Therapists in Kingston, ON
Nina Halstead (Halstead Psychotherapy)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7M
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a primary focus in trauma. If you have experienced a traumatic event and are struggling to cope, I am here to help. We all respond to trauma differently, which can sometimes make us question whether what we're experiencing is "normal" or ok. Symptoms can be frightening and confusing and can affect all areas of our lives, including self-esteem, relationships, mood, and more. My aim is to help you understand how trauma affects your brain and body, identify triggers and symptoms, build healthy coping skills, and support you in your journey toward healing.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a primary focus in trauma. If you have experienced a traumatic event and are struggling to cope, I am here to help. We all respond to trauma differently, which can sometimes make us question whether what we're experiencing is "normal" or ok. Symptoms can be frightening and confusing and can affect all areas of our lives, including self-esteem, relationships, mood, and more. My aim is to help you understand how trauma affects your brain and body, identify triggers and symptoms, build healthy coping skills, and support you in your journey toward healing.
Erectile Dysfunction Ontario | Sam Levang
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
You’ve been under-performing in the bedroom and the doctors aren’t able to help. You find yourself worrying about erections, or how long it will take you to ejaculate. That worry started in the bedroom, but now it’s always there. Maybe you find yourself creating distance from your partner because you’re worried it will happen again. You don’t want to disappoint your partner, but how could they not take it personally? Maybe you avoid dating all together, wondering “who is going to want to be with someone who can’t perform in the bedroom?” You feel like less of a man. You feel like a sexual failure. You think “I must be the only one"
You’ve been under-performing in the bedroom and the doctors aren’t able to help. You find yourself worrying about erections, or how long it will take you to ejaculate. That worry started in the bedroom, but now it’s always there. Maybe you find yourself creating distance from your partner because you’re worried it will happen again. You don’t want to disappoint your partner, but how could they not take it personally? Maybe you avoid dating all together, wondering “who is going to want to be with someone who can’t perform in the bedroom?” You feel like less of a man. You feel like a sexual failure. You think “I must be the only one"
Harper Johnston
Registered Psychotherapist, DTATI, MFA, BEd, BA
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L
You know your child best and when your gut feelings tell you that something is going on with your child, it’s time to act on that hunch. My practice is devoted to art and play-based therapies using evidence-based theories and approaches. Clients work at their own pace to creatively explore, understand their own strengths, and implement learned strategies for managing anxiety, stress, school, social concerns, big emotions, grief, gender/orientation and life transitions. I will gently, creatively and compassionately support and nurture your child to overcome their challenges and find their own path to well-being.
You know your child best and when your gut feelings tell you that something is going on with your child, it’s time to act on that hunch. My practice is devoted to art and play-based therapies using evidence-based theories and approaches. Clients work at their own pace to creatively explore, understand their own strengths, and implement learned strategies for managing anxiety, stress, school, social concerns, big emotions, grief, gender/orientation and life transitions. I will gently, creatively and compassionately support and nurture your child to overcome their challenges and find their own path to well-being.
Judeline Salomon Phd
Psychiatric Nurse, BN, MScN, PhD, RN
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7M
I can help when your mental and physical health are affecting your wellbeing. I will help young and mature adults navigate some of the most significant life challenges such as addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and other challenges associated with life, school, and the workplace that may affect your mental health.
I can help when your mental and physical health are affecting your wellbeing. I will help young and mature adults navigate some of the most significant life challenges such as addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and other challenges associated with life, school, and the workplace that may affect your mental health.
Amanda Hammond
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7M
Not accepting new clients
On the outside, you've got it together. You’re reliable, ambitious, and “successful”. On the inside, you never feel good enough, that you’re measuring up - or you’re just burnt out. Crispy, even. You’ve spent the last number of years trying to keep it all together, and wow, is it ever exhausting. You are looking for a change; you now need to come first. You’ve tried the self-help books, old coping skills and continue to feel like you’re drowning. You want to figure out this whole work-life balance thing in a way that doesn’t leave you feeling selfish or guilty. I want to help you get there.
