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Psychiatry is a medical field of study covering the causes, identification, diagnoses and medicinal treatment of mental health disorders. Psychiatrists have a medical degree and are the only therapist designation covered in this guide that can prescribe medication.

Anywhere in Canada, a psychiatrist will need to be certified as a psychiatry specialist by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC), and they will need to register with the appropriate college at the provincial level.

Psychiatrist licensing and education in Ontario

Ontario psychiatrists require a medical degree and five years of Royal College-approved residency training. They must register with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.

Psychiatrist licensing and education in British Columbia

Ontario psychiatrists require a medical degree and five years of Royal College-approved residency training. They must register with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia.

Psychiatrist licensing and education in Alberta

Ontario psychiatrists require a medical degree and five years of Royal College-approved residency training. They must register with the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta.