Finding the Right Psychotherapy in Barrie, Ontario

Last updated October 13, 2025

Finding the Right Psychotherapist in Barrie: A Simple Guide

With so many choices, looking for a psychotherapist in Barrie can feel overwhelming. It's important to find someone who is a good fit and who can help you if you are dealing with specific mental health needs. Here are some tips to help you on your journey.

At Virtual CBT, we have therapist located across Ontario, including Barrie, Toronto, Mississauga, Ottawa, and Midland.

 

Understand the Different Types of Therapy

Before you start, it helps to know about the different types of therapy available. Here are a few common ones:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical-behavioural therapy

• Psychodynamic therapy

• Attachment-based therapy

• Mindfulness therapy

• Interpersonal therapy

Each type uses different techniques, so it's good to understand which might work best for you.

Know Your Goals and Needs

Think about what you want to achieve in therapy. Are you trying to solve a specific problem or improve your overall mental health? Do you have preferences about your therapist, like their gender or age? Knowing your goals and needs can help you find the right match.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Most insurance plans cover psychotherapy. Find out if your plan covers psychological services. You can either call or look at your plan online. You will want to find out what qualifications your therapist needs for coverage.

In Ontario, several types of professionals are qualified to perform psychotherapy. These include:

1. Registered Psychotherapists (RPs)

   • Members of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

   • Trained specifically in psychotherapy techniques and practices.

   • Meet our registered psychotherapists at Virtual CBT.

2. Psychologists

   • Registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO).

   • Hold a doctoral degree in psychology and have extensive training in mental health assessment, diagnosis, and therapy.

   • Meet our online psychologists at Virtual CBT.

3. Psychological Associates

   • Also registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO).

   • Hold a master's degree in psychology and have significant supervised experience in psychotherapy and assessment.

4. Psychiatrists

   • Medical doctors specialized in mental health.

   • Registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

   • Can prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy.

5. Social Workers

   • Registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW).

   • Hold at least a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) or a master's degree in social work (MSW).

   • Trained in various therapeutic approaches and can provide psychotherapy.

   • Meet our clinical social workers at Virtual CBT.

6. Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) with additional psychotherapy training

   • Registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO).

   • May have specialized training or certification in mental health and psychotherapy.

These professionals are regulated by their respective colleges, ensuring they meet specific educational and professional standards. They must adhere to ethical guidelines and undergo continuous professional development to maintain their licenses.

Research Therapists

Start looking for therapists in Barrie by asking friends, family, or your doctor for recommendations. You can also look online and read reviews on sites like Psychology Today or LinkedIn. Make sure the therapists have the right credentials and experience. Many offer a free 15-minute consultation, so take advantage of that to see if they’re a good fit.

Verify Credentials and Experience

Ensure your potential therapist is licensed and registered with professional organizations like the Ontario College of Registered Psychotherapists or the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. Check their experience with clients who have needs similar to yours. Don’t hesitate to ask about their qualifications.

Schedule a Consultation and Ask Questions

Once you have a few options, schedule a consultation with each therapist. Here are some questions to ask:

• What is your experience with clients like me?

• What is your approach to therapy?

• How long do you typically work with clients?

• What are your fees?

Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with is key to achieving your goals.

Book a Free Consultation with Virtual CBT Psychotherapy

If you're interested in a free consultation, you can click the tab below. Learn about our team members: social workers, psychotherapists, and psychologists. At Virtual CBT, our clinical directors will meet with you and match you with an online therapist in Ontario.

Learn about our therapy fees.

Written by Melissa Lindstrom, RSW, MSW