Psychologists have completed a bachelor's degree and then continued in graduate training in psychology (the study of human development, learning and behaviour), and may have specialized in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness, emotional disorders, and behavioural problems. Although they may have training in the uses of medication to treat mental illness, they do not prescribe medication. Psychologists work to help people understand the nature of difficulties they may be dealing with, develop insight and skills to minimize and manage the impact of problems, and may coordinate with other health service providers, including physicians. Psychologists are also only professionals specifically trained and qualified in the development, research and administration of specialized psychological tests used to assess elements of intelligence or achievement, personality characteristics, mental and emotional disorders, and/or the effects of brain injury." (Source: BC Psychological Association)
Counsellors may have a range of backgrounds and may have master's or doctoral-level degrees from counselling programs. However, individuals may otherwise refer to themselves as a "therapist" or "counsellor", but may or may not have training in the assessment or treatment of mental health issues." (Source: BC Psychological Association). Pertaining to the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, therapists are trained as "human relationships practitioners" or a "more in-depth practitioners to assist with thinking and feeling.... Professional practitioners in these categories will either be Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC), voluntarily registered with BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC), or hold voluntary Canadian Counsellor Certification (CCC) with the Canadian Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). (Source: BC Association of Clinical Counsellors)