Can you give me a diagnosis or prescribe medication?

There is a lot of confusion about who is able to provide a diagnosis or prescribe medication. There isn’t a ton of clear information out there. So here it is: only medical doctors or Registered Psychologists can make a diagnosis, and only medical doctors can prescribe medication. Because of the high demand of medication, family physicians can prescribe medication, but psychiatrists are specialists in this area. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and prescribing medication for mental illness. Their services are covered by OHIP, but, as with other specialists, it can take a long time (several months) to get in to see one.

If you have questions about diagnosis or medication, you can book a psychological assessment with a Registered Psychologist or ask your family doctor. If you don't have a family doctor, doctors at the walk-in clinics can also help.