Definitions…

In the field of mental health care, terminology can be confusing. But what do they all imply, and which program or professional is best suited to your specific needs? Let us clarify some misunderstandings by providing definitions for widely used mental health words!

Disclaimer: These definitions are loosely based on each practice and are not in any way 100% exactly what each profession covers.

A breakdown of some of the language...

  • Registered Counselling Therapist

    Specializing in the delivery of talk therapy to assist clients in addressing emotional, mental health, and relational challenges. Typically, a master's degree in counselling or a related field is required. The emphasis is on the enhancement of well-being through structured therapy sessions, which are frequently administered for mild to moderate issues. Depending on the jurisdiction, certification or licensing is required.

  • Psychotherapist

    Professionals who have received training in the provision of therapy to address mental health issues are frequently referred to as "psychotherapists." Education may vary, but it may encompass professions such as social workers, psychologists, or counsellors who have received training in psychotherapy techniques. Some forms of therapeutic practice include the use of talk therapy or other modalities, such as CBT, psychoanalysis, trauma therapy, or equine-assisted psychotherapy. This is not a term that is regulated, so the qualifications may differ. It is imperative that you request qualifications of the service provider for the services you are interested in.

  • Social Worker

    A focus on assisting families, individuals, and communities in addressing a variety of obstacles, such as poverty, mental health, relationships, and social services. A bachelor's degree in social work or a master's degree in social work is necessary to become a social worker. Counselling, advocacy, and resource access are among the services that social workers may offer. Some social workers are authorized to provide therapy.

  • Psychologist

    A psychologist uses research-based techniques to diagnose and treat mental health conditions, focusing on human thought, feelings, and behaviour. They can work as researchers, practitioners, or clinicians in various settings, including hospitals, schools, clinics, and correctional facilities. Psychologists primarily work with individuals, groups, families, governments, private industries, and animals. Psychologists need a minimum of a Master’s degree to be registered in Saskatchewan.

  • Psychiatrist

    Psychiatrists (medical doctors) diagnose and treat mental health issues, providing counselling and medication. They specialize in specific areas like addiction psychiatry or age groups, and are certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

  • Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

    Equine Assisted Psychotherapy is a treatment method that uses horses to help individuals overcome mental health challenges like addiction, PTSD, depression, and trauma. This therapy involves structured activities with horses, fostering personal growth and emotional healing. The bond between humans and horses aids in trust, communication, and self-awareness. Mental health professionals and equine specialists work together to guide clients, teaching life skills like leadership and teamwork. A common practice or approach is the practice of EAGALA (Equine-Assisted Growth and Learning Association).

  • Equine-Assisted Learning

    Equine Assisted Learning

    Through horse interactions, the emphasis is on personal growth, emotional awareness, and leadership abilities. This is not a formal therapy. Facilitators are frequently certified equine professionals or coaches. By incorporating horses into specifically designed experiential learning exercises, equine-assisted specialists can observe the non-verbal communication of the horses and serve as a translator and guide to motivate the learner to achieve the desired outcome of each exercise. This experiential learning method has been demonstrated to significantly enhance the retention and comprehension of the skills acquired by the participants.

  • Therapeutic Riding

    Therapeutic Horse Riding is a global practice involving horse-related activities for people with disabilities. It involves medical professionals and horse professionals working together to create a specific program tailored to the rider's needs. The horse plays a crucial role in helping the rider achieve their goals. Facilitators are often certified therapeutic riding instructors often regulated through PATH Intl. or CanTRA.

  • Hippotherapy

    Hippotherapy is a therapeutic approach using a horse for motor pre-requisites acquisition rather than equestrian abilities. It is a rehabilitation strategy involving physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech language pathologists. The horse's motor and emotional stimulation is unparalleled, offering 110 multidimensional movements every minute. The rider's objectives can be cognitive or behavioral, depending on the initial evaluation. The CanTRA Hippotherapy committee promotes best practice in Canada through education, consultation, and professional development.

    https://cantra.ca/en/services/hippotherapy