association.
Depending on which province you live in, the titles of psychotherapist or counsellingtherapist may or may not be regulated. In unregulated provinces (Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and all three territories), you can look for therapists with the title Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), which is overseen at a national level by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.
In addition to the CCPA at a national level, there are associations at the provincial level that may certify their professionals. For example, if you’re looking for a counsellor in British Columbia, look for certified practitioners with credentials such as Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), provided by the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.
First Session carefully vets all therapists and counsellors to ensure they meet requirements in their region and are certified by the correct legal or credible self-governing bodies.
We know this can be confusing. The chart below outlines which provinces currently regulate counselling and psychotherapy, as well as the varying regulations for psychologists and social workers.
What about those other 70+ titles? Do a little digging before working with someone. You might get advice and guidance from professionals like a life coach — that’s great! — but they are not a certified or licensed therapist unless they meet the regulations for psychology, social work or psychotherapy/counselling therapy in your province as well.
Note: Anywhere in Canada, a psychiatrist will need to be certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) at a national level, and they will need to register with the appropriate medical college at the provincial level. They are not included in the chart.
Read more:Psychiatrist vs. psychologist vs. social worker vs. psychotherapist
ON
Ontario
When looking for therapists in Ontario, the titles of Registered Psychotherapist or Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Registered Social Worker (RSW), Psychologists and Psychological Associates are all regulated.
Find a therapist in Ontario| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Psychological Associate | Registered Social Services Worker (RSSW) | Registered Social Worker (RSW) | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | Registered Psychotherapist (RP) | |
| Education | PhD or equivalent | Master's degree | College Diploma | Bachelor's degree | Master's or PhD | Master's degree or "demonstrated competency" |
| Training hours | 4,000 hours under supervision | 1,500 hours under supervision | Demonstrated experience in social work within 5 years of application | Demonstrated experience in social work within 5 years of application | Based on graduation date** <5 years: 150 direct client hours w/ practicum placement 5+ years: 800 direct client hours w/in last 5 yrs | Exam + 450 direct client hours + 100 hours clinical supervision* |
| Provincially regulated | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Regulatory body | College of Psychologists of Ontario | College of Psychologists of Ontario | Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers | Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario |
| Associations | Ontario Psychological Association | Ontario Psychological Association | Ontario Association of Social Workers | Ontario Association of Social Workers | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists |
| Can diagnose | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No |
| Can prescribe | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Cost / session | $200 - $300 | $125+ | $50 - $150 | $100 - $200+ | $50 - $150+ | $100 - $200+ |
| Coverage likelihood | Medium - High | Medium | Medium | Medium - High | Medium - Low | Medium - High |
| What to expect | May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy + psychological assessments | May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | May offer counselling, community services and social support programs | May offer counselling or psychotherapy (if registered) | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. | Offers psychotherapy |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- PhD or equivalent
- Training hours
- 4,000 hours under supervision
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- College of Psychologists of Ontario
- Associations
- Ontario Psychological Association
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $200 - $300
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - High
- What to expect
- May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy + psychological assessments
Psychological Associate
- Education
- Master's degree
- Training hours
- 1,500 hours under supervision
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- College of Psychologists of Ontario
- Associations
- Ontario Psychological Association
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $125+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Social work
Registered Social Services Worker (RSSW)
- Education
- College Diploma
- Training hours
- Demonstrated experience in social work within 5 years of application
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
- Associations
- Ontario Association of Social Workers
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $150
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- May offer counselling, community services and social support programs
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
- Education
- Bachelor's degree
- Training hours
- Demonstrated experience in social work within 5 years of application
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
- Associations
- Ontario Association of Social Workers
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $100 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - High
- What to expect
- May offer counselling or psychotherapy (if registered)
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- Based on graduation date** <5 years: 150 direct client hours w/ practicum placement 5+ years: 800 direct client hours w/in last 5 yrs
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $150+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - Low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
Registered Psychotherapist (RP)
