When should a teenager see a psychologist?
"Psychologist" is often used as a catch-all for any mental health professional, but psychologists offer something specific that other therapists usually don't: formal psychological assessment. Here's when that matters for a teen.
Signs a psychologist is the right call
- School struggles that don't add up. Effort is there but results aren't, and you suspect a learning disability. A psychoeducational assessment can identify it and support accommodations.
- Questions about ADHD that need a formal assessment.
- A complex or unclear picture, where several things overlap and a clear diagnosis would guide treatment.
- A school, college or university asks for documentation. Learning disability diagnoses typically need to come from a registered psychologist (in Ontario, for example, a psychologist or psychological associate registered with the provincial college: LDAO).
Even university counselling services may point students to a private psychologist or public options for a full assessment, because counsellors there don't provide diagnoses (Dalhousie University).
When a therapist is the better fit
For most reasons teens start therapy (worry, stress, low mood, school pressure, friendships, dating, family conflict, anger or self-esteem), a licensed therapist who works with teens is usually the right place to start. Psychologists provide therapy too, so if you find one who's a great fit, that works as well. See How to choose a therapist for how to choose.
When a psychiatrist is needed
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor. Psychiatrists focus mostly on diagnosis and prescribing rather than ongoing talk therapy (First Session), and usually require a referral. Start with your family doctor if symptoms are severe, aren't improving with therapy, or medication may help.
Cost and public options in Nova Scotia
- Private psychologists aren't guaranteed public coverage in Canada, so families often pay or use insurance (CMHA). Ask for a written quote for an assessment before booking.
- Public: Nova Scotia's Child and Adolescent Services (under 19) include assessment for autism spectrum disorders, accessed through Mental Health and Addictions Intake at 1-855-922-1122 (Nova Scotia Health).
- School: ask your school's student services team what assessment options exist through the school.
More on costs: Is therapy free for minors in Canada?.
How to find a licensed psychologist
Search the Nova Scotia Regulator of Psychology public register, and ask whether they assess teens and what the assessment includes. Many families see a therapist for support while they wait for an assessment.
Frequently asked questions
When should a teenager see a psychologist?
When they need formal testing, like an assessment for a learning disability or ADHD, or when the picture is complex and a clear diagnosis would guide next steps.
What's the difference between a psychologist and a therapist for a teen?
Both provide therapy. Psychologists also do formal psychological assessments. For ongoing support, a licensed therapist with teen experience is usually a good fit.
Who can diagnose a learning disability?
Typically a registered psychologist. Requirements vary by province and institution, so check with your school or college.
Is a psychologist covered by MSI in Nova Scotia?
Private psychologists aren't guaranteed public coverage in Canada. Families often pay directly or use health benefits. Some publicly funded assessments are available through Mental Health and Addictions Intake.
Courtney Cribb, MEd, RCT, CCC, is a Registered Counselling Therapist in Nova Scotia who works mostly with teens and young adults. Her research on teens and sexting is published in the Canadian Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy. She offers online sessions by video or phone across Nova Scotia and, where permitted, elsewhere in Canada. Learn about teen therapy with Courtney.
Think we might be a good fit?
Not sure what your teen needs yet? A free 15-minute vibe check is a good place to start.
Not sure yet? Take the 2-minute fit quiz.
Sources
- Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario: Psychological assessment for LDs
- Dalhousie University: Learning disability and ADHD supports
- First Session: Is therapy covered by provincial healthcare plans in Canada?
- CMHA: Statement on federal guidance on the Canada Health Act
- Nova Scotia Health: Child and Adolescent Services
- Nova Scotia Regulator of Psychology: public register
This article is general information, not medical or legal advice.