Therapist vs. Psychologist: What's the Difference?

A hand of a psychologist writing in a notebook with a patient sitting across from them.

When you live with chronic pain, finding the right professional support can feel like another challenge. You may hear the terms “therapist” and “psychologist” used together, but they aren’t the same.

While both professionals support your mental health, they have different levels of education and scopes of practice. The key difference is that a psychologist is licensed to provide a formal diagnosis, and uses science-backed therapies to address complex conditions like chronic pain.

The Roles: What Therapists & Psychologists Do

A Look at Therapists

A therapist is a mental health professional who provides support, typically through talk therapy. They help you navigate emotional and behavioural challenges by creating a safe space to explore your feelings. Their focus is on helping you develop coping strategies for life’s difficulties.

A Look at Psychologists

A psychologist can do everything a therapist does, but their training is more in-depth. They are educated to assess, diagnose, and treat complex mental health conditions.

They often use scientifically researched methods to help you understand the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours—a key part of a holistic approach to pain management.

Diagnosis & Treatment Approach

In Nova Scotia, psychologists are licensed to provide formal mental health diagnoses. A therapist can help you manage symptoms, but they usually cannot make the official diagnosis themselves. For chronic pain, a formal diagnosis can clarify your path to treatment and may be useful for insurance purposes.

How Treatment Methods Differ

Both professionals use talk therapy to help you, but their methods can vary. A psychologist’s training often concentrates on specific, research-backed therapies. This can be particularly helpful for managing chronic pain, which frequently involves complex psychological factors that affect your physical health.

A person laying in bed, feeling the mental and physical effects of chronic pain.

How a Psychologist Can Help with Chronic Pain

Living with chronic pain affects more than just your body. It impacts your thoughts and emotions, too. A psychologist uses evidence-based therapies to explore this mind-body connection.

This collaborative method is part of a holistic plan for your pain management, looking at you as a whole person.

Develop Practical Coping Skills

A psychologist can teach you skills to change how you relate to pain. This is not about pretending the pain isn’t there; it’s about reducing its control over your life. You can learn to manage difficult symptoms, improve your daily function, and get back to the activities you value.

Use Evidence-Based Techniques

Psychologists use well-researched therapies to help with the mental and emotional effects of chronic pain. These can include techniques that help you build resilience and find relief. Some common approaches are:

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns related to your pain.
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) helps build psychological flexibility and focus on your values.
Mindfulness-based strategies to help you stay present and manage stress.

Choose the Right Support for You in Nova Scotia

When to Consider a Therapist

A therapist can be a great choice if you need support for general life stress, relationship difficulties, or grief that may exist alongside your chronic pain. They provide a valuable and confidential space to talk through your feelings. This can be a very helpful part of your overall wellness plan.

When to Consider a Psychologist

A psychologist is often a good fit if:

You think you might need a formal assessment or diagnosis.
Your chronic pain is connected to significant anxiety, trauma, or depression.
You want a treatment plan grounded in psychological science to address complex pain-related challenges.

Your Next Step for Pain Management in Halifax

Deciding between a therapist and a psychologist depends on your unique circumstances and health goals. The aim is to find a professional you feel comfortable with and who can provide the right kind of support. Taking this step is about building a supportive partnership to help you live a fuller life.

The team at One to One Wellness is a unique blend of talented people working together to support comprehensive wellness. Our collaborative approach to pain management in Halifax brings together different professionals to help you. If you are ready to explore your options, contact us to learn more about how we can support you.