Therapists in Parksville, BC

Photo of Marie José Dhaese, PhD, RCC, ATR, RPT-S, CPT-S, Counsellor
Marie José Dhaese
Counsellor, PhD, RCC, ATR, RPT-S, CPT-S
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Waitlist for new clients
I am an adult/child/youth and family therapist and clinical consultant in private practice. As well as being a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), I am a Registered Art Therapist (ATR and BCATR), a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S), and a certified Play Therapist Supervisor (CPT-S). I celebrate 45+ years experience as a counsellor psychotherapist and 35 years teaching internationally the therapeutic methods I have developed called Holistic Expressive Therapy. For 34 years, I have taught courses at the Justice Institute of British Columbia where a certificate on my approach to therapy is offered.
I am an adult/child/youth and family therapist and clinical consultant in private practice. As well as being a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), I am a Registered Art Therapist (ATR and BCATR), a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S), and a certified Play Therapist Supervisor (CPT-S). I celebrate 45+ years experience as a counsellor psychotherapist and 35 years teaching internationally the therapeutic methods I have developed called Holistic Expressive Therapy. For 34 years, I have taught courses at the Justice Institute of British Columbia where a certificate on my approach to therapy is offered.
(855) 668-6003 View (855) 668-6003
Photo of Lindsay Neale, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lindsay Neale
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe that every person has the capacity for positive change, and with proper support anyone can find their path forward in their journey. Discovering inner strength and resilience, and learning self-compassion along the way can help us to overcome what has been making us struggle or holding us back. I strive to create an environment that is comfortable and safe, offering an empathetic, caring presence in sessions that enables clients to explore their concerns in a way that feels comfortable for them. I meet clients wherever they are in their journey, and work collaboratively with them to discover their goals and direction.
I believe that every person has the capacity for positive change, and with proper support anyone can find their path forward in their journey. Discovering inner strength and resilience, and learning self-compassion along the way can help us to overcome what has been making us struggle or holding us back. I strive to create an environment that is comfortable and safe, offering an empathetic, caring presence in sessions that enables clients to explore their concerns in a way that feels comfortable for them. I meet clients wherever they are in their journey, and work collaboratively with them to discover their goals and direction.
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Photo of Linnea Saltel, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Linnea Saltel
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Hello and welcome. I work with those who are experiencing trauma, dealing with anxiety, or struggling to find their way out of burnout. I believe that regardless of what we've been through, we all have the capacity to re-connect with who we really are (that inner “self” or “pilot light” that’s always there). I strive to guide individuals in connecting with their true selves and in navigating a path forward that is in line with what’s truly important to them. In sessions with me, you can expect to be met with warmth, curiosity, authenticity, and at times, humour.
Hello and welcome. I work with those who are experiencing trauma, dealing with anxiety, or struggling to find their way out of burnout. I believe that regardless of what we've been through, we all have the capacity to re-connect with who we really are (that inner “self” or “pilot light” that’s always there). I strive to guide individuals in connecting with their true selves and in navigating a path forward that is in line with what’s truly important to them. In sessions with me, you can expect to be met with warmth, curiosity, authenticity, and at times, humour.
(587) 602-2896 View (587) 602-2896
Photo of Deedre Statz - Sacred Sessions Counselling, Deedre, Statz, BA, RTC, Counsellor
Sacred Sessions Counselling
Counsellor, Deedre, Statz, BA, RTC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you struggle with family conflict or anxiety? I work primarily with women who are dealing with grief, trauma, relationship challenges & life transitions. I support clients to access their inner strength, personal goals, and inner wisdom by teaching them to get into relationship with their emotions. My approach to counselling is deeply rooted in compassion & integrity, blending each persons individual belief system with their unique history & life experience. The counselling I offer is both gentle & practical where together we can explore your unique emotional, physical, intellectual, & spiritual values in sacred space.
Do you struggle with family conflict or anxiety? I work primarily with women who are dealing with grief, trauma, relationship challenges & life transitions. I support clients to access their inner strength, personal goals, and inner wisdom by teaching them to get into relationship with their emotions. My approach to counselling is deeply rooted in compassion & integrity, blending each persons individual belief system with their unique history & life experience. The counselling I offer is both gentle & practical where together we can explore your unique emotional, physical, intellectual, & spiritual values in sacred space.
