What’s the Difference Between a Psychologist and a Counsellor in Calgary?
If you’re considering therapy, you might be wondering whether you should see a psychologist or a counsellor. These terms are often used interchangeably, but there are important differences between the two professions, particularly when it comes to training, regulation, and the types of services they provide. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about which professional is the best fit for your needs. In this article, we’ll explore what sets psychologists and counsellors apart, what they have in common, and how to decide which option may be right for you.
What Is a Psychologist?
A psychologist is a mental health professional with advanced training in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions and human behaviour. Psychologists are qualified to provide evidence-based therapy and formal psychological assessments, which can help identify and diagnose concerns such as anxiety disorders, depression, trauma-related disorders, ADHD, and other mental health conditions.¹
In Alberta, psychologists are regulated by the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP)² which sets standards for education, competence, ethics, and professional practice. To become a Registered Psychologist in Alberta, individuals must complete graduate-level education in psychology, undertake supervised clinical experience, meet registration requirements, and participate in ongoing professional development to maintain their registration
To become a registered psychologist in Alberta, a person must:
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in psychology
- Gain supervised clinical experience
- Pass written and oral examinations to demonstrate their knowledge and competence
- Commit to ongoing professional development to maintain registration
Because of this training, psychologists are qualified to provide both therapy and formal psychological assessments. Assessments can be useful in diagnosing conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, trauma-related disorders, ADHD, learning difficulties, and more.
In therapy, psychologists use evidence-based approaches, such as:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
Psychologists are trained to work with a wide range of mental health concerns and are qualified to provide psychological assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based therapy. Some psychologists have additional expertise in treating complex or long-standing conditions, such as trauma, OCD, and adult ADHD.
What Is a Counsellor?
At the time of writing, counselling therapists are in the process of becoming a regulated profession in Alberta, but the title “Registered Psychologist” remains protected under the College of Alberta Psychologists.³ During this transition, many counsellors continue to practise under voluntary professional associations that maintain their own standards of ethics and practice.⁴
Counsellors come from a variety of educational backgrounds. Many hold master’s degrees in counselling, social work, or a related field, while others may have diplomas or other qualifications depending on their training and professional background.
Counsellors can provide valuable support for people who are experiencing challenges such as:
- Relationship issues
- Stress at work or school
- Life transitions
- Grief and loss
- Personal growth and self-esteem concerns
Many counsellors use evidence-based therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or person-centred therapy. The services they provide may vary depending on their education, training, experience, and professional designation. Unlike Registered Psychologists, counsellors in Alberta do not typically provide formal psychological assessments or psychological diagnoses as part of their professional role.
Key Differences Between a Psychologist and a Counsellor
Although both psychologists and counsellors aim to support mental health and well-being, there are some clear distinctions between the two:
Education and Training
- Psychologists complete graduate-level degrees (Master’s or PhD) in psychology, plus extensive supervised clinical training.
- Counsellors may hold graduate degrees, undergraduate degrees, or diplomas in counselling,social work, or related fields.
Regulation
- Counsellors are not provincially regulated, though many choose to register with professional associations.
- Psychologists in Alberta are regulated by the College of Alberta Psychologists, ensuring consistent professional standards.
Assessments and Diagnosis
- Psychologists can conduct psychological assessments and provide formal diagnoses, including ADHD assessments for adults. Many people seek this when they want clarity and evidence-based recommendations (see ADHD Assessment Calgary).
- Counsellors typically do not conduct assessments or diagnose mental health conditions.
Types of Concerns
- Psychologists are often sought for more complex or clinical concerns (e.g., trauma, PTSD, OCD, ADHD). For example, adults seeking clarity around attention, focus, or emotional regulation may benefit from a psychologist’s ability to assess and diagnose ADHD (see What Is ADHD? A Clear Guide for Adults in Calgary).
- Counsellors often focus on life challenges, relationship issues, and coping strategies.
What Do They Have in Common?
Despite these differences, psychologists and counsellors share important similarities:
- Both provide a supportive, confidential space to talk about your concerns
- Both can help you develop coping strategies and new perspectives
- Both aim to improve your well-being and quality of life
- Both may use evidence-based therapeutic approaches
The quality of the therapeutic relationship – how well you connect with your therapist – is one of the strongest predictors of positive outcomes, regardless of professional title.⁵
Should I See a Psychologist or a Counsellor in Calgary?
The choice between a psychologist and a counsellor depends on your needs and preferences.
You might consider a psychologist if:
- You want a formal assessment or diagnosis
- You are experiencing complex mental health concerns, such as trauma, OCD, or severe anxiety. Some evidence-based treatments, such as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD, are typically provided by psychologists with specialised training.
- You want reassurance that your therapist is regulated by a governing body with high professional standards
You might consider a counsellor if:
- You are looking for support with everyday stressors, relationship challenges, or personal growth
- You feel comfortable with their level of training and experience
- You connect with them personally and trust their approach
If you’re considering online therapy options for either assessment or treatment, learn more about how virtual sessions work and may fit your needs.
