The Difference Between a Psychologist and a Counsellor in BC | EMDR Therapist Vancouver & Across Canada
- Megan Yerxa
- Jul 15
- 4 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
If you've been searching for therapy in Vancouver, EMDR therapy in BC, or mental health support anywhere in British Columbia, you've probably come across a confusing range of professional titles:
Psychologist
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)
Therapist
Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC)
Social Worker
Psychotherapist
Understanding the differences can feel overwhelming, especially when you're already trying to find the right support.
The good news is that for most people seeking help with trauma, anxiety, grief, or relationship concerns, both psychologists and Registered Clinical Counsellors can provide excellent therapy. The key is finding someone with the right training and approach for your needs.
As an EMDR therapist in Vancouver, I often receive questions about the differences between these professions. Here's what you need to know.
What Is a Psychologist in BC?
In British Columbia, psychologist is a protected professional title.
To become a registered psychologist, a person must complete:
A doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD)
A supervised clinical internship
Registration with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (which regulates psychologists in the province)
Psychologists are uniquely qualified to conduct:
Psychological assessments
Diagnostic testing
Cognitive assessments
Learning disability assessments
ADHD assessments
Autism assessments
If you require formal psychological testing or a diagnostic assessment, a psychologist is generally the appropriate professional.
Many psychologists also provide therapy and may specialize in evidence-based treatments including EMDR therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and trauma-informed care.
Because of their extensive education and assessment scope, psychologist fees are typically higher than counselling fees. Many extended health plans provide coverage, although benefits vary.
What Is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)?
A Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) is one of the most common and respected counselling credentials in British Columbia.
RCCs are registered through the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC).
To become an RCC, counsellors complete:
A master's degree in counselling or a related mental health field
Supervised clinical practice
Clinical supervision requirements
Ongoing professional development and ethical standards
RCCs provide therapy for concerns including:
Trauma
Anxiety
Depression
Stress
Childhood trauma
PTSD and complex trauma
Relationship issues
Grief and loss
Self-esteem
Life transitions
Although RCCs cannot perform formal psychological assessments, they provide the vast majority of counselling services people seek.
Whether you're looking for in-person counselling in Vancouver or online counselling across BC, many RCCs are highly trained in specialized trauma therapies, including EMDR therapy.
What About the Title "Therapist"?
This is one area that surprises many people.
In British Columbia, therapist is not a protected title.
Technically, anyone can call themselves a therapist, regardless of education or professional registration.
That's why it's important to look beyond the title itself and verify professional credentials such as:
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)
Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC)
Registered Psychologist
These designations indicate that the professional has met established education, supervision, ethical, and continuing education standards.
What Is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC)?
The Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) designation is granted by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).
CCC certification demonstrates that a counsellor meets national professional standards.
Many counsellors in British Columbia—including myself—hold both the RCC and CCC designations, reflecting both provincial and national standards of professional practice.
Psychologist or Counsellor: Which Should You Choose?
For most people seeking therapy, the decision comes down less to the title and more to the therapist's experience, specialization, and therapeutic approach.
A psychologist may be the right choice if you need:
Formal psychological testing
Diagnostic assessments
Court-ordered evaluations
Cognitive assessments
A Registered Clinical Counsellor is often an excellent choice if you're seeking therapy for:
Anxiety
Trauma
Childhood emotional neglect
PTSD
Complex trauma
Relationship challenges
Stress
Burnout
Personal growth
If you're specifically looking for EMDR therapy in Vancouver or online EMDR therapy in BC, it's worth asking about the therapist's EMDR training and certification—not simply their professional designation.
Why EMDR Training Matters
Not every psychologist or counsellor is trained in EMDR.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an advanced trauma therapy that requires additional education, consultation, and supervised practice beyond graduate school.
If you're looking for treatment for:
Childhood trauma
Complex PTSD
Anxiety
Panic attacks
Attachment wounds
Emotional neglect
Distressing life experiences
It's important to find an experienced therapist who has completed recognized EMDR training.
Insurance Coverage in BC
Extended health plans vary considerably.
Many insurance providers reimburse sessions with:
Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC)
Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC)
Registered Psychologists
Before beginning therapy, it's always a good idea to check:
Your annual coverage amount
Eligible professional designations
Whether a physician referral is required
Looking for an EMDR Therapist in Vancouver?
I am both a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), as well as an EMDRIA Certified EMDR Therapist with more than 17 years of frontline and clinical experience.
I specialize in helping adults heal from:
Complex trauma
Childhood emotional neglect
PTSD
Anxiety
Attachment wounds
Relationship difficulties
I offer both in-person EMDR therapy in Vancouver and online EMDR therapy throughout British Columbia, making trauma-informed counselling accessible wherever you're located in BC.
Whether you're wondering if EMDR is right for you or you're trying to decide between working with a psychologist or counsellor, I'm happy to answer your questions during a free consultation.
Book a Free Consultation
Finding the right therapist (EMDR Therapist Vancouver) is one of the most important parts of the healing process.
If you're looking for an experienced EMDR therapist in Vancouver or online EMDR therapy in BC, I'd be happy to connect and discuss how therapy can support your goals.
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