
When choosing a mental health clinician in Ontario, some of your options include psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychotherapists. But which professional will work best for your therapy goals? This article compares these different types of mental health professionals so that you can make a more informed decision about your care.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists earn a doctor of medicine degree (MD) and then complete specialized residency training in psychiatry. They typically focus more on the biological aspects of mental illness and can provide diagnoses and prescriptions. While they can provide evidence-based psychological treatments, their expertise is typically in diagnosis and medication. They are regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.
Psychologists
Psychologists earn a doctor of philosophy degree (PhD) or a doctor of psychology degree (PsyD). They can assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions using evidence-based psychological treatments, but they are unable to prescribe medications at this time. They tend to approach mental health conditions from a cognitive and behavioural point of view rather than the biological point of view that psychiatrists tend to follow. They are regulated by the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario.
Psychotherapists
Psychotherapists can hold different levels of training but, at minimum, earn a master’s degree in such fields as psychology, counselling, or social work. They are unable to provide prescriptions for medication but really specialize in treating mental health conditions. Their approach to therapy heavily depends on their type of training and any specialization, but their specialized training in the cognitive and behavioural treatment of mental health conditions allows them the ability to adapt their treatment to the individual. Psychotherapists in Ontario are regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.
While all these professionals can offer psychotherapy, their education, training, and roles differ. Whether you’re interested in medication, exploring a diagnosis, or want to focus on treating your symptoms, having this information can help you determine which professional will be the most effective in helping you reach your therapy goals. You deserve to feel like yourself again, and making an informed decision about your care provider is a crucial first step along that journey.
