Psychologist, Therapist, Social Worker, or Psychiatrist? Here's Who Does What

If you're looking for mental health support, you may feel confused by all the different titles.

Should you see a psychiatrist? A psychologist? A therapist? A social worker?

The answer depends on what kind of help you are looking for.

Some mental health professionals can prescribe medication. Some can diagnose mental health conditions. Some focus mainly on therapy.

This guide explains the differences in simple terms.

Quick Comparison

Professional	Can Provide Therapy?	Can Diagnose?	Can Prescribe Medication?
Psychiatrist	Sometimes	Yes	Yes
Psychologist	Yes	Yes	No
Social Worker	Yes	No	No
Psychotherapist	Yes	No	No

What Is a Psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health. Because psychiatrists are doctors, they can:

• Diagnose mental health conditions

• Prescribe medication

• Order medical tests

• Monitor how medications are working

Many psychiatrists focus mainly on medication management, although some also provide therapy.

You May Want to See a Psychiatrist If:

• You are interested in medication

• Your symptoms are severe

• Previous treatments have not helped

Cost

In Ontario, psychiatrist appointments are usually covered by OHIP when accessed through the public healthcare system.

What Is a Psychologist?

A psychologist is a mental health professional with advanced training in assessment, diagnosis, and therapy.

Psychologists can:

• Diagnose mental health conditions

• Provide therapy

• Complete psychological assessments

• Administer and interpret psychological tests

Psychologists cannot prescribe medication in Ontario.

You May Want to See a Psychologist If:

• You are looking for therapy

• You want a formal diagnosis

• You need an ADHD assessment

• You need a psychological assessment

• You want treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, or other mental health concerns

• You want someone who had 10+ years of training

  
  

Cost

In Ontario, therapy with a psychologist often ranges from about $225 to $300+ per session.

Assessment fees vary depending on the type of assessment being completed.

What Is a Social Worker?

Many people are surprised to learn that social workers can provide therapy.

Registered Social Workers (RSWs, typically with a master's degree - MSWs) are trained mental health professionals who work in hospitals, schools, community agencies, and private practice settings.

Social workers can:

• Provide therapy

• Help with anxiety, depression, and stress

• Support people through life changes

• Help people access community resources

You May Want to See a Social Worker If:

• You are looking for therapy

• You want support for stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship concerns

• You are looking for a lower-cost

Cost

Therapy with a social worker often ranges from about $150 to $250+ per session.

What Is a Psychotherapist (Therapist)?

A psychotherapist is a regulated mental health professional trained to provide therapy. In Ontario, Registered Psychotherapists (RPs) are regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.

Psychotherapists can:

• Provide therapy

• Help people manage emotions

• Teach coping skills

• Support people through life challenges

Psychotherapists do not typically provide formal psychological assessments.

You May Want to See a Psychotherapist If:

• You are looking for therapy

• You are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship concerns

• You want support learning coping skills

• You are looking for a lower-cost

Cost

Therapy with a psychotherapist often ranges from about $130 to $225+ per session.

Which Mental Health Professional Is Best?

Many people assume that one type of professional is better than another.

In reality, the best choice depends on your needs.

For example:

• If you want medication, a psychiatrist may be the right fit.

• If you need a diagnosis or assessment, or if you have more of a severe or complex presentation, a psychologist may be the right fit.

• If you are looking for therapy, a psychologist, social worker, or psychotherapist may all be good options.

In many cases, the most important factor is finding a clinician who has experience treating your concerns and is someone you feel comfortable talking to.

Don't Forget to Check Your Insurance Coverage

Your insurance coverage may play a big role in deciding which mental health professional you see.

Many workplace benefit plans cover services provided by psychologists, social workers, and registered psychotherapists. However, every plan is different.

For example, one insurance plan may only cover psychologists, while another may cover psychologists, social workers, and psychotherapists.

Before booking an appointment, check:

• Which professionals are covered by your plan

• How much money is available each year

• Whether different professionals have separate coverage amounts

A quick call to your insurance company can help you understand your coverage and avoid unexpected costs.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a mental health professional can feel overwhelming, especially when several professionals appear to offer similar services. The good news is that there is no single "best" choice for everyone.

The right professional depends on what kind of help you need, what your insurance covers, and who feels like the right fit for you. If you're not sure where to start, many clinics offer a consultation to help you find the type of support that best matches your needs.

At One Psychology Clinic, we aim to find you the best clinician that fits your needs and wants. Feel free to reach out to us to get started.

Talia Vacca, one of the clinicians at One Psychology Clinic.