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Understanding Mental Health Professionals in Ontario: Who Does What?

By Eugenia "Jenna" Fibiger, Clinical Therapist & Psychometrist at CBM

Published April 2026

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to figure out which mental health professional to see, you’re not alone. Ontario’s healthcare landscape offers a diverse range of professionals that each bring a unique set of skills to the table. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself, a loved one, or simply confused about the mental health field, this guide aims to clarify your confusion so you can make the best choice for your needs. Let’s unpack the differences between these professionals and explore what services they can provide:

Psychiatrist (MD)

Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in mental health. They diagnose and treat mental illnesses and can prescribe medication. If your concerns revolve around severe depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other complex psychiatric conditions, a psychiatrist is often the go-to. Psychiatrists may also offer psychotherapy but are primarily trained to provide medical treatment and medication management for complex mental health disorders. In Ontario, Psychiatric services are covered by OHIP. Psychiatrists are registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

For more information: https://www.cpso.on.ca/Public/Public-Information

Psychologist (R. Psych., or C. Psych.)

Psychologists hold a masters or doctoral degree in psychology and are experts in assessment, diagnosis, and therapy for emotional and behavioural challenges. They don’t prescribe medication but use evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or mindfulness approaches. Many psychologists also conduct psychological testing to clarify the presence of disorders such as anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, autism, learning disabilities and many more to better understand your mental health needs. Psychologists are members of the College of Psychologists and Behavioural Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO).

For more information: https://cpbao.ca/public/

Psychological Associate (C. Psych. Assoc)

Psychological Associates are independently registered regulated mental health professionals with a master’s degree in psychology who are required to meet the same rigorous academic and practice standards as registered psychologists. Psychological Associates, like doctoral psychologists, provide assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for behavioral and mental health conditions and are also required to pass professional examinations before qualifying to practice independently. The difference in titles reflect the different paths to registration. Psychological associates complete four years of Post Masters supervised practice instead of a doctoral degree. Psychological Associates are members of the College of Psychologists and Behavioural Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO).

For more information: https://cpbao.ca/public/

Psychometrist (B.A., BSc., M.A., MSc.)

Psychometrists specialize in administering and scoring psychological tests under the supervision of a psychologist or psychological associate. They often have a bachelor’s degree in psychology or statistics or a master’s degree in psychology or psychometry and receive training in psychological assessment, measurement, statistics, and research methods. They typically work in hospitals, school boards and private psychology clinics. They don’t diagnose or counsel but play an essential role in gathering accurate data to help psychologists understand cognitive abilities, personality traits, or neuropsychological functioning. They are often the skilled technicians that you meet with during an assessment session.

Registered Social Worker (BSW, RSW)

Registered or Clinical Social workers hold either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work and are qualified professionals who assess and treat emotional and psych-social problems affecting mental health. Registered Social Workers typically work in mental health services, including hospitals, schools, medical and psychology clinics, child welfare, substance abuse counseling, and community mental health organizations, where they provide counselling and psychotherapy. These individuals are registered with and regulated by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) to ensure they meet the proper educational and professional standards.

For more information: https://www.ocswssw.org/public/about-rsws-and-rssws/

Psychotherapist (RP or RP Qualifying)

Psychotherapists are regulated health professionals who provide psychotherapy - defined as the treatment of cognitive, emotional, and behavioural disorders to improve functioning - to the public. The title of psychotherapist can be used by a number of different professionals including psychologists, social workers, and clinical counsellors who practice various therapeutic modalities. Psychotherapists help individuals work through emotional challenges, trauma, or a variety of mental health conditions using talk therapy. They are normally trained in certain psychotherapy techniques. In Ontario, becoming a registered psychotherapist requires specific training and registration with a regulatory body known as The College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

For more information: https://crpo.ca/about-us/

Occupational Therapist (OT Reg.)

Occupational therapists (OTs) take a unique approach, focusing on improving your ability to perform daily activities whether at work, home, or in social settings. For example, if anxiety or depression disrupts your routine or job performance, OTs develop strategies to cope and regain independence. They bring a practical, activity-based lens to mental health care, blending physical and psychological support. They are also able to provide talk therapy to clients when necessary. They are regulated by the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario (COTO) to ensure they are qualified, meet professional standards, and act ethically.

For more information: https://www.coto.org/registrants/ot-scope-of-practice/

Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC)

Canadian Certified Counsellors typically hold a master’s degree in counselling psychology or a similar field and are trained to provide counselling and/or psychotherapy for a wide range of issues, from anxiety and depression to relationship challenges. They often use talk therapy techniques that can be brief and goal-oriented. Clinical counsellors often focus on wellness, relationships, career, personal growth, and addressing everyday issues, while psychotherapists typically work on deep emotional patterns, traumas, or diagnosable mental health conditions. Canadian Certified Counsellors are registered with The Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).

For more information: https://www.ccpa-accp.ca/certification/

Marriage and Family Counsellor (RMFT)

These specialists focus on relationships (i.e. partner dynamics, family communication, parenting conflicts, and more). They hold advanced training in systemic therapies that look at how individuals influence and are influenced by their family systems. If you’re struggling with couple issues, divorce, or family stress, marriage and family counsellors provide tailored support to improve understanding and connection. These individuals are often registered with and regulated by the Canadian Association for Couple and Family Therapy (CAMFT).

For more information: https://camft.ca/What-is-a-RMFT

Spiritual Counsellor

Spiritual counselors blend mental health support with spiritual or religious perspectives. They’re ideal for those wanting therapy that respects and integrates faith, spirituality, or existential questions. While they may not hold regulated licenses like psychologists or psychotherapists, they may be certified in spiritual counseling or pastoral care. Many have studied theology. Their work often explores meaning, purpose, and healing beyond traditional clinical methods.

Typical Scope of Practice by Mental Health Profession

It can feel like an alphabet soup of titles and certifications, but understanding these roles can help you navigate the mental health landscape more confidently. Sometimes a team of professionals work together in a multi-disciplinary format (e.g., your psychiatrist manages medications while your social worker offers counselling and your OT supports daily functioning) to provide the best mental health care for your situation.

The best approach? Start by identifying your primary concerns and preferences, then explore which specialist fits best.

Questions?

If you have questions at any point, please contact:

📞 905-492-1152
📧 admin@cbmpsychologicalservices.com

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- Complete our Appointment Request Form
- Visit our Meet the Team, What to Expect and Contact Us pages

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