On the outside, you've got it together. You’re reliable, ambitious, and “successful”. On the inside, you never feel good enough, that you’re measuring up - or you’re just burnt out. Crispy, even. You’ve spent the last number of years trying to keep it all together, and wow, is it ever exhausting. You are looking for a change; you now need to come first. You’ve tried the self-help books, old coping skills and continue to feel like you’re drowning. You want to figure out this whole work-life balance thing in a way that doesn’t leave you feeling selfish or guilty. I want to help you get there.
Craig Norton Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
Life can get sticky, and sometimes you just want to talk to someone. We get it! We specialize in treating anxiety, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), boundary issues, depression, and other mental health issues with psychotherapy. Our goal is to create an authentic, relaxed, and supportive space. If you have someone who can see you and listen to you professionally and sympathetically, you can go from stuck to unstuck! If you are curious about getting to know yourself better, book an appointment today!
Life can get sticky, and sometimes you just want to talk to someone. We get it! We specialize in treating anxiety, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), boundary issues, depression, and other mental health issues with psychotherapy. Our goal is to create an authentic, relaxed, and supportive space. If you have someone who can see you and listen to you professionally and sympathetically, you can go from stuck to unstuck! If you are curious about getting to know yourself better, book an appointment today!
Couples & Sex Therapy | Dr. Jackie Huberman
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
You look at your life, and find that something feels off. Maybe your sex life is not what you imagined it would be. Or you’re not feeling fulfilled in your relationship/s. You know what's important to you - connection? intimacy? adventure? family? - but something prevents you from living life to the fullest. Perhaps anxiety, low mood, self-criticism, or shame get in the way. Or you’ve faced a stressor or health issue that has brought new roadblocks. You may have even been on autopilot for so long, being the kind of person you “should” be for others, that you don’t know exactly who you are anymore.
You look at your life, and find that something feels off. Maybe your sex life is not what you imagined it would be. Or you’re not feeling fulfilled in your relationship/s. You know what's important to you - connection? intimacy? adventure? family? - but something prevents you from living life to the fullest. Perhaps anxiety, low mood, self-criticism, or shame get in the way. Or you’ve faced a stressor or health issue that has brought new roadblocks. You may have even been on autopilot for so long, being the kind of person you “should” be for others, that you don’t know exactly who you are anymore.
Sandra Bradley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MEd, RSW
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L
I have over twenty-five years of experience as a client-centered therapist working with both adults and adolescents. I have particular expertise in the areas of anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. My approach is eclectic, drawing upon evidence-based treatments such as CBT, ERPT, mindfulness, and other strategies for reducing anxiety, improving well-being, and building personal confidence and strength. University and college students are welcome. To make an appointment, please email rather than call me. That way I will be able to get back to you more quickly.
I have over twenty-five years of experience as a client-centered therapist working with both adults and adolescents. I have particular expertise in the areas of anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. My approach is eclectic, drawing upon evidence-based treatments such as CBT, ERPT, mindfulness, and other strategies for reducing anxiety, improving well-being, and building personal confidence and strength. University and college students are welcome. To make an appointment, please email rather than call me. That way I will be able to get back to you more quickly.
Dr. Kris Boksman - Happiness Locater
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7M (Online Only)
So, you're feeling down, irritable, stressed-out, and stranded out there without knowing where to start getting better? Are you having trouble getting over negative events from your past? Do you feel like you're failing at this life thing and need to make some serious changes? You've read some books or tried to be more grateful, positive, and energetic, but that doesn't last long enough to get you out of your rut. Your negative moods or behaviours are not going away, and it feels like your challenges are taking over despite your best efforts. It can be legit really hard to get over some of life's hard things, and you're stuck.
So, you're feeling down, irritable, stressed-out, and stranded out there without knowing where to start getting better? Are you having trouble getting over negative events from your past? Do you feel like you're failing at this life thing and need to make some serious changes? You've read some books or tried to be more grateful, positive, and energetic, but that doesn't last long enough to get you out of your rut. Your negative moods or behaviours are not going away, and it feels like your challenges are taking over despite your best efforts. It can be legit really hard to get over some of life's hard things, and you're stuck.
