Psychologist vs Psychiatrist vs Social Worker vs Registered Psychotherapist: Which One Should You See in Ontario?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the mental health system, you’re not alone.
Many people don’t know the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, or psychotherapist — and it can make it hard to know where to start.
This guide breaks down the key differences and helps you choose the right professional based on your needs in Ontario, Canada.
What Is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a form of treatment that helps people address emotional and mental health challenges through conversation and evidence-based techniques.
Often called “talk therapy,” psychotherapy can be provided by Registered Psychotherapists, psychologists, social workers, and even psychiatrists.
Psychotherapy includes many types of therapy, such as:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing unhelpful thinking patterns
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Helps improve attachment and connection in relationships
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Helps process traumatic memories
Internal Family Systems (IFS or Parts Work): Supports healing by working with different “parts” of yourself
Mindfulness-based therapy: Supports grounding and present-moment awareness.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): Builds emotional regulation and coping skills.
Psychodynamic therapy: Explores how past experience affect your present.
These therapies can help with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and relationship issues.
What’s a Registered Psychotherapist?
A Registered Psychotherapist (RP) in Ontario is a regulated mental health professional licensed under the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).
Registered Psychotherapists are trained to provide psychotherapy and counselling, following professional standards and ethical guidelines.
Registered Psychotherapists often receive specialized training in specific therapy approaches—such as CBT, EMDR, IFS, DBT, EFT, mindfulness-based therapy, or psychodynamic therapy—so you can choose a therapist whose expertise best fits your needs.
What’s a Psychologist?
A psychologist is a trained mental health professional who provides psychotherapy as well as conducts psychological assessments.
Psychologists can work with individuals and couples and are especially helpful when you need a formal diagnosis or psychological testing.
For example, if you suspect you may have ADHD or a learning disability, a psychologist can provide the proper tests and assessments.
In Canada, psychologists cannot prescribe medication. Medication is prescribed by a family doctor or psychiatrist.
What’s a Psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health.
Psychiatrists can diagnose mental health conditions and manage medication treatment.
A psychiatrist may be best if you’re experiencing severe, unrelenting depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other complex mental health issues.
Some psychiatrists offer psychotherapy, but many focus mainly on medication management. For long-term talk therapy, a Registered Psychotherapist, social worker, or psychologist may be more suitable and cost-effective.
What’s a Social Worker?
A social worker is trained to support mental health and wellbeing with a focus on social systems and practical support.
Social workers often provide psychotherapy and they are a wealth of knowledge when it comes to helping connect you to community support resources such as housing support, employment resources, as well as family and school services.
If this guide has left you with questions or you’re ready to take the next step, book your free 15-minute consultation or email info@erinsaccomano.ca today.
At Erin Saccomano Psychotherapy, I offer a safe, supportive space to explore your needs and tailor treatment to you. Together, we’ll identify the right type of care and create a path forward that feels safe, grounded, and hopeful.