Hi logical_emotion,
I think I might be able to clear this up a bit for you (at least in the context of practicing in Ontario).
1. Can anyone clear up the distinction between Counselling and Clinical Psychology in Canada?
Psychologists are licensed at the doctoral level (PhD/PsyD) in Ontario and declare areas of competence (Clinical psychology, counselling psychology, etc.)
When you complete a program at the master's level (like the M.Ed. at OISE) you are eligible to register with the CRPO and are referred to as a Registered Psychotherapist (in Ontario). So, the question becomes what is the difference between a registered psychologist and registered psychotherapist. The main difference between these two professions is that psychologists are able to communicate a diagnosis (assessment) for mental disorders where psychotherapists cannot. However, both are able to treat mental disorders/deliver psychotherapy (intervention).
2. What are the differences in terms of the people I can help/treat?
In private practice, generally, you will be able to treat whoever decides to book an appointment. In general, psychologists (doctoral level) gain exposure through their training with more severe pathology than those trained at the master's level and may feel more comfortable taking on clients in this category.
3. Any differences in terms of salary and need in the market?
In general, psychologists (Recommended rate in Ontario = $225/hour) will earn more than psychotherapists (I don't think the CRPO has a recommended rate - I could be wrong. generally in the range of $100-150/hour - you can look at individual website to get a better feel for this) in private practice. In terms of "need" in the market, I believe there are more registered psychotherapists in Ontario than psychologists (as a result of limited spots for doctoral training). Psychologists are usually covered by third party insurance where registered psychotherapists are less likely to be covered (however, I believe this is slowly changing). I think that "need" generally comes down to location and someone choosing you over another psychotherapist may come down to marketing.
4. Does anyone know any other programs in Counselling or Clinical Psychology in Ontario that don't require the research/thesis requirement?
The two (in Ontario) that don't require a undergrad thesis (that I'm aware of) are the program at OISE and UOttawa also offers a M.Ed. degree in counselling psychology.
5. Lastly, even though it is not a requirement listed in this program on the website, will not having any research exposure harm my chances into this particular program?
If you're applying to a non-research-based program like the ones listed above I don't think a lack of research experience will reduce your chances. I believe they look more for appropriate clinical experience when making their admission decisions.
Hope this helps!