Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Registered Social Worker and a Registered Psychotherapist?
When it comes to providing counselling, both Social Workers and Registered Psychotherapists are able to provide this service.
Psychotherapists or a “Registered Psychotherapist” (RP) is one who is registered and in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and who may use the title of psychotherapist or registered psychotherapist – or any abbreviation of these terms. They are trained and licensed to provide psychotherapy in Ontario.
Registered Social Workers (RSW) provide psychotherapy and are registered and in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). An RSW may also hold their master’s degree in social work (MSW).
Psychotherapy is essentially a talk-based therapy to help improve one’s mental health and well-being. Psychotherapy is now a controlled act – able to be performed only by a limited handful of regulated health professionals, including Social Workers, Registered Psychotherapists, Psychologists, Medical Doctors, Nurses, and Occupational Therapists.
Please note that each Therapist will have their own modality, expertise or specialty within the therapy they provide. Through our free consultation call we can help answer any questions you may have and guide you in choosing the therapist that fits your needs.
Can I get a diagnosis here?
Social workers and psychotherapists are not able to diagnose mental health conditions, although we can, and at times do, collaborate with your primary care providers or make referrals for diagnostic clarification. We are able to provide assessment and begin treating symptoms, and we can refer you to a diagnosing professional if that is needed.
In Ontario, only Psychologists and Medical Doctors (including Psychiatrists) are able to provide a diagnosis.
Psychologists often conduct psycho-educational assessments or other assessments that may result in a diagnosis, and at times they may provide treatment as well (although not always). They do not write prescriptions for medication.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors that can offer diagnosis, as well as medication management if needed. Your family doctor or General Practitioner may be able to provide diagnosis and medication, and we often collaborate with these professionals to offer some preliminary assessments, or they may refer you to psychiatry as it is a specialization.
Do you offer a free consultation call?
Yes, we do offer a free 15-20 minute consultation call with one of our Intake Coordinators. This call will allow our Intake Coordinators to answer any questions you may have about our services and they will be able to match you with a therapist from our team based on your specific needs and concerns.
Do you offer direct billing?
What can I expect at my first session?
Once you decide to work with us, we will conduct our Initial Assessments. For children 13 and under, we start with meeting with parents first for a full parent intake session. This 50 minute session allows parents and their child’s therapist to meet, and for the therapist to complete a detailed intake assessment. A second session with your child will take place after this is completed.
What if I do not find my therapist is the right fit for me/for my child?
Your mental health and well-being are very important to us, and finding the right therapist can make a significant difference in your therapeutic journey. If you feel that your therapist is not the right fit after your first few sessions, please let us know. We would be happy to discuss with you what is not working for you or your child, and we can explore with you other options of care within our team.