(778) 720-0961 View (778) 720-0961
Photo of Peggy Mahoney, MA, MEd, CCC, Counsellor
Peggy Mahoney
Counsellor, MA, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Not accepting new clients
I am currently moving my practice from Victoria to Parksville. I am a psychologist/counsellor practicing for over 30 years in Alta&BC. My major area of expertise is assistance with trauma related issues. I am trained in EMDR, EFT, and other therapy techniques. I also provide supportive counselling for the critically ill, and dying patients. Services are provided in person and online. I can also see clients in their home or in hospital in the mid-island region. My background also includes working with childhood abuse, addictions, navigating difficult relationships, clarifying goals and actions, and working with suicidal individuals.
I am currently moving my practice from Victoria to Parksville. I am a psychologist/counsellor practicing for over 30 years in Alta&BC. My major area of expertise is assistance with trauma related issues. I am trained in EMDR, EFT, and other therapy techniques. I also provide supportive counselling for the critically ill, and dying patients. Services are provided in person and online. I can also see clients in their home or in hospital in the mid-island region. My background also includes working with childhood abuse, addictions, navigating difficult relationships, clarifying goals and actions, and working with suicidal individuals.
(844) 709-2927 View (844) 709-2927
Photo of Ross Jenkins, MA, CCC, RCC, Counsellor
Ross Jenkins
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Accepting new Clients. People seek counselling for reasons as varied as shifting tidal sands. Some want to ease stress and/or anxiety while others want help regarding past and present mistreatment of visible minorities. Others with visible and/or invisible disabilities may deal with issues regarding accessibility or navigating social interactions. Others yet are dealing with evolving sexual and/or gender identities, seeking help with their new understandings about themselves. Whether changing perspectives or navigating new territory, Inclusions Counselling can help.
Accepting new Clients. People seek counselling for reasons as varied as shifting tidal sands. Some want to ease stress and/or anxiety while others want help regarding past and present mistreatment of visible minorities. Others with visible and/or invisible disabilities may deal with issues regarding accessibility or navigating social interactions. Others yet are dealing with evolving sexual and/or gender identities, seeking help with their new understandings about themselves. Whether changing perspectives or navigating new territory, Inclusions Counselling can help.
(587) 812-4186 View (587) 812-4186
Photo of Mike Purdey, RTC, Counsellor
Mike Purdey
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Moving through our lives we are faced with times when we need to make decisions or are at a crossroad. The choices we make throughout our lives can be big or small, immediate or long term, for ourselves or for others. How we base our decisions is important; we can be influenced from our head or our heart, and from past habits or future dreams. No matter how we come to our conclusion, decisions can be a defining place where we get to choose between self-empowerment and self-sabotage.
Moving through our lives we are faced with times when we need to make decisions or are at a crossroad. The choices we make throughout our lives can be big or small, immediate or long term, for ourselves or for others. How we base our decisions is important; we can be influenced from our head or our heart, and from past habits or future dreams. No matter how we come to our conclusion, decisions can be a defining place where we get to choose between self-empowerment and self-sabotage.
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Photo of Caitlin Leachman, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Caitlin Leachman
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
I work with individuals and couples of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures. I specialize in perinatal mental health, including treatment for emotional and mental health issues arising from difficulty conceiving, pregnancy, motherhood, and the loss of a child, with a focus on the impact of prior trauma on the pregnancy journey. I am also passionate about helping clients navigate trauma, depression, anxiety, disordered eating, body image concerns, addiction, grief, relationship issues, and stress. Let me know how I can help!
I work with individuals and couples of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures. I specialize in perinatal mental health, including treatment for emotional and mental health issues arising from difficulty conceiving, pregnancy, motherhood, and the loss of a child, with a focus on the impact of prior trauma on the pregnancy journey. I am also passionate about helping clients navigate trauma, depression, anxiety, disordered eating, body image concerns, addiction, grief, relationship issues, and stress. Let me know how I can help!
(581) 205-9749 View (581) 205-9749
Photo of Mia Lewis, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Mia Lewis
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
My approach to clients is always strength based, as I believe that every individual has unique strengths that can serve as a foundation for their personal growth. My style is to be warm, open, and nonjudgmental. There are many modes of therapy. I am not limited to, but use cognitive behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness based cognitive therapy and motivational interviewing.