- Education
- Master's degree or "demonstrated competency"
- Training hours
- Exam + 450 direct client hours + 100 hours clinical supervision*
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
- Associations
- Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $100 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - High
- What to expect
- Offers psychotherapy
BC
British Columbia
The types of counsellors in British Columbia that are regulated include Registered Social Worker, Psychologist, and Psychotherapist. Counsellor designations such as Registered Clinical Counsellor, Registered Professional Counsellor, and Registered Therapeutic Counsellor are self regulated by member associations, but often receive coverage from the major insurance companies. For more information on regulatory status in BC, refer to https://bcacc.ca/
Find a therapist in British Columbia| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Psychological Associate | Registered Social Worker (RSW) | Master's of Social Work (MSW) | Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW) | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) | Psychotherapist | |
| Education | PhD | Master's degree | Bachelor's degree | Master's degree | Master's degree + additional clinical certifications | Master's or PhD | Master's degree | Master's degree |
| Training hours | 600 hours practica + 1,600 internship | 1 year for post-masters supervised internship and 3 years supervised practice | Provincial exams and some practical experience | Provincial exams and some practical experience | Provincial exams and some practical experience | Based on graduation date** <5 years: 150 direct client hours w/ practicum placement 5+ years: 800 direct client hours w/in last 5 yrs | 100 hours of clinical supervision | In progress |
| Provincially regulated | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Regulatory body | College of Psychologists of British Columbia | College of Psychologists of British Columbia | British Columbia College of Social Workers | British Columbia College of Social Workers | British Columbia College of Social Workers | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | BC Association of Clinical Counsellors | BC Government |
| Associations | BC Psychological Association | BC Psychological Association | BC Association of Social Workers | BC Association of Social Workers | BC Association of Social Workers | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | BC Association of Clinical Counsellors | 14 self-regulated associations |
| Can diagnose | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Can prescribe | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Cost / session | $200 - $300 | $125+ | $50 - $90 + | $50 - $90 + | $50 - $90 + | $50 - $150+ | $120 - $200 | NA |
| Coverage likelihood | Medium - High | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium - Low | Medium | NA |
| What to expect | May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | May offer counselling or therapy | May offer counselling or therapy | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. | TBD |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- PhD
- Training hours
- 600 hours practica + 1,600 internship
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- College of Psychologists of British Columbia
- Associations
- BC Psychological Association
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $200 - $300
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - High
- What to expect
- May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Psychological Associate
- Education
- Master's degree
- Training hours
- 1 year for post-masters supervised internship and 3 years supervised practice
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- College of Psychologists of British Columbia
- Associations
- BC Psychological Association
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $125+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Social work
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
- Education
- Bachelor's degree
- Training hours
- Provincial exams and some practical experience
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- British Columbia College of Social Workers
- Associations
- BC Association of Social Workers
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Master's of Social Work (MSW)
- Education
- Master's degree
- Training hours
- Provincial exams and some practical experience
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- British Columbia College of Social Workers
- Associations
- BC Association of Social Workers
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- May offer counselling or therapy
Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW)
- Education
- Master's degree + additional clinical certifications
- Training hours
- Provincial exams and some practical experience
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- British Columbia College of Social Workers
- Associations
- BC Association of Social Workers
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- May offer counselling or therapy
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- Based on graduation date** <5 years: 150 direct client hours w/ practicum placement 5+ years: 800 direct client hours w/in last 5 yrs
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $150+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - Low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)
- Education
- Master's degree
- Training hours
- 100 hours of clinical supervision
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- BC Association of Clinical Counsellors
- Associations
- BC Association of Clinical Counsellors
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $120 - $200
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
Psychotherapist
- Education
- Master's degree
- Training hours
- In progress
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- BC Government
- Associations
- 14 self-regulated associations
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- NA
- Coverage likelihood
- NA
- What to expect
- TBD
AB
Alberta
Registered Social Workers (RSW) and Psychologists are the regulated titles for therapists and counsellors in Alberta. Regulations passed for the title of Counselling Therapist but a governing college is not yet in place.
