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Psychotherapists and counselling therapists

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About psychotherapists and counselling therapists

Psychotherapists/counselling therapistsFootnote i are health care professionals who provide support to facilitate self-knowledge, emotional acceptance and growth, and the optimal development of personal resources to individuals, couples and families.Reference1 The counselling/psychotherapy process is characterized by the application of recognized cognitive, affective, expressive, somatic, spiritual, developmental, behavioural, learning and systemic principles within a therapeutic relationship. Psychotherapists/counselling therapists can focus on a range of aspects in their practices, including mental illness, mental health and wellness, and relationships.Reference1

Psychotherapists/counselling therapists work in a variety of settings such as schools, post-secondary institutions, workplaces, employee assistance programs, community agencies, governments, hospitals and private practices.

CIHI collects high-level, standardized information on more than 30 groups of health care professionals in Canada. This includes information on their supply, distribution, demographics and regulatory environment.

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Footnote

i.

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The terms “psychotherapists” and “counselling therapists” are often used interchangeably. Psychotherapists and counselling therapists have a shared scope of practice and are the same health care professionals; they are simply regulated with a different title based on regional preferences.

Reference

1.

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Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Who are counsellors/psychotherapists?. Accessed September 27, 2022.