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The number of psychological practitioners in Canada has grown substantially over the past two decades, and numerous professional and legislative changes have occurred during this time. However, the most recent surveys examining the nature of professional psychology in Canada were published more than 20 years ago. To obtain current information on the practice of professional psychology, 538 practitioners completed a survey focusing on demographics and practice characteristics. Among other general practice findings, these data indicate (a) the growing number of female professional psychologists, (b) the frequent provision of psychological services within private health care settings, and (c) the common endorsement of the cognitive-behavioral orientation. The results of the survey also revealed many important differences in practice patterns between those registered on the basis of master's or doctoral level training and between those employed full-time in public or independent practice settings. Most strikingly, the majority of practitioners in both private and public practice were engaged in professional activities that are broader than only direct service. Implications for trainees, training programs, and the profession are presented and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]