Registered Social Workers in London

What is a Registered Social Worker?

A Registered Social Worker (RSW) in Ontario is a social worker who has completed a social work degree, such as a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or Master of Social Work (MSW), and is registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). RSWs are trained to consider mental health in the broader context of a person's relationships, environment, and life circumstances, and many practice therapy alongside case management, advocacy, and systems navigation. 

RSWs in London work with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationships, and life transitions. Some also specialize in supporting particular communities and populations, including neurodivergent people, LGBTQIA+ communities, BIPOC communities, people living with chronic illness, parents and caregivers, and newcomers, among others.  

First Session's London roster includes RSWs based locally as well as out-of-province RSWs licensed to see Ontario clients online, so you aren't limited to local options and can find someone who genuinely feels like the right fit. 

What to know about RSWs in London

In-person and online availability

London has a strong local network of Registered Social Workers offering in-person therapy, alongside many RSWs who work online. Neither format is automatically better for everyone. Some people prefer in-person therapy because they value being in the same physical space as their therapist, while others prefer the convenience and flexibility of online therapy.

RSW regulation in Ontario

RSW is a protected title in Ontario and is regulated by the OCSWSSW. Only individuals registered with the College can legally call themselves a Registered Social Worker. This is distinct from Registered Psychotherapist (RP), regulated by CRPO. Both are legitimate, regulated designations for talk therapy, but with different training backgrounds.

Cost and insurance

RSW sessions in London typically range from $100 to $220 CAD. RSW is one of the most commonly covered designations under Ontario extended health plans, making it a practical choice for many looking to use benefits. That said, coverage varies between plans, so always check yours to confirm the specifics. 

How to choose an RSW in London

Finding the right fit matters. Research consistently shows that the therapeutic relationship, how comfortable, understood, and supported you feel with your therapist, is one of the strongest predictors of positive therapy outcomes.

1. Look for experience that matches your needs. Review a therapist's areas of specialization, the concerns they work with, the populations they serve, and any relevant personal or professional experience.
2. Pay attention to their communication style. Some therapists are direct and practical, while others take a gentler, more reflective approach. Neither is inherently better, but one may resonate more with you.
3. Consider their therapeutic approach. Some therapists use structured, skills-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). Others take a more open-ended, relational, or somatic approach. Again, neither is superior, but one may align better with you.
4. Check the practical details. Look at availability, session format, location, language, fees, and whether your insurance covers the therapist's designation. First Session makes these details easy to review on each therapist's profile.
5. Book a free consultation. Every First Session therapist offers a free consultation, giving you a chance to see what working together might feel like before committing. Consider asking, "How do you typically work in the first few sessions?" "Have you worked with people in a situation like mine?" "What does progress usually look like?"