What is the difference between Social Worker, Therapist, Counsellor, and Psychotherapist?

These terms are often used interchangeably but may differ by level of education (college certificate, college diploma, university bachelor degree, university master degree) as well as through registration with a regulating college.

A Therapist or Counsellor may have a college certificate, college diploma, or university degree.

A Social Worker must have completed a Bachelor or Master of Social Work degree (BSW or MSW). A Registered Social Worker (RSW) is registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW).

A Psychotherapist must be registered in one of the following regulatory colleges:

• The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers

• The College of Nurses of Ontario

• The College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario

• The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario

• The College of Psychologists of Ontario

• The College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario

Note: I am a Social Worker (MSW) who is registered with the OCSWSSW which qualifies me as a Psychotherapist.

How many counselling sessions will I need?

The number of counselling sessions will be based on your individual circumstances and needs. It is something that will be discussed and agreed upon together. You are a collaborative member in determining and reevaluating the plan as needed.

Will my counselling sessions be confidential?

Absolutely. Counselling offers an opportunity for you to share in a safe space. Confidentiality will be reviewed during your first session. There are limitations to confidentiality which include a disclosure of risk of harm to yourself or others. In these cases, we have a duty to report.

How do I know if I need counselling?

Counselling sessions focus on your self-development. They can help you reflect on past experiences and relationships to gain insight. You may seek counselling to explore thoughts and feelings, to develop strategies during a situational crisis, or for support following a loss/life change. The question to consider is ‘am I okay with the way things are?’ If the answer is no, then counselling can help you sort through those feelings.

What happens in a counselling session?

Your counsellor will listen and reflect with you in a safe environment. You will have the opportunity to guide the topic of conversation (work, home, trauma, identity). It can be informal if preferred or more structured as needed.

What issues can counselling help with?

• anxiety

• workplace issues

• relationship issues

• depression

• low self-esteem and lack of confidence

• trauma

• disordered eating

• phobias and fears

• abuse

• bereavement/grief/loss.

How do I know which treatment modality I need?

Your therapist will assess your needs during your first appointment and share their recommendations. You will have an opportunity to discuss your options and make a plan. I am trained in several types of therapy and can integrate different approaches into your sessions.

How do I know which counsellor is right for me?

It is important that you work with a counsellor that you feel you can trust. You will have an opportunity to begin to explore this during your phone consultation, and again during your first session. If you or your therapist do not feel it is a good fit, they will offer to refer you to another therapist based on your impressions.

What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment modality that balances the strategies of acceptance and change . It was developed by psychologist Dr. Marsha M. Linehan and includes 5 DBT Skills modules: Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Skills, Distress Tolerance, and Walking the Middle Path.

What is Cognitive Behaviour therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment modality that is based on Dr. Aaron T. Beck’s Cognitive Model. In CBT, the focus is on increasing awareness of distressing thoughts and challenging them. Individuals are supported in problem solving and developing skills. They are empowered to continue to use these skills outside of therapy.