I think Canada is similar; psychiatry is one of many specialties like podiatry or orthopedics, and they can prescribe. There are more specialist MDs here than GPs, which by itself tells you something about our system. While far better than the Yanks in terms of equity and universality, it is far from perfect (as with most things, Canadians are content with just being better than the Yanks, even if that level is mediocrity). I have not experienced a full, proper physical exam in my entire life and I don't even know my own blood type.
I have no idea how psychologists are regulated, but the bar for entry seems pretty low. Many select themselves for the job after experiencing one or another life challenges (don't we all at one time or another). IMO the majority are unfit for the job, but that is not to say there aren't some very good ones.
"Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but they are not entitled to their own facts."