Find a therapist in Alberta| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Registered Social Worker | Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW) | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | Provisional Psychologist | |
| Education | Master's degree or PhD | Diploma, Bachelor's or Master's Degree | Master's degree and additional education | Master's or PhD | Master's degree |
| Training hours | 1 year (1,600 hours) post-masters | Varied: up to 400 hours | 1,600 hours supervised practice + 100 hours clinical supervision | Based on graduation date** <5 years: 150 direct client hours w/ practicum placement 5+ years: 800 direct client hours w/in last 5 yrs | 1600 supervised hours |
| Provincially regulated | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Regulatory body | College of Alberta Psychologists | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | Regulated but no college yet proclaimed | ||
| Associations | Psychologists Association of Alberta | Alberta College of Social Workers | Alberta College of Social Workers | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | College of Alberta Psychologists |
| Can diagnose | Yes | No | TBD | No | No |
| Can prescribe | No | No | No | No | No |
| Cost / session | $200 - $300 | $50 - $90 + | $50 - $90 + | $50 - $200+ | NA |
| Coverage likelihood | Medium - high | Medium | Medium | Medium - low | NA |
| What to expect | May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | May offer counselling or therapy | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. | Psychotherapy |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- Master's degree or PhD
- Training hours
- 1 year (1,600 hours) post-masters
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- College of Alberta Psychologists
- Associations
- Psychologists Association of Alberta
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $200 - $300
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Social work
Registered Social Worker
- Education
- Diploma, Bachelor's or Master's Degree
- Training hours
- Varied: up to 400 hours
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Associations
- Alberta College of Social Workers
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW)
- Education
- Master's degree and additional education
- Training hours
- 1,600 hours supervised practice + 100 hours clinical supervision
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Associations
- Alberta College of Social Workers
- Can diagnose
- TBD
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- May offer counselling or therapy
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- Based on graduation date** <5 years: 150 direct client hours w/ practicum placement 5+ years: 800 direct client hours w/in last 5 yrs
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
Provisional Psychologist
- Education
- Master's degree
- Training hours
- 1600 supervised hours
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Regulated but no college yet proclaimed
- Associations
- College of Alberta Psychologists
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- NA
- Coverage likelihood
- NA
- What to expect
- Psychotherapy
QC
Quebec
A number of titles for therapists in Quebec are regulated by the provincial law. Quebec Regulates the titles of Psychologist, Psychotherapist and Social Worker. Marriage and family therapists also fall under the regulations overseeing social workers in the province. Other professionals, like guidance counsellors, criminologists, occupational therapists, nurses, psychoeducators, sexologists, family therapists and social workers can also only practice psychotherapy with a psychotherapy permit.
Find a therapist in Quebec| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Social Worker | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | Psychotherapist | |
| Education | PhD | Bachelor's or master's degree in social work | Master's or PhD | Master's degree |
| Training hours | 2,300 hours of supervised practice and 45 hours of code of ethics training | NA | 150 supervised hours | 765 hours of university-level theoretical training + 600 hours psychotherapy training |
| Provincially regulated | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Regulatory body | Order of Psychologists of Quebec | Quebec Order of Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists | Order of Psychologists of Quebec | |
| Associations | Association des psychologues du Quebec | Quebec Order of Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | Quebec Counselling Association |
| Can diagnose | Yes | No | No | No |
| Can prescribe | No | No | No | No |
| Cost / session | $200 - $300 | $50 - $90 + | $50 - $200+ | NA |
| Coverage likelihood | Medium - high | Medium | Medium - low | NA |
| What to expect | If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy, if permitted by the Order of Psychologists of Quebec | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- PhD
- Training hours
- 2,300 hours of supervised practice and 45 hours of code of ethics training
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Order of Psychologists of Quebec
- Associations
- Association des psychologues du Quebec
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $200 - $300
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Social work
Social Worker
- Education
- Bachelor's or master's degree in social work
- Training hours
- NA
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- May offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy, if permitted by the Order of Psychologists of Quebec
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- 150 supervised hours
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
Psychotherapist
- Education
- Master's degree
- Training hours
- 765 hours of university-level theoretical training + 600 hours psychotherapy training
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Order of Psychologists of Quebec
- Associations
- Quebec Counselling Association
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- NA
- Coverage likelihood
- NA
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
SK
Saskatchewan
Counsellors in Saskatchewan are regulated under the titles of Psychologist and Social Worker. Regulations are coming for the title of Counselling Therapist but they are not yet in place.