Jasmine Long
Registered Psychotherapist, BAHons, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
Not accepting new clients
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and have been working in the field of addiction and mental health for over 11 years. I offer confidential psychotherapy sessions for individuals, and their family members, struggling with addiction, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Therapy sessions are provided in a safe, non-judgmental environment, and can include a variety of treatment modalities based on client need. I have a special interest in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and have over 8 years of experience facilitating mindfulness groups and individual sessions to assist with emotion regulation, gaining insight, and shifting unhelpful patterns.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and have been working in the field of addiction and mental health for over 11 years. I offer confidential psychotherapy sessions for individuals, and their family members, struggling with addiction, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Therapy sessions are provided in a safe, non-judgmental environment, and can include a variety of treatment modalities based on client need. I have a special interest in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and have over 8 years of experience facilitating mindfulness groups and individual sessions to assist with emotion regulation, gaining insight, and shifting unhelpful patterns.
Angela Daw
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CCC, CCTSI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K (Online Only)
Are you getting triggered, experiencing unexplained pain, or a lack of enjoyment in things you used to love? What about facing an unexpected life transition and feeling overwhelmed, perhaps even questioning who you are anymore? It could be that you've lost someone you loved and the loneliness feels unbearable, or you struggle to manage your emotions when things don't go as planned. If any of those situations resonate with you, let's talk! I work with my clients to grow in self-compassion and to harness their inner bravery to feel better, find connection, and meet their goals. Let's work together to bring transformation to your life.
Are you getting triggered, experiencing unexplained pain, or a lack of enjoyment in things you used to love? What about facing an unexpected life transition and feeling overwhelmed, perhaps even questioning who you are anymore? It could be that you've lost someone you loved and the loneliness feels unbearable, or you struggle to manage your emotions when things don't go as planned. If any of those situations resonate with you, let's talk! I work with my clients to grow in self-compassion and to harness their inner bravery to feel better, find connection, and meet their goals. Let's work together to bring transformation to your life.
15 Second Videos
Erectile Dysfunction Ontario | Sam Levang
Couples & Sex Therapy | Dr. Jackie Huberman
Kris Boksman - Happiness Locater
Angela Daw
SoulScape Services: Psychotherapy & Wellness Hub
Marc J Whitehouse
Taylor Jackson - Distress Demolisher
Kyla Balderson - Wellness Within
David Nesrallah
Postpartum and Parenting Kingston | Donna
Claire Pecora
Infertility & Pregnancy Loss | Dr. Mashal Haque
Onyx Counselling Services - Harmony Jarvis
Emily West Coaching
Angie Vanderwees
Sexual Trauma Therapy Kingston | Jessica Trainor
Laura Nicholson
First Step Men's Therapy
Tanya Beattie
Adam Thompson
Anxiety Relief/Cheryl Storey On-Line Counselling
Centre Wellness
Couples Therapy Ontario | Claire Pecora
Jessica Lankmann - Anxiety Annihilator
Painful Sex, Genital Pain, Vaginismus Cait Forget
Shannon Parsons
Jackie Bristow, ADHD, Self Esteem, Trauma, Anxiety
Brant Stachel
Chelsea Stelmach
Emily Murphy Counselling Services
Sarah G. Horsford
Sara Beck
Gordon Robinson
Jaclyn Spinelli | Boundaries | People Pleasing | Emotion Regulation
Couples Therapy Ontario | Jane Allen Psychologist
Sex Therapy Kingston | Dr. Jenn Bossio
Holly Knowles
Ashley Hughes | Anxiety | Depression | Self Esteem
Sandy Jeffels
Shelley Sayle-Udall
Sonya Watson Adult Adhd Teens Anxiety Supervision
Kelly Polci
Anxiety Therapy for Women - Emily Tidman
Strength Counselling Services
Asd AuDHD Adhd Partners Anxiety Sammi Marriner
Anxiety Therapy for Women - Caitlin Bailer
Alysa Golden
Joannie Dubé
Mark Kotchapaw
First Step Men's Therapy
Paul Gemmell
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7P
My main area of focus is helping eliminate abuse in interpersonal relationships, from as seemingly "light" as bickering to more escalated confrontations. I've worked with perpetrators (males and females) of domestic violence for nine years, helping people to re-establish healthier relationships with partners and family members again. Much of this is developing communication and empathy skills, all in the context of understanding yourself better and, often, the early life experiences you've had that have brought you to this point.
