In December 2017, psychotherapy became a protected act to ensure safe and effective treatment of individuals suffering from mental health difficulties. In years prior, clients could go to an unqualified “professional” who would refer to themselves as a psychotherapist but had little to no training in the field. Scary! Now anyone using the title “Psychotherapist” must be registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). The college has strict criteria that has to be met for a professional to register as a psychotherapist including educational background, experience and extensive clinical supervision.
When searching for a psychotherapist, ensure that they are registered and in good standing with the CRPO. Be careful with “coaches” and “counsellors” who are NOT registered with CRPO.