what does a psychologist do?

What Does a Psychologist Do?

In Ontario, psychologists are regulated health professionals governed by the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO). Psychologists specialize in understanding how people think, feel, behave, and relate to others. They are extensively trained in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and evidence‑based psychotherapy.

Psychologists help individuals, couples, families, and groups with concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, stress, life transitions, and other mental health challenges.

A defining feature of psychology is its strong grounding in scientific research. Psychologists are trained to evaluate and apply the best available evidence to treatment and to tailor therapy to each person’s unique history, strengths, and goals.

Psychologists in Ontario do not prescribe medication. Their role focuses on psychological assessment, diagnosis, and psychotherapy rather than medical treatment. You require a Psychologist to diagnosis a mental health disorder as others disciplines in the psychology field cannot diagnosis.

How Psychologists Differ From Other Mental Health Professionals

Understanding the differences between mental health disciplines can help you choose the right type of care for your needs.

Psychologist

• Graduate‑level training specifically in psychology
• Expertise in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and psychotherapy
• Strong emphasis on research‑based, evidence‑informed treatment
• Do not prescribe medication
• Regulated health professionals

Psychological Associate

• Master’s-level graduate training in psychology, plus 4 years of experience under supervision with a registered Psychologist
• Qualified to provide psychological assessment, diagnosis, and psychotherapy
• Deliver evidence-based, research-informed treatment
• Do not prescribe medication
• Regulated health professionals practicing within the same controlled act of psychotherapy as psychologists
• Differ from psychologists primarily in level of formal education (master’s vs. doctoral), while often bringing substantial clinical experience and specialized expertise

Social Worker (MSW / RSW)

• Regulated by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)
• Trained in counselling, psychotherapy, advocacy, and systems‑based support
• Provide psychotherapy within their scope of practice
• Often focus on social, relational, cultural, and environmental factors

Psychotherapist (Registered Psychotherapist / RP)

• Regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO)
• Minimum training generally includes a master’s‑level degree or equivalent education in psychotherapy, plus extensive supervised clinical experience
• Authorized to provide psychotherapy within a defined scope of practice
• Training emphasizes therapeutic relationships, clinical skills, and ethical practice

Clinical Therapist

• A non‑regulated, descriptive title in Ontario and not, on its own, a protected or licensed designation
• Training and qualifications can vary widely across settings
• At our practice, the title Clinical Therapist refers specifically to clinicians who are actively completing advanced education, supervised clinical hours, and registration requirements toward licensure with a regulated Ontario college (e.g., psychology, psychotherapy, or social work)
• All clinical therapists at our practice work under appropriate supervision and adhere to professional, ethical, and regulatory standards

Psychiatrist

• Medical doctors (MDs) regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO)
• Can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication
• Often focus on medical and pharmacological treatment
• May provide psychotherapy, though this is typically not the primary focus of care

Choosing the Right Fit

All mental health professionals play valuable roles. If you are unsure which type of professional is right for you, we are happy to help guide you toward the most appropriate care.

If you would like to learn more about our psychologists or book an appointment, please contact us.

Comparison of Mental Health Professionals in Ontario

At our practice, Clinical Therapist refers to clinicians who are actively completing advanced education and supervised clinical hours toward registration with a regulated Ontario college.