Find a therapist in Saskatchewan| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Social Worker | Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW) | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | Psychotherapist | |
| Education | Master's degree and above | Bachelor's degree and above | Master's degree | Master's or PhD | NA |
| Training hours | ~1,500 hours of supervised training | 40 hours of continuing professional education, annually | Clinical placement of 450 hours + 3,000 hours post-degree practice in a clinical setting | 150 supervised hours | 765 hours of university-level theoretical training + 600 hours psychotherapy training |
| Provincially regulated | Yes | Yes | No | No | In progress |
| Regulatory body | Saskatchewan College of Psychologists | Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers | Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers | NA | |
| Associations | Psychology Association of Saskatchewan | Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers | Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | Federation of Associations for Counselling Therapists in Saskatchewan (FACT-SK) |
| Can diagnose | Yes | No | Yes | No | No |
| Can prescribe | No | No | No | No | No |
| Cost / session | $200 - $300 | $50 - $90 + | NA | $50 - $200+ | NA |
| Coverage likelihood | Medium - high | Medium | Medium | Medium - low | NA |
| What to expect | If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice | Can work in clinical mental health settings to assess and diagnose mental health disorders | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- Master's degree and above
- Training hours
- ~1,500 hours of supervised training
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Saskatchewan College of Psychologists
- Associations
- Psychology Association of Saskatchewan
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $200 - $300
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Social work
Social Worker
- Education
- Bachelor's degree and above
- Training hours
- 40 hours of continuing professional education, annually
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers
- Associations
- Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice
Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW)
- Education
- Master's degree
- Training hours
- Clinical placement of 450 hours + 3,000 hours post-degree practice in a clinical setting
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers
- Associations
- Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- NA
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- Can work in clinical mental health settings to assess and diagnose mental health disorders
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- 150 supervised hours
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
Psychotherapist
- Education
- NA
- Training hours
- 765 hours of university-level theoretical training + 600 hours psychotherapy training
- Provincially regulated
- In progress
- Regulatory body
- NA
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- NA
- Coverage likelihood
- NA
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
MB
Manitoba
Therapists and counsellors in Manitoba are regulated under the titles of Social Worker, Psychologist and Psychological Associate. Regulations are in progress for the title of Counselling Therapist.
Find a therapist in Manitoba| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Psychological Associate | Social Worker | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | Counselling Therapist | |
| Education | PhD | Master's | Bachelor's or Master's of Social Work (MSW) | Master's or PhD | NA |
| Training hours | 2 years of supervised practice under another registered psychologist | 4 years of post degree supervision under another registered Psychologist | 5600 social work practice hours within 5 years or registration + registration exam | 150 supervised hours | NA |
| Provincially regulated | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | In progress |
| Regulatory body | Psychological Association of Manitoba | Psychological Association of Manitoba | Manitoba College of Social Workers | ||
| Associations | Manitoba Psychological Society | Manitoba Psychological Society | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | Federation of Associations for Counselling Therapists in Manitoba | |
| Can diagnose | Yes | Yes, under supervision | In some contexts | No | No |
| Can prescribe | No | No | No | No | No |
| Cost / session | $150+ | $100+ | $50 - $90 + | $50 - $200+ | $50 - $200+ |
| Coverage likelihood | Medium - high | Medium | Medium - high | Medium - low | Medium - high |
| What to expect | If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- PhD
- Training hours
- 2 years of supervised practice under another registered psychologist
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Psychological Association of Manitoba
- Associations
- Manitoba Psychological Society
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $150+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Psychological Associate
- Education
- Master's
- Training hours
- 4 years of post degree supervision under another registered Psychologist
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Psychological Association of Manitoba
- Associations
- Manitoba Psychological Society
- Can diagnose
- Yes, under supervision
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $100+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Social work
Social Worker
- Education
- Bachelor's or Master's of Social Work (MSW)
- Training hours
- 5600 social work practice hours within 5 years or registration + registration exam
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Manitoba College of Social Workers
- Associations
- Can diagnose
- In some contexts
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- 150 supervised hours
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
Counselling Therapist
- Education
- NA
- Training hours
- NA
- Provincially regulated
- In progress
- Regulatory body
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
NL
Newfoundland and Labrador
When looking for a therapist in Newfoundland and Labrador, the titles of Social Worker and Psychologist are regulated. Regulations are in progress for the title of Counselling Therapist.