My approach to clients is always strength based, as I believe that every individual has unique strengths that can serve as a foundation for their personal growth. My style is to be warm, open, and nonjudgmental. There are many modes of therapy. I am not limited to, but use cognitive behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness based cognitive therapy and motivational interviewing.
(778) 400-4736 View (778) 400-4736
Photo of Jennifer McRae, MC, BEd, BA CYC, Counsellor
Jennifer McRae
Counsellor, MC, BEd, BA CYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Not accepting new clients
Perhaps you are experiencing a significant transition in your life, wanting to explore your identity, are feeling the influence of anxiety or depression, or are wanting to heal from traumatic experiences you have had. Whatever the life challenge that you are experiencing, I am committed to working collaboratively with you to access your strengths, uncover your preferred vision for living, and create the change that you are seeking.
Perhaps you are experiencing a significant transition in your life, wanting to explore your identity, are feeling the influence of anxiety or depression, or are wanting to heal from traumatic experiences you have had. Whatever the life challenge that you are experiencing, I am committed to working collaboratively with you to access your strengths, uncover your preferred vision for living, and create the change that you are seeking.
(450) 987-1068 View (450) 987-1068
Photo of Stephanie Peter, MA, RCC, SEP, Counsellor
Stephanie Peter
Counsellor, MA, RCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Would you like to feel healthier and more vibrant? Have you been living with anxiety, insomnia, stress, chronic illness or depression? I offer not just tools and strategies to help rebuild your health and energy, but valuable perspective that comes from over 25 years of focusing on these issues. My approach encourages you to become aware of the interplay between your mind and body, and the role your nervous system plays in the development of illness. If you'd like to get back in touch with your own "internal compass" and balance life's demands with greater ease, contact me.
Would you like to feel healthier and more vibrant? Have you been living with anxiety, insomnia, stress, chronic illness or depression? I offer not just tools and strategies to help rebuild your health and energy, but valuable perspective that comes from over 25 years of focusing on these issues. My approach encourages you to become aware of the interplay between your mind and body, and the role your nervous system plays in the development of illness. If you'd like to get back in touch with your own "internal compass" and balance life's demands with greater ease, contact me.
(250) 937-1223 View (250) 937-1223
Photo of Bronwen Rutter, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Bronwen Rutter
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained to work with individuals, couples and families, and will provide support and encouragement to achieve breakthrough for emotional and relational concerns. I also support parents to enhance skills and find greater satisfaction in raising their children. I have over twenty-five years in the counselling field and can provide a supportive, caring space for clients to share their concerns, learn effective coping strategies, begin recovery and reconnect with life.
I am trained to work with individuals, couples and families, and will provide support and encouragement to achieve breakthrough for emotional and relational concerns. I also support parents to enhance skills and find greater satisfaction in raising their children. I have over twenty-five years in the counselling field and can provide a supportive, caring space for clients to share their concerns, learn effective coping strategies, begin recovery and reconnect with life.
(778) 949-9020 View (778) 949-9020
Photo of Meena Bolla Singh, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Meena Bolla Singh
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. As the Clinical Team Lead and Registered Social Worker, I am firmly grounded in social work values of respecting the inherent dignity and worth of a person, promoting social justice and challenging oppressive systems with the goal to decolonize mental health. I passionately lead with a trauma-informed approach, honouring each person who invites me to walk alongside their journey of healing. Working with me, you can expect to experience my sense of humour, warmth, gentle-challenging, and honesty.
I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. As the Clinical Team Lead and Registered Social Worker, I am firmly grounded in social work values of respecting the inherent dignity and worth of a person, promoting social justice and challenging oppressive systems with the goal to decolonize mental health. I passionately lead with a trauma-informed approach, honouring each person who invites me to walk alongside their journey of healing. Working with me, you can expect to experience my sense of humour, warmth, gentle-challenging, and honesty.
(709) 702-0705 View (709) 702-0705
Photo of Stephanie Kennedy, RTC, Counsellor
Stephanie Kennedy