My main area of focus is helping eliminate abuse in interpersonal relationships, from as seemingly "light" as bickering to more escalated confrontations. I've worked with perpetrators (males and females) of domestic violence for nine years, helping people to re-establish healthier relationships with partners and family members again. Much of this is developing communication and empathy skills, all in the context of understanding yourself better and, often, the early life experiences you've had that have brought you to this point.
Lyndsay Foster
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7M
I provide attachment focused Child, Youth and Family Therapy. I use the frameworks of Family Systems Theory and Attachment Theory to guide my clients on the path to optimal mental health and family functioning. I have been providing counselling services and support to children, youth and families since 2009. I have particular experience in the areas of adolescent mental health, addressing parent-child conflict and supporting adoptions and adoptive families.
I provide attachment focused Child, Youth and Family Therapy. I use the frameworks of Family Systems Theory and Attachment Theory to guide my clients on the path to optimal mental health and family functioning. I have been providing counselling services and support to children, youth and families since 2009. I have particular experience in the areas of adolescent mental health, addressing parent-child conflict and supporting adoptions and adoptive families.
Janelle Fisher
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L (Online Only)
The term “Out of the Fog” refers to adoptees coming to terms with feelings and realizations about adoption and their adoption experience. It is a slowly evolving awareness that the reality of the adoption experience may not fit the shiny, happy, and joy filled mold society has constructed. As an adoption professional for the majority of my social work career, I too underwent an awakening about adoption. Part of this process was to acknowledge my participation in damaging practices of adoption and that adoption is complex, non linear, and a life long journey full of a range of emotions.
The term “Out of the Fog” refers to adoptees coming to terms with feelings and realizations about adoption and their adoption experience. It is a slowly evolving awareness that the reality of the adoption experience may not fit the shiny, happy, and joy filled mold society has constructed. As an adoption professional for the majority of my social work career, I too underwent an awakening about adoption. Part of this process was to acknowledge my participation in damaging practices of adoption and that adoption is complex, non linear, and a life long journey full of a range of emotions.
Marcie McCann
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
Are you feeling lost or stuck, like you’re simply going through the motions? Are you aware that you want something different but not sure what it is, or how to get there? Past and present life experiences and stressors can be overwhelming and leave you feeling mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually drained. You do not need to face these challenges alone. Having worked in the field of mental health for over 10 years, my passion is to offer a place of solace where you can truly be seen and heard. Together, we can explore your inner strength and resiliency to help you move toward the changes you want and need in your life.
Are you feeling lost or stuck, like you’re simply going through the motions? Are you aware that you want something different but not sure what it is, or how to get there? Past and present life experiences and stressors can be overwhelming and leave you feeling mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually drained. You do not need to face these challenges alone. Having worked in the field of mental health for over 10 years, my passion is to offer a place of solace where you can truly be seen and heard. Together, we can explore your inner strength and resiliency to help you move toward the changes you want and need in your life.
SoulScape Services: Psychotherapy & Wellness Hub
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
Life is nothing short of amazing. It's amazing how much we can go through and live to tell about it. It's amazing how fast kids grow up and time flies, how angry a co-worker can make you, how much compassion we can seem to have for others when we struggle to offer any to ourselves. It's amazing how much we put on our plates when all we need is to rest. It's amazing how much we can long for understanding and connection and how much opportunity can be missed right in front of our eyes. It's amazing how short life is. It's also amazing how much we can learn in the time we have, and how little steps can amount to such massive change.
Life is nothing short of amazing. It's amazing how much we can go through and live to tell about it. It's amazing how fast kids grow up and time flies, how angry a co-worker can make you, how much compassion we can seem to have for others when we struggle to offer any to ourselves. It's amazing how much we put on our plates when all we need is to rest. It's amazing how much we can long for understanding and connection and how much opportunity can be missed right in front of our eyes. It's amazing how short life is. It's also amazing how much we can learn in the time we have, and how little steps can amount to such massive change.
