In psychotherapy, what is the difference between a Psychotherapist, Social worker, and Psychologist? 

Six professions are authorized to provide psychotherapy in Ontario: Psychologists, Registered Psychotherapists, Social workers/Social Service Workers, Psychiatrists, Occupational Therapists, and Nurses.

Social workers and Social service workers are registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and help clients with mental health issues by utilizing the holistic biopsychosocial approach to the assessment and treatment of their clients` psychological, behavioural, social, and environmental issues. These services are covered by most insurance plans.

Registered psychotherapists are registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and usually have educational backgrounds in psychology or faith-based spiritual counseling. Their services are covered by some insurance plans.

Occupational Therapists help people to resume or maintain participation in their jobs, social activities, getting around, caring for themselves, and much more. OTs also help children with Autism spectrum, behavioural and learning problems, traumatic brain injuries, etc.

Psychologists are registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO) and provide assessment, diagnosis, and psychological treatment of mental disorders. Their services are covered by insurance plans. 

Psychiatrists are medical doctors. They provide assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological treatment (prescribe medications) for mental disorders. They usually don’t provide psychotherapy. If they believe a patient may benefit from psychotherapy in addition to, or instead of, medications they refer them to psychotherapy. Service is covered by OHIP.

Nurse psychotherapists undertake appropriate training in psychotherapy in addition to their Nurse degrees. They are covered by some insurance plans.