Why Work With a Psychologist at Clear Minds Psychology in Calgary?
As a Registered Psychologist, I provide therapy and assessment services for adults and seniors in Calgary and Alberta. I work with adults and seniors experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, ADHD, grief, stress, and life transitions and offer evidence-based therapies, including CBT, ACT, ART, EMDR, and ERP.
My approach is compassionate and collaborative. I believe that every person has the capacity to grow, heal, and build a meaningful life. Whether you’re struggling with a mental health condition or facing a difficult life situation, therapy provides a safe, supportive space to move forward with clarity and confidence.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Between a Psychologist And a Counsellor
Both psychologists and counsellors can play an important role in supporting mental health. The key is finding the right professional for your unique situation and building a therapeutic relationship where you feel understood and supported.
If you’re considering therapy in Calgary and would like to explore whether working with a psychologist is the right step for you, I invite you to reach out. At Clear Minds Psychology, I offer a free consultation to answer your questions and help you determine the best path forward.
FAQ: Psychologists vs. Counsellors in Calgary
Can a counsellor diagnose mental health conditions?
Counsellors in Alberta provide valuable therapeutic support for stress, life transitions, and emotional challenges, but they are typically not licensed to diagnose mental health disorders. They focus on coping strategies, guidance, and personal growth. Psychologists, however, are trained to diagnose and treat clinical conditions like anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, or OCD using evidence-based therapies.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist in Calgary?
No, a physician’s referral is not required to see a psychologist. However, some insurance providers may ask for one, so it’s best to check your coverage.
Is therapy with a psychologist covered by insurance?
Many extended health benefit plans cover sessions with a registered psychologist. Coverage amounts vary by provider, so review your plan details to confirm.
Can I see a psychologist online in Calgary?
Yes. At Clear Minds Psychology, sessions are offered both in-person at the Kensington office and online across Alberta through secure video.
Can both psychologists and counsellors provide therapy?
Yes, both psychologists and counsellors provide therapy, but their scope and training differ. Psychologists are trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders and can use specialized assessments, therapy techniques, and research-based interventions. Counsellors focus on offering support, guidance, and coping strategies for emotional struggles, stress, and life transitions. While counsellors provide valuable therapeutic support for many challenges, psychologists can address more complex or clinical conditions. Choosing between a psychologist or counsellor depends on your needs. If you require a formal diagnosis or clinical treatment, a psychologist may be best.
How do I choose between a psychologist and a counsellor?
Choosing between a psychologist and a counsellor depends on your individual needs and the type of support you’re looking for. Psychologists are trained to assess and treat a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based approaches, and may be a good fit if you’re seeking treatment for concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or OCD, or if you require a psychological assessment. Counsellors can provide valuable support for life transitions, stress management, relationship concerns, and personal growth, and many also help clients with common mental health challenges. Both psychologists and counsellors offer effective therapeutic support, although their training, scope of practice, and regulatory requirements may differ.
Are the qualifications different for psychologists and counsellors?
Yes, the qualifications and training pathways for psychologists and counsellors are different. Psychologists typically complete a graduate degree in psychology (such as a master’s or doctorate), undertake supervised clinical training, and are registered with a regulatory college. They are qualified to provide psychological assessment and evidence-based treatment for a wide range of mental health concerns.
Counsellors come from a variety of educational backgrounds, often holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree in counselling, social work, or a related field. Many have specialized training in psychotherapy and provide support for concerns such as stress, relationships, life transitions, and emotional well-being. Depending on their credentials and where they practise, some counsellors also provide therapy for mental health conditions.
Both psychologists and counsellors play important roles in supporting mental health. The right choice depends on your goals, the type of support you’re seeking, and whether you require services such as psychological assessment or treatment from a regulated psychologist.
References
1 Canadian Psychological Association. What is a Psychologist?
2 College of Alberta Psychologists. About Registered Psychologists and Regulation in Alberta.
3 College of Alberta Psychologists. Regulatory Pathway for Counselling Therapists under the College of Alberta Psychologists (March 15, 2024).
4 Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Profession & Regulation
5 Flückiger, C., Del Re, A. C., Wampold, B. E., & Horvath, A. O. (2018). The alliance in adult psychotherapy: A meta-analytic synthesis. Psychotherapy, 55(4), 316–340.
About the Author
Michelle Fox is a Registered Psychologist and the owner of Clear Minds Psychology Services in Calgary. With over 30 years of experience in mental health care, she began her career as a mental health nurse in the UK before becoming a psychologist in Alberta.
Michelle works with adults and seniors, providing evidence-based therapy for anxiety, OCD, trauma, depression, adult ADHD, stress, burnout, grief, and life transitions. She integrates Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) to help clients build resilience and create meaningful, lasting change.
In addition to her clinical work, Michelle has contributed mental health articles to Alberta Senior Living Magazine, including Spring Mental Health Check-In: Managing Anxiety, SAD Transitions & Light Exposure, where she shares practical, evidence-based strategies to support emotional wellbeing.
Learn more about Registered Psychologist Michelle Fox and her approach to therapy.