About Psychologists

Psychologists study how we think, feel and behave and use this knowledge to help people understand, explain and change their behaviour. Helping to change the way we understand mental health and mental illness, psychologists have also contributed to the treatments and systems we use to help people live well in health and with illness. Psychologists are trained to evaluate, diagnose and treat mental health problems and disorders.

In the Northwest Territories, as with other Canadian jurisdictions, Psychology is a regulated profession under the Health and Social Services Professions Act, with specific regulations for Psychologists. This means that anyone using the title ‘Psychologist’ must hold a current license; this applies to in-person as well as virtual services. Licenses are updated annually. In order to qualify for a license, a Psychologist must prove they have completed academic training (minimum Master’s Degree) that meets specific criteria, complete 1600-hours of supervised practice, and write licensing exams. Licensed Psychologists must also complete minimum continuing education annually and must work in accordance with standards of practice.

Regulation helps to provide clear rights for clients and clear responsibilities for professionals, as well as avenues of recourse for clients if there are complaints about services. To find out if your Psychologist is registered to provide services in the NWT, or if you have a complaint about a Psychologist, contact the Office of the Registrar, Professional Licensing.