The difference between Social Workers and Psychotherapists

There are many misconceptions when it comes to understanding the differences between these titles. Though there are indeed differences, individuals who possess these titles also have a lot in common. 

Individuals using titles such as Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and Registered Social Worker (RSW) may only use the titles if they are registered with their respective regulatory colleges. In Ontario, this would be the College of Registered Psychotherapists Ontario (CRPO), as well as the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). These colleges are in place to protect clients, and to ensure that the practitioner engages in ongoing professional development to maintain up-to-date knowledge in their field, while also adhering to a strict “Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice”.

The controlled act of psychotherapy is defined by The Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 (the “RHPA”) as: 

“Treating, by means of psychotherapy technique, delivered through a therapeutic relationship, an individual’s serious disorder of thought, cognition, mood, emotional regulation, perception or memory that may seriously impair the individual’s judgment, insight, behavior, communication or social functioning.”

Psychotherapy is what is known as a “controlled act”, and has been since 2007. This means that the term ‘Psychotherapist’ may only be used by regulated health professionals. The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers is considered among the said ‘regulated health professionals’. 

So, what is the difference? Although both RP’s and RSW’s both aim to help individuals, couples and families achieve their treatment goals, there are minor differences. 

Social Work is considered a broad profession. This type of professional may take on different roles including research, clinical treatment or case management. A Registered Social Worker is concerned with helping individuals, families, groups and communities to enhance their individual and collective well-being. They aim to help people develop their skills and abilities to use their own resources and those of the community to resolve problems.  Clinical Social Workers use a variety of mental health interventions (talk therapy) and community-based social workers focus on social interventions at the community level. 

A Registered Psychotherapist is an individual who is trained and licensed to provide psychotherapy in Ontario. They have completed the necessary training and supervision recognized by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. These practitioners specialize in providing counseling on interpersonal, social, and psychological obstacles, often including those with clinical diagnoses and extensive trauma, which have come as a result of mental health challenges. Each psychotherapist will have their own approach and areas of specialization as a result of their individual experience and training. 

Further, unlike the act of psychotherapy, counseling is not regulated in Ontario. A ‘counselor’ or a ‘therapist’ is a broad term that includes the professions listed above. 

We encourage everyone to choose what feels right for them as they begin their therapeutic journey! Here at Mitchell Counselling & Psychotherapy Services we have a dedicated group of professionals ready to assist you in your healing journey. For more information or to see who may be a good fit for you, check out Our Team or Contact Us directly!