David Sider
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7M
Accepting NEW clients. I believe we all need a safe non-judgmental space to explore, learn, and grow as humans. You may be struggling with life changes, symptoms related to anxiety, relationship issues, difficulty managing emotions, loss of a loved one or pet, addictions, or simply feeling unmotivated. I am passionate about supporting individuals find a new direction, learn coping strategies, identify their strengths, and become resilient to navigate their world. Reach out today for a free 15-minute consult.
Accepting NEW clients. I believe we all need a safe non-judgmental space to explore, learn, and grow as humans. You may be struggling with life changes, symptoms related to anxiety, relationship issues, difficulty managing emotions, loss of a loved one or pet, addictions, or simply feeling unmotivated. I am passionate about supporting individuals find a new direction, learn coping strategies, identify their strengths, and become resilient to navigate their world. Reach out today for a free 15-minute consult.
Ginger Pharand
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7K
What's your story? I was asked that question not too many years ago when I was going through my own major life transition, one that would take me from a life as a teacher and editor to this second chapter as a psychotherapist. I had heard the phrase many times in life but at that moment of change it resonated more deeply than ever before. Our lives are our stories, and they have chapters, episodes, plot twists... You might be feeling your story is changing, maybe you've just experienced the whole plot unravelling. Maybe you're ready to start again. Maybe you're too tired and scared to look at the next page.
What's your story? I was asked that question not too many years ago when I was going through my own major life transition, one that would take me from a life as a teacher and editor to this second chapter as a psychotherapist. I had heard the phrase many times in life but at that moment of change it resonated more deeply than ever before. Our lives are our stories, and they have chapters, episodes, plot twists... You might be feeling your story is changing, maybe you've just experienced the whole plot unravelling. Maybe you're ready to start again. Maybe you're too tired and scared to look at the next page.
Alison Kuiack with Advocating Hope
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7M (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel like life has become more about surviving each day than living each day? If you are here now, you recognize something in your life is not working and you need to try something different. My hope is to offer you a safe and compassionate place to explore your life from a new perspective. I am here to learn more about your journey and work collaboratively with you to explore other ways of managing the challenges you are experiencing.
Do you feel like life has become more about surviving each day than living each day? If you are here now, you recognize something in your life is not working and you need to try something different. My hope is to offer you a safe and compassionate place to explore your life from a new perspective. I am here to learn more about your journey and work collaboratively with you to explore other ways of managing the challenges you are experiencing.
Emily Techner | Neurodiversity | Anxiety | Emotion Regulation
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you intelligent, "type-A", with a million things always on the go? On the outside you appear to have "made it", but on the inside your anxiety is crippling. You wonder if you have ADHD, you're working on 100 things at once, never seeming to be able to slow down until you crash (and then beat yourself up for resting). You start to wonder if you're depressed. Why does it feel like you're on such a roller coaster of emotions? You've tried journaling, meditating, maybe even medication or therapy, but you still feel stuck. You know you need to "love yourself", but you don't know how to actually DO that.
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you intelligent, "type-A", with a million things always on the go? On the outside you appear to have "made it", but on the inside your anxiety is crippling. You wonder if you have ADHD, you're working on 100 things at once, never seeming to be able to slow down until you crash (and then beat yourself up for resting). You start to wonder if you're depressed. Why does it feel like you're on such a roller coaster of emotions? You've tried journaling, meditating, maybe even medication or therapy, but you still feel stuck. You know you need to "love yourself", but you don't know how to actually DO that.
See more therapy options for Kingston
Nearby Searches for Kingston
See More CounsellorsHow does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Kingston, ON
400+
Average cost per session
$150
Counsellors in Kingston, ON who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
83% | Depression |
79% | Stress |
78% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Self Esteem |
72% | Coping Skills |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
68% | Blue Cross |
56% | SunLife |
56% | Medavie Blue Cross |
How Counsellors in Kingston, ON see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
13% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Kingston?
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
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.
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.
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.
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.