Psychologists and Psychological Associates are healthcare professionals trained in the assessment, treatment and prevention of behavioural and mental conditions. They diagnose neuropsychological disorders and dysfunctions as well as psychotic, neurotic and personality disorders and dysfunctions. In addition, they use a variety of approaches directed toward the maintenance and enhancement of physical, intellectual, emotional, social and interpersonal functioning.

Please be advised that Psychologists who have completed a doctoral degree (PhD/PsyD/EdD), have earned the right to the title “Doctor”. “Doctor” is, however, more than an honorific, it is the proper title for addressing doctoral-level Psychologists as set out in the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA), 1991. Section 33 of the RHPA states, as follows:

Restriction of title “doctor”

33. (1) Except as allowed in the regulations under this Act, no person shall use the title “doctor”, a variation or abbreviation or an equivalent in another language in the course of providing or offering to provide, in Ontario, health care to individuals. 1991, c. 18, s. 33 (1).

Idem

(2) Subsection (1) does not apply to a person who is a member of,

1. the College of Chiropractors of Ontario;
2. the College of Optometrists of Ontario;
3. the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario;
4. the College of Psychologists of Ontario; or
5. the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario. 1991, c. 18, s. 33 (2).

According to the 17th edition of the Canadian Press Stylebook, the title “Dr.” should be applied to licensed healthcare professionals who have earned access to the title by degree and legislation, as follows:

Professional titles

1. In general, use Dr. for licensed health-care professionals. Where pertinent, specify.
   Dr. John Lucyk; Lucyk, an orthodontist. Dr. Sonya Chong; Chong, a chiropractor. Dr. Bert Clifford; Clifford, a veterinarian. Dr. Catherine Clarke; Clarke, a psychologist.

Note: Each province decides which of its health-care practitioners may use Dr. (In Ontario, that includes chiropractors, physicians, psychologists, dentists, optometrists and podiatrists.)