The cost of therapy in Canada ranges widely depending on a few different factors. You might have full or partial coverage through private or workplace insurance, and some Canadians have the option of low-cost, free, or government funded options.
The cost of therapy is a deciding factor for many, so knowing what you qualify for and how much it will cost is important.
Counsellor VS Psychologist
Typically psychologists have a “PsyD”, therefore their costs are a bit higher than a counsellor, anywhere from $200-250 per session. Psychologists provide assessments and diagnoses, that counsellors do not. Counsellors generally have a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology or Social Work.
Counsellors use a lot of the same methods as psychologists (ie, somatic techniques, CBT, and more) however, they typically start in the $90-170 per session range due to not offering formal assessments and diagnoses.
Choosing The Right Therapist
When choosing the right therapist, cost will be one of the factors to consider. Therapy is a safe space where you feel comfortable speaking about your issues, so make sure that you choose someone you feel comfortable opening up to. Many therapists will specialise in different areas, so also consider the issues you will be addressing. Here are a few more tips on how to choose the right counsellor for you.
Is Therapy Covered in Canada?
Typically, if someone is treated for mental health issues through a hospitalised or doctor visit, then treatment is covered.
Visiting a psychiatrist by referral of a doctor in Canada is also covered, however just note that a psychiatrist is different from a psychologist or counsellor. A psychiatrist will only provide a mental illness diagnosis and prescribe medication, but do not offer psychotherapy to patients directly.
Otherwise licensed and registered psychotherapists, social workers or counsellors who work in private practices are not covered directly by provincial healthcare plans in Canada, but there are scenarios where mental health is offered at zero cost by public health.
Federally Supported Mental Health Services
In Canada, there are government funded organizations like the Canadian Mental Health Association and Canadian Psychological Association that can help you find the services you need.
Your province may offer free mental health support through government funded programs and with a doctor's approval, many provinces will offer coverage for therapy or counselling.
ConnexOntario: Supports gambling, mental and addiction problems in Ontario for people over 18
Kids Help Phone: A website and phone line that supports children under the age of 18.
Good2Talk: A 24/7 mental health support for post secondary student in Ontario and Nova Scotia
BounceBack Ontario: A guided self-help program including workshops and phone coaching for those 15 and over
Medical Benefits and Private Insurance
If you pay into medical benefits through your workplace, or pay for private insurance, you are likely to receive an annual medical allowance for therapy and counselling. Double check with your workplace or insurance company on how much they will cover.
Sliding Scale Therapy
Sliding scale therapy is a great option if the prices listed are feeling a little steep. In order to make therapy accessible to everyone, therapists will often offer therapy at sliding scale rates. This can be anywhere from a few dollars to up to half of their hourly rate. This option is not always advertised online. If you are considering therapy but can’t afford it, don’t be shy to call or email an office and ask if they offer sliding scale pricing.
Final Thoughts
Although therapy can be an additional expense, those who need it understand the benefits outweigh the cost. You can’t put a price on your emotional and mental well-being. That being said, there are many options to help subsidise or make therapy more accessible for everyone. Check with your provincial services to see what subsidised options they offer.
If you are interested in counselling but still have a few questions, contact our office for a complimentary consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!