Find a therapist in Newfoundland and Labrador| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Registered Social Worker (RSW) | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | Counselling Therapist | |
| Education | Master's degree or PhD | Bachelor's, Master's or dDoctoral degree | Master's or PhD | NA |
| Training hours | One year of supervisded professional experience for PhDs, two years for master's + exam | 700 hours of field placement for bachelor's degree | 150 supervised hours | NA |
| Provincially regulated | Yes | Yes | No | In progress |
| Regulatory body | Newfoundland and Labrador Psychology Board | Newfoundland & Labrador College of Social Workers | ||
| Associations | Association of Psychologists in Newfoundland and Labrador (APNL) | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | Federation of Associations for Counselling Therapists in Newfoundland and Labrador (FACT-NL) | |
| Can diagnose | Yes | In some contexts | No | No |
| Can prescribe | No | No | No | No |
| Cost / session | $150+ | $50 - $90 + | $50 - $200+ | $50 - $200+ |
| Coverage likelihood | Medium - high | Medium | Medium - low | Medium - high |
| What to expect | If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- Master's degree or PhD
- Training hours
- One year of supervisded professional experience for PhDs, two years for master's + exam
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Newfoundland and Labrador Psychology Board
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $150+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Social work
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
- Education
- Bachelor's, Master's or dDoctoral degree
- Training hours
- 700 hours of field placement for bachelor's degree
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Newfoundland & Labrador College of Social Workers
- Associations
- Can diagnose
- In some contexts
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- 150 supervised hours
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
Counselling Therapist
- Education
- NA
- Training hours
- NA
- Provincially regulated
- In progress
- Regulatory body
- Associations
- Federation of Associations for Counselling Therapists in Newfoundland and Labrador (FACT-NL)
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
NB
New Brunswick
Therapists and counsellors in New Brunswick are regulated under the titles of Social Worker and Psychologists and Licensed Counselling Therapist (LCT). The regulations overseeing LCTs also apply for the professional titles of Registered Counselling Therapists and Licensed/Registered Career Counsellors.
Find a therapist in New Brunswick| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Registered Social Worker (RSW) | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | Licensed / Registered Counselling Therapist | |
| Education | PhD | Bachelor's degree | Master's or PhD | Master's degree |
| Training hours | Min 70% score on Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) | Supervised practical experience is usually required | 150 supervised hours | 150 hours direct client work post-master's program |
| Provincially regulated | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Regulatory body | College of Psychologists of New Brunswick | New Brunswick Association of Social Workers | The College of Counselling Therapists of New Brunswick (CCTNB) | |
| Associations | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | |||
| Can diagnose | Yes | In some contexts | No | No |
| Can prescribe | No | No | No | No |
| Cost / session | $180 + | $50 - $90 + | $50 - $200+ | $50 - $200+ |
| Coverage likelihood | Medium - high | Medium | Medium - low | Medium - high |
| What to expect | If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. | New Brunswick, under this legislation, also protects the titles of Licensed Career Counsellor, Registered Career Counsellor |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- PhD
- Training hours
- Min 70% score on Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- College of Psychologists of New Brunswick
- Associations
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $180 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Social work
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
- Education
- Bachelor's degree
- Training hours
- Supervised practical experience is usually required
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- New Brunswick Association of Social Workers
- Associations
- Can diagnose
- In some contexts
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- 150 supervised hours
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
Licensed / Registered Counselling Therapist
- Education
- Master's degree
- Training hours
- 150 hours direct client work post-master's program
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Associations
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- New Brunswick, under this legislation, also protects the titles of Licensed Career Counsellor, Registered Career Counsellor
NS
Nova Scotia
The titles of Psychologist, Registered Social Worker (RSW) and Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) are all regulated titles for therapists and counsellors in Nova Scotia.
