Provisional Registration and Psychotherapy

Q&As Notice

As of June 1, 2023, the updated Standards of Practice will apply to all occupational therapists. The College’s practice guidance documents, case studies, Q&As, and other materials are currently being updated to reflect these changes.

In case of discrepancies, please refer to the Standards of Practice, 2023 for the most current information. If you have any questions, please contact the College’s Practice Resource Service practice@coto.org.

Question: I hold a provisional registration certificate. Can I practice psychotherapy? 

Answer: The Standard for Psychotherapy, 2023 (coto.org) states that an occupational therapist must hold a general certificate of registration to practice psychotherapy.

General registration (a general certificate) is issued by COTO to applicants who meet all the registration requirements. General registrants can practice without restriction including the practice of psychotherapy.

As psychotherapy is not an entry-level occupational therapist skill, provisional registrants are required to complete all their registration requirements and obtain the additional psychotherapy competencies through training and supervision, prior to practicing psychotherapy. 

For any questions, please contact our Practice Resource Service at 1-800-890-6570 ext. 240 or practice@coto.org.