What is the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker and counsellor?

eCounselling editorial team

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose and prescribe medication. A psychologist has graduate training in assessment and therapy, and can often diagnose. A clinical social worker provides therapy with a focus on the person and their circumstances. Counsellors and psychotherapists provide talk therapy too.

Rules differ by province. In some provinces, "counsellor" is not a protected title, so it is sensible to ask about training and whether the person belongs to a regulatory body.

For many concerns, how well you connect with the therapist matters as much as their title.