Find a therapist in Nova Scotia| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Registered Social Worker (RSW) | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) | |
| Education | Master's or PHD | Bachelor's or Master's degree | Master's or PhD | Master's or PhD |
| Training hours | 4 years supervised work for master's degree, 2 years of supervised work for a PhD + exam | 2500 hours of practice experience post-graduation | 150 supervised hours | 120 hours of practice experience |
| Provincially regulated | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Regulatory body | Nova Scotia Board of Examiners in Psychology | Nova Scotia College of Social Workers | Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists | |
| Associations | Association of Psychologists of Nova Scotia | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | ||
| Can diagnose | Yes | In some contexts | No | No |
| Can prescribe | No | No | No | No |
| Cost / session | $210+ | $50 - $90 + | $50 - $200+ | $50 - $200+ |
| Coverage likelihood | Medium - high | Medium | Medium - low | Medium - high |
| What to expect | If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- Master's or PHD
- Training hours
- 4 years supervised work for master's degree, 2 years of supervised work for a PhD + exam
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Nova Scotia Board of Examiners in Psychology
- Associations
- Association of Psychologists of Nova Scotia
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $210+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Social work
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
- Education
- Bachelor's or Master's degree
- Training hours
- 2500 hours of practice experience post-graduation
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Nova Scotia College of Social Workers
- Associations
- Can diagnose
- In some contexts
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- 150 supervised hours
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT)
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- 120 hours of practice experience
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists
- Associations
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
PEI
Prince Edward Island
Therapists in Prince Edward Island are regulated under the titles of Psychologist, Registered Social Worker (RSW) and Counselling Therapist.
Find a therapist in Prince Edward Island| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Registered Social Worker (RSW) | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | Counselling Therapist | |
| Education | PhD | Bachelor's degree and above | Master's or PhD | Master's degree |
| Training hours | 600 hours doctoral practicum, 1,700 hours of a doctoral internship | Four years field experience, or equivalent hours + 25 continuing education annually | 150 supervised hours | 750 hours of approved work experience |
| Provincially regulated | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Regulatory body | Prince Edward Island Psychologists Registration Board | Prince Edward Island Social Work Registration Board | The College of Counselling Therapy of Prince Edward Island (CCTPEI) | |
| Associations | Psychological Association of Prince Edward Island | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association | ||
| Can diagnose | Yes | In some contexts | No | No |
| Can prescribe | No | No | No | No |
| Cost / session | $210+ | $50 - $90 + | $50 - $200+ | $100+ |
| Coverage likelihood | Medium - high | Medium | Medium - low | Medium - high |
| What to expect | If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- PhD
- Training hours
- 600 hours doctoral practicum, 1,700 hours of a doctoral internship
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Prince Edward Island Psychologists Registration Board
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $210+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Social work
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
- Education
- Bachelor's degree and above
- Training hours
- Four years field experience, or equivalent hours + 25 continuing education annually
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Regulatory body
- Prince Edward Island Social Work Registration Board
- Associations
- Can diagnose
- In some contexts
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $90 +
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- 150 supervised hours
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
Counselling Therapist
- Education
- Master's degree
- Training hours
- 750 hours of approved work experience
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Associations
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $100+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
NWT
Northwest Territories
Therapists in the Northwest Territories are regulated under the titles of Psychologist and Registered Social Worker (RSW). There are currently no regulations for psychotherapy or counselling therapy in place.
