What does "Qualifying" mean for a Registered Psychotherapist?

When searching for a therapist in Ontario, you might come across the title Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) or RP (Qualifying). It’s a legitimate professional designation but it can be confusing if you’re not familiar with how psychotherapy is regulated in the province of Ontario.

Here’s what you need to know.

The Therapy Landscape in Ontario, Canada

In Ontario, several regulated mental health professionals are authorized to practice psychotherapy, each governed by its own college:

• Psychologists and Psychological Associates, regulated by the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO)
• Social Workers, regulated by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)
• Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying), regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO)

Each of these professions has its own educational and clinical training requirements, but all are legally authorized to provide psychotherapy under Ontario law.

Are Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying) legitimate?

Yes, RP (Qualifying) is a legitimate license status issued by the CRPO. These professionals:

• Have completed or are in the final stages of an intensive psychotherapy training program
• Are registered with the CRPO and accountable to its professional standards and Code of Ethics
• Must pass a licensing exam: the Canadian Professional Standard for Counselling and Psychotherapy (CPSCP), also known as the Registration Examination
• Practice under clinical supervision while completing at least 450 hours of direct client contact and 100 hours of clinical supervision

For more details, see CRPO’s official Registrant Requirements for RP (Qualifying).

Acronyms to Know:

• RP = Registered Psychotherapist
• RP(Qualifying) or sometimes RP(Q) = Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Will I be covered for a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) under my insurance?

If your insurance plan covers Registered Psychotherapists, it will almost certainly cover RP (Qualifying) professionals as well.

Here’s why:

• Insurance policies rarely distinguish between RP and RP(Q). If “Registered Psychotherapist” is mentioned in your benefits coverage, your sessions with an RP(Q) are likely reimbursable.
• In the rare case where your insurer requires full RP status, an RP(Q) can list their clinical supervisor’s name and credentials on the receipt, which will likely satisfy the insurer’s requirements.
• All RP(Qualifying)s are required to practice under supervision until they meet the clinical experience and exam requirements.

For a deeper dive on figuring our your insurance coverage, see our guide: How to find a therapist covered by insurance in Canada

What are the downsides of working with a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)?

It’s true that Qualifying Registered Psychotherapists have less experience in the therapy room (often the  video room nowadays) than fully registered RPs. But that doesn’t mean they’re ineffective—or less compassionate.

• Every therapist starts as an RP(Qualifying) if they’re working toward CRPO registration. Even seasoned professionals from related fields must complete this stage.
• Life experience, empathy, and presence matter just as much as hours logged. Finding the right fit is critical to success in therapy.
• Lower rates are a major advantage—Qualifying Registered Psychotherapists often offer more affordable session fees.
• Many have greater availability, meaning you may not have to wait weeks or months to begin therapy.

At First Session, we’ve seen hundreds of clients benefit from working with RP(Q)s. They’re often among our most motivated and engaged therapists.

A confusing title for a legitimate professional

The “Qualifying” label can be misleading. While it’s technically accurate, it often gives the impression that the therapist is a student or trainee—when in fact, they’ve already met several key requirements for professional practice.

The CRPO mandates that therapists in this category must use the full title “Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)” in all advertising and communications. While it’s intended for transparency, it can make it harder for new professionals to build trust.

At First Session, we believe in clarity and honesty—and in the potential of early-career therapists. That’s why we partner with many Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who provide high-quality care and earn strong client feedback.

Final thoughts

If you’re considering therapy with an RP(Qualifying), know this: you’re working with a regulated professional who is supported by supervision, committed to learning, and already offering evidence-based care. For many people, it’s an ideal blend of affordability, accessibility, and therapeutic skill.

When choosing a therapist, a strong therapeutic relationship matters more than titles.