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Welcome to Kennedy With Love - I am Stephanie. Having the courage to seek support can often be met with discomfort and sometimes fear. No matter what you may be feeling or thinking in this moment something has lead you here. This is the first step in connecting with me and inevitably back to yourself. You may be feeling nervous, scared, uncomfortable, or you may have reached a point in your life where you know for certain that something must change. I am here to hold a safe space for you to explore, excavate, and feel deeply the feelings that can free you.
Welcome to Kennedy With Love - I am Stephanie. Having the courage to seek support can often be met with discomfort and sometimes fear. No matter what you may be feeling or thinking in this moment something has lead you here. This is the first step in connecting with me and inevitably back to yourself. You may be feeling nervous, scared, uncomfortable, or you may have reached a point in your life where you know for certain that something must change. I am here to hold a safe space for you to explore, excavate, and feel deeply the feelings that can free you.
(587) 819-0199 View (587) 819-0199
Photo of Diane Hancox, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Diane Hancox
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Not accepting new clients
Please inquire in February 2025 for any new client availability. Do you want to go deeper in your journey? I specialize in EMDR and Depth Psychology which go to the roots of your behaviour. Whether you think you had a 'normal' childhood or know the dysfunction you experienced, we are all wounded by not 'good enough' parenting and thus, develop coping mechanisms (and negative thought patterns) which do not serve us. These adaptations result in depression, anxiety, and a feeling of 'stuckness' or 'blah.' I help clients see, address, and process these (at times, not so) blind spots into healthier, more soulful ways of being.
Please inquire in February 2025 for any new client availability. Do you want to go deeper in your journey? I specialize in EMDR and Depth Psychology which go to the roots of your behaviour. Whether you think you had a 'normal' childhood or know the dysfunction you experienced, we are all wounded by not 'good enough' parenting and thus, develop coping mechanisms (and negative thought patterns) which do not serve us. These adaptations result in depression, anxiety, and a feeling of 'stuckness' or 'blah.' I help clients see, address, and process these (at times, not so) blind spots into healthier, more soulful ways of being.
(866) 449-1259 View (866) 449-1259
Photo of Fira Pierce - Fira Pierce Counselling Services, MSW, RSW, ECE, Registered Social Worker
Fira Pierce Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, ECE
Verified Verified
Online Only
Psychological suffering can take many forms such as loneliness, anxiety, anger, fatigue, brain fog, insomnia and depression; I am here to help you through. Additionally, I can help you with targeted therapy for challenging or confusing diagnosis from a psychiatrist or a psychological assessment. I help people who are dealing with traumas they are aware of and early childhood traumas that remain below consciousness, making it impossible to navigate solo. Additionally, I work with child and caregiver attachment disruption needs such as adoption, foster care and family reunification after and during ministry involvement.
Psychological suffering can take many forms such as loneliness, anxiety, anger, fatigue, brain fog, insomnia and depression; I am here to help you through. Additionally, I can help you with targeted therapy for challenging or confusing diagnosis from a psychiatrist or a psychological assessment. I help people who are dealing with traumas they are aware of and early childhood traumas that remain below consciousness, making it impossible to navigate solo. Additionally, I work with child and caregiver attachment disruption needs such as adoption, foster care and family reunification after and during ministry involvement.
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Photo of Jody Tkach, BScN, MACP, CCC, Counsellor
Jody Tkach
Counsellor, BScN, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
In Person & Online. I help people overcome depression, anxiety, grief, and childhood trauma using my many years of experience. I welcome teens, couples, women in pregnancy, and new parents. Manage life transitions and start living your life in line with your own values and beliefs. Together we will create a safe relationship to explore looking at your life in a new way. I am always open to changing the course of therapy if it doesn’t work for you. I use empathy, relationship, insight, and unconditional positive regard as the foundation for our work together.
In Person & Online. I help people overcome depression, anxiety, grief, and childhood trauma using my many years of experience. I welcome teens, couples, women in pregnancy, and new parents. Manage life transitions and start living your life in line with your own values and beliefs. Together we will create a safe relationship to explore looking at your life in a new way. I am always open to changing the course of therapy if it doesn’t work for you. I use empathy, relationship, insight, and unconditional positive regard as the foundation for our work together.
(249) 701-8639 View (249) 701-8639
Photo of Kathleen Roach, MA, (psy), RCC
Kathleen Roach
MA, (psy), RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
