Confused about the difference between a psychologist, counsellor, or therapist? Learn how psychologists differ in training, diagnosis, and therapy, and why supervised counselling ensures professional, evidence-based care in Ontario.
When seeking support for mental health or emotional challenges, it’s important to understand the difference between a psychologist, a counsellor, and a therapist. Knowing who does what can help you make the best choice for your needs.
What is a Psychologist?
Psychologists usually have more extensive education and training than therapists, counsellors, or psychotherapists. Most psychologists, including Dr. Jennifer Barbera, hold a PhD and complete around 10 years of university education, followed by rigorous licensing exams before providing psychological services.
According to Healthdirect.gov.au, psychologists are experts in human behaviour—they study how people think, feel, and act. Unlike counsellors or therapists, psychologists can provide formal diagnoses, which is a controlled act only doctors or regulated professionals can perform.
In Ontario, psychologists are regulated by the College of Psychologists & Behaviour Analysts of Ontario, ensuring a high standard of care that protects the public. Counsellors and therapists are not always regulated.
Psychologists vs Counsellors or Therapists
The training and qualifications of counsellors and therapists can vary. Most have at least a master’s degree in psychology, counselling, or social work. However, the titles “counsellor” and “therapist” are not regulated under the Health Professions Act, meaning standards may differ.
When you work with a clinician under the supervision of a psychologist like Dr. Barbera PhD, you can be confident that your therapy is informed by advanced education and professional standards. Dr. Barbera reviews all intakes for supervised services and helps design therapy plans to ensure they align with our training and areas of competency.
Psychologists vs Psychiatrists
Psychologists and psychiatrists both work with mental and emotional health, but their training and treatment approaches differ. Psychiatrists have a medical degree followed by specialized training in mental health and typically prescribe medication for psychological conditions. Their services are covered by OHIP, but wait times can be long.
Psychologists, on the other hand, have graduate training in psychology and focus on assessment, diagnosis, and therapy. They do not prescribe medication, but they are trained to use Psychotherapy to help clients understand their difficulties, develop coping strategies, and manage emotional or behavioural challenges. Psychologists may also coordinate care with other healthcare providers, such as physicians or occupational therapists.
Psychologists are uniquely qualified to administer specialized psychological tests that assess intelligence, personality, achievement, and mental or emotional disorders.
Why Choose a Psychologist-Supervised Clinician?
Working with a counsellor or therapist under the supervision of a psychologist like Dr. Barbera PhD provides:
This approach combines the personal support of counselling with the rigour of psychological practice, giving you confidence in the quality of care.
Learn more about Dr. Jennifer Barbera, C. Psych, and her Hamilton Psychology practice. All intakes for supervised services are directly reviewed by Dr. Barbera, ensuring experienced, personalized support.
Contact us with questions or to set up an appointment.
