FAQ About Psychologists
What do psychologists do?
Psychologists work with you to better understand any difficulties you may be experiencing. Together, you explore what changes might be helpful and develop strategies to support the changes you want to make. Therapy is collaborative, practical, and tailored to your individual needs.
What sorts of problems can psychologists help with?
Psychologists use evidence-based practice to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health, emotional, and behavioural difficulties, including:
What will I be asked about?
The first session focuses on listening to your concerns and understanding your goals. Dr. Roberts will also ask about your strengths, interests, and what is going well in your life. This helps create a person-centred plan tailored to your needs.
Is a psychologist the same as a psychiatrist?
No. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who diagnose mental illness and can prescribe medication. Psychologists have doctoral-level training in psychology, and are licensed to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health, emotional, and behavioural difficulties using evidence-based interventions. Psychologists do not prescribe medication, but are trained to administer and interpret psychological assessments.
What is the difference between a psychologist and a clinical counsellor?
While both provide talk-based support, psychologists and clinical counsellors differ in training and scope. Psychologists are licensed under the HPOA (April 1, 2026) and CHCPBC, and can assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders using evidence-based approaches. Clinical counsellors usually hold a master’s-level qualification and provide emotional support and guidance, but cannot diagnose or administer formal psychological assessments.
Why choose a psychologist?
Psychologists combine theory, research, and practice to provide a comprehensive, regulated approach to mental health. They can diagnose, develop tailored strategies, and offer specialised psychological testing when needed. Choosing a psychologist ensures you are seeing a licensed professional with advanced training in mental health, emotional wellbeing, and behavioural interventions.
What do psychologists do?
Psychologists work with you to better understand any difficulties you may be experiencing. Together, you explore what changes might be helpful and develop strategies to support the changes you want to make. Therapy is collaborative, practical, and tailored to your individual needs.
What sorts of problems can psychologists help with?
Psychologists use evidence-based practice to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health, emotional, and behavioural difficulties, including:
- Mood disorders (depression, low mood)
- Anxiety, stress, phobias, and post-traumatic stress
- Trauma and adjustment to life transitions
- Chronic illnesses (diabetes, heart disease, irritable bowel, cancer)
- Dementia and developmental disorders
- Pain disorders, insomnia, and palliative care
- Brain injuries and neurological conditions (for neuropsychology-trained psychologists)
What will I be asked about?
The first session focuses on listening to your concerns and understanding your goals. Dr. Roberts will also ask about your strengths, interests, and what is going well in your life. This helps create a person-centred plan tailored to your needs.
Is a psychologist the same as a psychiatrist?
No. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who diagnose mental illness and can prescribe medication. Psychologists have doctoral-level training in psychology, and are licensed to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health, emotional, and behavioural difficulties using evidence-based interventions. Psychologists do not prescribe medication, but are trained to administer and interpret psychological assessments.
What is the difference between a psychologist and a clinical counsellor?
While both provide talk-based support, psychologists and clinical counsellors differ in training and scope. Psychologists are licensed under the HPOA (April 1, 2026) and CHCPBC, and can assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders using evidence-based approaches. Clinical counsellors usually hold a master’s-level qualification and provide emotional support and guidance, but cannot diagnose or administer formal psychological assessments.
Why choose a psychologist?
Psychologists combine theory, research, and practice to provide a comprehensive, regulated approach to mental health. They can diagnose, develop tailored strategies, and offer specialised psychological testing when needed. Choosing a psychologist ensures you are seeing a licensed professional with advanced training in mental health, emotional wellbeing, and behavioural interventions.