However much we may seek stability, life is a series of interconnected transitions. Sometimes we face complex changes that seem unworkable and challenges that appear impossible. Learning how to deal with the ongoing changes of our lives promotes personal growth and deepens our sense of pupose and fulfillment. With tools and support you can navigate these changes and establish a sense of safety and stability with a deeper, even more fulfilling sense of personal wholeness. Together, we can activate the internal resources that will help you to move forward with confidence. You will know when this therapy is successful.
However much we may seek stability, life is a series of interconnected transitions. Sometimes we face complex changes that seem unworkable and challenges that appear impossible. Learning how to deal with the ongoing changes of our lives promotes personal growth and deepens our sense of pupose and fulfillment. With tools and support you can navigate these changes and establish a sense of safety and stability with a deeper, even more fulfilling sense of personal wholeness. Together, we can activate the internal resources that will help you to move forward with confidence. You will know when this therapy is successful.
(778) 744-8017 View (778) 744-8017
Photo of David Hebb, RSW, MSW, BSW, Counsellor
David Hebb
Counsellor, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
OFFERING PHONE AND WEBCAM SERVICES ONLY. David is an experienced marriage and family therapist, with training in Brief Solution Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. I understand the challenges that individuals,couples and families may face, and believe that marriage and family therapy results in healthier, happier relationships. Our counselling sessions are goal-oriented and solution-focused. Fortitude Counselling believe that facing a challenge in life is an opportunity to challenge yourself and learn new strategies and skills to address the challenge head on.
OFFERING PHONE AND WEBCAM SERVICES ONLY. David is an experienced marriage and family therapist, with training in Brief Solution Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. I understand the challenges that individuals,couples and families may face, and believe that marriage and family therapy results in healthier, happier relationships. Our counselling sessions are goal-oriented and solution-focused. Fortitude Counselling believe that facing a challenge in life is an opportunity to challenge yourself and learn new strategies and skills to address the challenge head on.
(778) 764-2398 View (778) 764-2398
Photo of Earl Blacklock, MALM, MDiv, MC, CCC, Counsellor
Earl Blacklock
Counsellor, MALM, MDiv, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Although I am also a couples counsellor, I work primarily with those who have experienced trauma. Trauma is the experience of being emotionally and psychologically overwhelmed and overcome for weeks, months, or years by adverse childhood experiences and adult traumatic events. My focus is always on the present and a hopeful future - how can those debilitated by anxiety, shame, poor self-worth, child sexual abuse, c-PTSD and PTSD, and dissociative disorders including Dissociative Identity Disorder, become healthy enough to meet their own needs for income, housing, affirming relationships, and wellness - physical, emotional AND mental
Although I am also a couples counsellor, I work primarily with those who have experienced trauma. Trauma is the experience of being emotionally and psychologically overwhelmed and overcome for weeks, months, or years by adverse childhood experiences and adult traumatic events. My focus is always on the present and a hopeful future - how can those debilitated by anxiety, shame, poor self-worth, child sexual abuse, c-PTSD and PTSD, and dissociative disorders including Dissociative Identity Disorder, become healthy enough to meet their own needs for income, housing, affirming relationships, and wellness - physical, emotional AND mental
(778) 770-2917 View (778) 770-2917
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See more therapy options for Parksville

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Parksville, BC

90+

Average cost per session

$140

Counsellors in Parksville, BC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
78% Trauma and PTSD
76% Self Esteem
75% Grief
74% Stress
73% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

43% Pacific Blue Cross
43% First Nations Health Authority
41% Green Shield Canada

How Counsellors in Parksville, BC see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
21% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Parksville?

Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postal code, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postal code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

Most Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are certified by one of the main professional associations, mainly the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and will have a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) designation with their name. Social Workers listed in the directory must be registered members of the college specific to their province. To be listed in the directory, Psychologists must be registered with the psychological college specific to their province or territory.

Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?

Psychologists, counsellors, psychotherapists and social workers can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in Canada.

Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Canada could be between $100 and $200. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postal code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Professionals licensed by regulatory colleges and those certified by associations such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.