The main difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist is the training. A psychiatrist is a licensed medical doctor who has gone on to specialize in psychiatry and mental health disorders. Psychiatrists can prescribe medications as well. The cost of services by a psychiatrist is covered by provincial health care.
Psychologists do not have to train as medical doctors in order to be licensed. In Alberta, psychologists must have at least a master’s degree in psychology. Furthermore, psychologists cannot prescribe medications. In Edmonton, Registered Psychologists are licensed by and professionally and ethically regulated by the College of Alberta Psychologists. The cost of services provided by a Registered Psychologist is typically not covered by our provincial health care.