Find a therapist in Northwest Territories| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Social Worker | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | |
| Education | Master's or PhD | Bachelor's degree | Master's or PhD |
| Training hours | 1,600 hours practical experience while on the internship registry | Annual continuing competency requirements | 150 supervised hours |
| Provincially regulated | Yes | Yes | No |
| Regulatory body | Registrar, Professional Licensing with the Department of Health and Social Services | Registrar, Professional Licensing with the Department of Health and Social Services | |
| Associations | Association of Psychologists of the Northwest Territories | Association of Social Workers in Northern Canada | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association |
| Can diagnose | Yes | In some contexts | No |
| Can prescribe | No | No | No |
| Cost / session | NA | NA | $50 - $200+ |
| Coverage likelihood | Medium - high | Medium | Medium - low |
| What to expect | If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy | Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- 1,600 hours practical experience while on the internship registry
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Can diagnose
- Yes
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- NA
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - high
- What to expect
- If working with clients, can offer psychotherapy or counselling therapy
Social work
Social Worker
- Education
- Bachelor's degree
- Training hours
- Annual continuing competency requirements
- Provincially regulated
- Yes
- Associations
- Association of Social Workers in Northern Canada
- Can diagnose
- In some contexts
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- NA
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium
- What to expect
- Can offer counselling in a number of settings, including one-on-one with clients in private practice
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- 150 supervised hours
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
YK
Yukon
Like Nunavut, therapists in the Yukon are only regulated under the title of Psychologist. Yukon and Nunavut do not currently require registration to practice as a social worker. There are currently no regulations for psychotherapy or counselling therapy in place.
Find a therapist in Yukon| Designation | Psychology | Social work | Counselling and psychotherapy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Social Worker | Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)Federal | |
| Education | NA | Diploma | Master's or PhD |
| Training hours | NA | NA | 150 supervised hours |
| Provincially regulated | No | No | No |
| Regulatory body | NA | NA | |
| Associations | Canadian Psychological Association (national) | Association of Social Workers in Northern Canada | Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association |
| Can diagnose | NA | No | No |
| Can prescribe | NA | No | No |
| Cost / session | NA | NA | $50 - $200+ |
| Coverage likelihood | NA | NA | Medium - low |
| What to expect | Yukon has no provincial legislation governing practice of psychology | Social workers in the Yukon would provide community social services with a diploma education | Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities. |
Psychology
Psychologist
- Education
- NA
- Training hours
- NA
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- NA
- Associations
- Canadian Psychological Association (national)
- Can diagnose
- NA
- Can prescribe
- NA
- Cost / session
- NA
- Coverage likelihood
- NA
- What to expect
- Yukon has no provincial legislation governing practice of psychology
Social work
Social Worker
- Education
- Diploma
- Training hours
- NA
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- NA
- Associations
- Association of Social Workers in Northern Canada
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- NA
- Coverage likelihood
- NA
- What to expect
- Social workers in the Yukon would provide community social services with a diploma education
Counselling and psychotherapy
Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.)
Federal
- Education
- Master's or PhD
- Training hours
- 150 supervised hours
- Provincially regulated
- No
- Regulatory body
- Can diagnose
- No
- Can prescribe
- No
- Cost / session
- $50 - $200+
- Coverage likelihood
- Medium - low
- What to expect
- Array of talk therapy and other therapy or counselling methods and modalities.
* Until the RP requirements are complete, qualifying members of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) can use the titles of Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) or RP (Qualifying). Registered Psychotherapists (RP) are permitted by the CRPO to practice independently only once they have completed 1,000 direct client contact hours and 150 hours of clinical supervision.
** The Canadian Certified Counsellor (C.C.C.) designation with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) has two pathways. Pathway one is for new professionals who completed their graduate degree (master's or PhD) under five years ago. Pathway two is for experienced practitioners who completed their graduate degree over five years ago
Sources:https://www.ccpa-accp.ca/profession-and-regulation/https://cpa.ca/accreditation/ptlicensingrequirements/https://www.cpca-rpc.ca/regulatory-colleges~.aspxhttps://cpa.ca/public/whatisapsychologist/regulatorybodies/https://cpa.ca/public/whatisapsychologist/ptassociations/https://www.socialworknorth.ca/
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