Registered Psychotherapy in Ontario

Training and Qualifications

To become a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario, individuals must:

• Complete a recognized master’s-level or equivalent training program in psychotherapy, psychology or art therapy or equivalent.

• Acquire substantial supervised clinical experience  and supervision during their training, often through placements in mental health settings within their academic training program.

• Demonstrate competency in a range of psychotherapeutic techniques, ethical practice, and client-centered care.

• Pass the Registration Examination required by the CRPO to assess clinical knowledge and competency.

• Engage in ongoing professional development to maintain their registration and ensure best practices in psychotherapy.

What Does “Qualifying” Mean?

A Qualifying Registered Psychotherapist is a practitioner who has met most of the CRPO’s requirements but has not yet completed the final steps for full registration. These individuals have:

• Completed an approved psychotherapy education program.

• Begun accumulating the required supervised clinical hours.

• Registered with the CRPO under the “Qualifying” category, indicating they are working towards full RP status.

Qualifying RPs must receive clinical supervision from an experienced Registered Psychotherapist, Psychologist, Nurse Psychotherapist or Social Worker until they fulfill the necessary practice hours and pass the CRPO’s registration examination.

The Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA) and the Controlled Act of Psychotherapy

The Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA) governs regulated health professionals in Ontario to ensure public protection and accountability. Under this legislation, only specific regulated professionals are legally authorized to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy.

The six regulated health professionals permitted to perform psychotherapy in Ontario are:

• Registered Psychotherapists (CRPO)

• Nurses (College of Nurses of Ontario – CNO)

• Psychologists (College of Psychologists of Ontario – CPO)

• Social Workers (Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers – OCSWSSW)

• Occupational Therapists (College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario – COTO)

• Physicians (College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario – CPSO)

The CRPO requires that all psychotherapists practicing in Ontario adhere to ethical guidelines, maintain client confidentiality, and continually develop their skills through professional education and supervision.

Why Choose a Registered Psychotherapist?

Registered Psychotherapists offer:

• A client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to individual needs.

• Diverse therapeutic techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), emotion-focused therapy (EFT), psychodynamic therapy, and more.

• Ethical, regulated, and evidence-based care under CRPO guidelines.

At Attuned Therapy + Wellness, our Registered Psychotherapists are dedicated to supporting your healing journey with professionalism and compassion. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today!