Therapists in Counselling and Related Specialized Therapies perform some or all of the following duties:

• Interview clients and prepare detailed case histories
• Assess emotional, psychological, and behavioural issues
• Develop and implement individualized counselling and treatment plans
• Provide individual, group, and family therapy sessions
• Facilitate mediation and conflict resolution
• Refer clients to community services such as healthcare, housing, or legal support
• Monitor and evaluate client progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly
• Prepare assessment reports, progress notes, and court-related documentation
• Supervise junior counsellors, therapists, or support staff
• Deliver public education programs and professional consultations
• Provide expert testimony in legal or administrative proceedings
• Conduct research and contribute to mental health program development

These are the typical employment requirements and benefits associated with this occupation in Canada:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in counselling, psychology, therapy, or a related social services discipline is required.
• Master’s degree is typically required for specialized therapy roles such as art, music, or dance therapy.
• Supervised clinical experience is mandatory for most positions.
• Registration or licensing with a provincial regulatory body is often required.
• Membership in a professional association is usually required.
• Psychotherapy licensing is required in Ontario and Quebec for specific roles.
• Registration is required in provinces such as Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
• Specialized roles in Quebec (e.g., marriage and family therapist, psychoeducator, sexologist) require provincial certification.
• Strong interpersonal, counselling, and analytical skills are essential.
• Foreign-trained professionals must complete credential assessment and provincial registration before practicing.