by Lisa Little, M.Sc., Chartered Psychologist
(About Lisa)(This question answered on or before: 2006-02-20)
Does a Psychologist have to be a PhD?
No, a person practicing as a Chartered Psychologist in Alberta is not required to obtain a PhD. He or she is required to have a Masters level degree in Psychology, generally with a Counseling or Clinical focus. The appropriate designation following their surname is M.Sc. or M.Ed.
A Masters level degree allows them to register as a Chartered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists which operates as a governing body.
I have heard from many people seeking counseling support and it is my own experience as a client in therapy that it is the quality of your relationship with the therapist that is most critical for the healing process to take hold regardless of whether their credentials spell PhD or M.Sc/M.Ed. I hope you have found someone you can grow with.
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