Counsellor or Psychologist: What’s the difference?

Counsellor, psychologist, social worker...these terms are often used interchangeably with everyone in the same “therapy” bucket. In fact, each title comes with a different level of education and experience. As part of connecting with different therapists to find the right fit for you, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what each position can offer to help you on your journey. 

We are breaking down three of the most commonly used titles and highlighting what makes them stand apart. 

Psychologist

In Alberta, a psychologist is an individual who has completed, at a minimum:

  • a graduate degree in the field of psychology 

  • has completed the rigorous steps of having academic credentials reviewed by the College of Alberta Psychologists; and, 

  • has completed a minimum of 1,600 hours of post graduate, supervised work by a registered psychologist

 Only when those requirements are met will a psychologist be granted a licence to practice under that title and they must maintain that licensure with the College of Psychologists for the duration of their career.  

There are also different types of psychologists:

  • Provisional psychologist: has completed the required educational training and is in the process of meeting the experience requirements for a full license

  • Clinical psychologist: an expert or specialist in the branch of psychology concerned with the assessment and treatment of mental illness and psychological problems. These individuals are trained and highly skilled in the administration, interpretation, diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems.

  • Counselling psychologist: This is both a general practice and specialty in professional psychology, focusing on how people function both personally and in their relationships at all ages. These individuals help people with physical, emotional and mental health issues to improve their sense of well-being, alleviate feelings of distress and resolve crises. Some (not all) counselling psychologists are also trained to provide assessment, diagnosis and treatment of more severe psychological symptoms.  

Pro-tip: The field of psychology is broad and extensive. Psychologists are required by their regulatory body to only treat individuals within their specific scope of practice. If someone is not extensively trained in formal assessment and diagnosis of learning disabilities, they cannot provide this service without supervision and oversight. 

You have a right to ask any psychologist you might work with what their scope of practice is, their abilities and any clarifying questions. 

At JBA, Jennifer Berard and Chelsea Wrightson (starting in January 2022) are both Counselling Psychologists. 

Social Worker

In Alberta, social work is a broad field and social work positions can be held by individuals who possess differing levels of education, from a diploma to a doctorate. They are limited in what psycho-social interventions they can provide based on their education/experience as determined by their regulatory body. 

Anyone referring to themselves as a therapist and/or mental health clinician who is a registered member of the College of Social Work must possess, at minimum, a graduate degree and be approved through their college to provide this level of intervention. 

Pro-tip: Do not assume that the title “Registered Social Worker” means a high level of post secondary education or skill to provide therapeutic counselling/interventions. This term is broad. Ask questions and for clarification when interviewing a potential therapist.

At JBA, Leigh-Ann Augustyn is a Master’s-level registered social worker. 

 

Counsellor

A counsellor is a generic term for someone who provides support and counsel for a variety of emotional needs. But it is just that…generic. 

In Alberta, this is not a protected term and essentially means anyone can call themselves a “counsellor.” There is no guarantee the individual is a regulated or licensed professional, though many are.  

If you are booking an appointment with an individual who refers to themselves as a counsellor, you have a right to (and should!) inquire about their level of education, if their work is overseen by a regulatory body or college and what their experience is. 

Pro-tip: Most benefit plans will not cover an individual who is not regulated by a professional body. 

To book an appointment with any member of the JBA team, email admin@jenniferberard.com.