The practice of psychology in Canada is regulated at the provincial and territorial level to protect the public interest. With the exception of Yukon, only licensed/registered psychologists may practice in Canada, and they may only practice in provinces or territories where they have been licensed/registered.
Registered psychologists are regulated as health professionals. They typically provide services to manage and enhance the cognitive, behavioural, emotional, interpersonal, and physical functioning of individuals or groups of people by applying and using psychological assessment and intervention strategies, including psychometric testing and psychotherapy. As part of this work, psychologists also assess and diagnose behavioural, emotional, cognitive, and mental disorders.
The practice of psychology is quite broad and registered psychologists work in a variety of settings with clients of all ages and issues. Psychologists typically focus their practice in specific areas such as clinical, counselling, forensic, health, rehabilitation, or school psychology. Some maintain a focus on teaching, research, and/or industrial/organizational psychology. Psychology services are provided in a variety of contexts, including private practice, schools, health clinics, hospitals, jails, courts, social welfare agencies, rehabilitation centres, businesses, and universities.