Counsellor vs. Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist

Written By Ratiba Yasin

When seeking mental health support, it’s not always clear who to see — especially when you hear so many titles: counsellor, psychologist, psychiatrist.

While all support emotional wellbeing, their qualifications, approaches, and areas of expertise differ. Here’s a breakdown of each, specific to British Columbia (BC), to help you make an informed choice.

What Is a Counsellor (RCC or CCC)?

In BC: Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) are regulated by the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). They hold a Master’s degree in counselling psychology (or a related field) and meet rigorous clinical and ethical standards.

What They Do:

  • Provide talk therapy for individuals, couples, and families

  • Address concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions

  • Use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, EFT, SFBT, and mindfulness

  • Cannot prescribe medication

You might see a counsellor for:

  • Anxiety, depression, or burnout

  • Relationship or family concerns

  • Grief, trauma, or life changes

  • Self-esteem, boundaries, or identity work

💡 Some counsellors may also be Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC), registered with the CCPA, and able to practice in BC.

What Is a Psychologist?

In BC: Registered Psychologists are regulated by the College of Psychologists of BC (CPBC). They hold a Doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology, complete extensive training, and pass licensing exams.

What They Do:

  • Assess, diagnose, and treat psychological disorders

  • Provide therapy using evidence-based methods

  • Offer specialized services like ADHD, psychoeducational, and neuropsychological assessments

  • Cannot prescribe medication

You might see a psychologist for:

  • Formal mental health diagnoses

  • ADHD or learning disability assessments

  • Therapy for complex conditions like PTSD, OCD, or eating disorders

What Is a Psychiatrist?

In BC: Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs) regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC and certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in psychiatry.

What They Do:

  • Diagnose and treat mental health disorders

  • Provide psychotherapy

  • Prescribe and manage psychiatric medication

You might see a psychiatrist for:

  • Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or severe depression

  • Medication management

  • Complex or treatment-resistant conditions

Who Should You See?

Choose a Counsellor (RCC/CCC) if:

  • You want talk therapy for life challenges, stress, grief, or relationships

Choose a Psychologist if:

  • You need a diagnosis or formal assessment

  • You want therapy for complex or long-term concerns

Choose a Psychiatrist if:

  • You need medical evaluation and/or psychiatric medication

  • You have severe or treatment-resistant mental health conditions

Collaboration Is Common in BC

Mental health professionals often work together. For example:

  • A counsellor may provide ongoing therapy while a psychiatrist manages medication

  • A psychologist may conduct an assessment that informs a counsellor’s treatment plan

Final Thoughts

Understanding the differences between a counsellor, psychologist, and psychiatrist can help you choose the right support for your needs.

At The Healing Cove, I offer evidence-based, compassionate counselling to help clients navigate life’s challenges. If I’m not the right fit, I can help connect you with a psychologist or psychiatrist who is.

📍 Based in Vancouver, BC — offering in-person and virtual sessions.

Ratiba Yasin
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