Bill 21 defines psychotherapy as "psychological treatment for a mental disorder, behavioural disturbance or other problem resulting in psychological suffering or distress, and has as its purpose to foster significant changes in the client’s cognitive, emotional or behavioural functioning, interpersonal relations, personality or health. Such treatment goes beyond help aimed at dealing with everyday difficulties and beyond a support or counselling role."

In addition, besides respecting laws and regulations governing the practice of psychotherapy, a professional providing psychotherapy must:

1) establish a structured process of interaction with the client;

2) make a rigorous initial evaluation;

3) apply therapeutic methods based on communication;

4) rely on theoretical models that are scientifically recognized and respect human dignity.

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