Your Guide to Counsellors in BC: Understanding Titles, Training, and Coverage

Finding the right mental health support in British Columbia can be confusing, especially when counsellors, psychologists, social workers, and even unregulated “therapists” use overlapping titles. Unlike some provinces, BC does not yet have a regulatory college for counsellors, which means anyone can call themselves a counsellor—making it important to understand who is qualified, what those credentials mean, and what services your insurance will cover.

This guide breaks down the key differences between Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC), Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC), Registered Social Workers (RSW), Psychologists, Psychiatrists, and unregulated helpers such as life coaches. We’ll also walk you through which professionals are regulated, who is usually covered by extended health benefits, and practical steps to verify a therapist’s credentials so you can choose support with confidence.