RP vs. RSW: What's the Difference—and How Do I Choose the Right Therapist?
- Your Story Counselling
- 3 days ago
- 6 min read
If you're exploring therapy for the first time, you might find yourself wondering: What’s the difference between a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and a Registered Social Worker (RSW)? Does one have more experience? Is one better suited to certain issues? And—most importantly—which one is right for you?
At Your Story Counselling, we know that beginning your healing journey can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide to help you understand the titles, how they affect insurance coverage, and what really matters when choosing a therapist.
What Is a Registered Psychotherapist (RP)?
Registered Psychotherapists in Ontario are licensed through the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). They are trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities and specialize in talk-based mental health support such as:
Depression and anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Relationship or family concerns
Stress, burnout, and grief
RPs usually hold a Master’s-level degree in counselling psychology, psychotherapy, or a related field, and complete extensive supervised clinical training before licensure.
🧠 RPs focus primarily on emotional and psychological care through evidence-based talk therapy.
What Is a Registered Social Worker (RSW)?
Registered Social Workers are licensed through the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). Social workers can work in hospitals, schools, community agencies, or private practice—and many also offer psychotherapy services.
RSWs have training in mental health as well as in broader social systems, such as housing, immigration, income security, and health access. They hold at least a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Social Work (BSW or MSW), and their work often includes:
Mental health counselling
System navigation and advocacy
Trauma-informed care
Family and youth support
🌱 RSWs bring both therapeutic and systems-focused perspectives to your care.
Both RPs and RSWs Can Offer Psychotherapy
The most important thing to know? Both RPs and RSWs in Ontario are legally qualified to provide psychotherapy.
Their education and approaches may differ slightly, but both must meet provincial standards, follow strict codes of ethics, and engage in ongoing professional development.
So... Which One Should I Choose?
Here’s the truth: A therapist’s title matters less than their training, experience, and fit for you.
What really makes a difference is:
Their specializations (e.g. trauma, anxiety, ADHD, relationships)
Their approach (e.g. narrative therapy, CBT, mindfulness-based work)
Whether they’re culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, or neurodivergent-affirming
How you feel when talking to them—safe, understood, and supported
Some RPs have decades of clinical experience. Some RSWs specialize in deep trauma work. Some therapists are BIPOC, 2SLGBTQ+, or bring personal lived experience into their care.
💬 It’s okay to prioritize fit and values over professional title.
What About Insurance Coverage?
Here’s where things can get a bit tricky.
Most extended health benefit plans in Canada will cover psychotherapy—but they may only cover sessions with an RP or an RSW, not both. It depends on your provider and plan.
✅ Questions to Ask Your Insurance Provider:
Do you cover psychotherapy?
Do you cover services from Registered Psychotherapists?
Do you cover services from Registered Social Workers?
Do you cover services from other specialists like Certified Canadian Counsellors (CCC) or Registered Marriage and Family Therapists (RMFT)?
What’s the maximum amount covered per year?
Do I need a referral from a doctor?
We recommend calling or emailing your provider directly and writing down their answers. Knowing this ahead of time can save you time and stress.
Tips for First-Time Therapy Seekers
💡 Not sure where to begin? Try these steps:
1. Book a Free 15-Minute Consultation
At Your Story Counselling, we offer free no-obligation consults so you can chat with a therapist and see if it feels like a good match.👉 Book a consult here
2. Explore Our Team
You’ll find RPs, RSWs, music therapists, art therapists, and more—all with diverse backgrounds, identities, and styles.👥 Meet the team
3. Check for Approaches That Matter to You
Look for key values such as:
✅ Trauma-informed
✅ Culturally competent
✅ LGBTQ2S+ affirming
✅ Neurodivergent-affirming
✅ Anti-oppressive care
Final Thoughts
Choosing a therapist is a personal decision—and it’s okay to take your time. While titles like RP and RSW reflect different training paths, both can offer compassionate, skilled psychotherapy. What matters most is finding someone who meets you where you are and walks with you toward where you want to go.
If you’re just starting your journey, our team is here to support you with no pressure, no obligation, and lots of heart.
📍Serving clients in Vaughan, Markham, and across Ontario📆 Book your free 15-minute consultation
Your Story Counselling Services is a multicultural, inclusive, BIPOC clinic that offers online services as well as in-person sessions in Vaughan and Markham.
Judy Lui and her team of clinicians and supervised therapist interns offer trauma-informed, clinical counselling in the form of art, play, and talk therapy. With an emphasis on social equity and justice,
Your Story offers counselling at a range of fee levels. Judy continues to see her clients, manages the clinic as Clinical Director, and mentors master ’s-level therapist interns.
Judy has been featured in the Toronto Star, where she discussed the impact of mental health struggles and the toll of COVID-19 on romantic relationships. She also co-authored a chapter in the first edition of An Intersectional Approach to Sex Therapy Centering the Lives of Indigenous, Racialized, and People of Color. She is a committee member with the Anti-Racism Advocacy Group at the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, where she helps organize community events and panels on racial trauma and advocacy.
Judy is also one of three 2024 RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards Micro-Business Finalists and will represent the Central Canadian Region (Ontario & Montreal) for this honour.
Affordable Therapy York Region is committed to making quality mental health care more accessible across Markham, Vaughan, Concord, and the greater York Region. We offer both virtual and in-person sessions through a diverse team of supervised therapist interns and registered clinicians, with services starting as low as $20 per session.
Our clinic prioritizes culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and inclusive care, ensuring that therapy is respectful of your identity, background, and lived experience. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, relationships, grief, or personal growth, we offer therapy that meets you where you are — emotionally and financially.
We also offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you find the right therapist fit before you commit.Learn more or get started today at www.affordabletherapyyorkregion.ca.
If you have additional questions regarding the contents of this article please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to answer you.
Should you have questions or inquiries regarding counselling and the process of counselling, please visit our FAQ page. contact us to ask questions, or learn more about our team of therapists before signing up for a free 15 minute consultation.
Terms and Conditions of Use:
The information provided in this article is intended to be general knowledge and does not constitute as professional advice or treatment. This information is not intended for the use of diagnosis or treatment. Please do not share or distribute this article without the proper referencing or written/verbal consent of Judy Lui. Additional information can be found at www.yourstorycounselling.com or requested via info@yourstorycounselling.com
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Wondering what the difference is between a Registered Psychotherapist and a Registered Social Worker? Learn how to choose the right therapist for you—and what questions to ask your insurance.
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