What is Psychotherapy?

While many people are familiar with the terms “psychology” and “psychiatry,” the word psychotherapy often leads to questions. As a Counselling Psychology student working towards becoming a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) in Ontario, I’ve noticed that many people don’t fully understand what psychotherapy is, who provides it, and how it differs from other mental health services.

Let’s clarify what psychotherapy is—and isn’t—and why it might be the support you’re looking for.

1. Psychotherapy Is a Regulated Mental Health Profession

In Ontario, psychotherapy is a regulated health profession governed by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). This means that Registered Psychotherapists (RPs) must meet rigorous education, training, and ethical standards to provide care. According to the CRPO, psychotherapy involves “the treatment of cognitive, emotional or behavioural disturbances by psychotherapeutic means, delivered through a therapeutic relationship based primarily on verbal or non-verbal communication.”Simply put, psychotherapy is talk therapy focused on helping people understand themselves, work through challenges, and make meaningful changes in their lives.

2. It’s Different From Psychology or Psychiatry

People often confuse psychotherapy with psychology or psychiatry, but there are important distinctions:

1. Psychologists are trained to conduct psychological testing and assessments and often have a doctoral degree in psychology.
2. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and focus on the biological aspects of mental health.
3. Psychotherapists work through conversation, relationship, and therapeutic techniques to help clients explore and resolve emotional or behavioural challenges.

All three roles are important, but psychotherapy offers a unique space focused on depth, meaning, and healing through a consistent therapeutic relationship.

3. Psychotherapy Can Support a Wide Range of Issues

Psychotherapy is effective for a broad range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and more. You don’t need a diagnosis to seek therapy—many people come simply because they want a safe place to explore what they’re going through and gain insight.Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or curious about your patterns and emotions, psychotherapy can offer relief, clarity, and growth.

4. The Relationship Is Central to the Process

Unlike quick-fix advice or generic self-help, psychotherapy is grounded in a collaborative relationship between therapist and client. A strong therapeutic alliance creates the safety and trust necessary for deep exploration and change.At Cultivate Mental Health, our RPs work with clients to create a space where they feel seen, heard, and respected. Therapy is not about “fixing” you—it’s about walking alongside you as you make sense of your experience and find new ways of being.

Ready to Begin?

If you’re curious about whether psychotherapy might be right for you, I invite you to reach out. Booking a first session is a courageous step toward greater well-being. You can book a consultation appointment directly through our website, email us at hello@cultivatemh.ca, or call us at ‪(613) 683-0551‬.