Therapists in Mississauga, ON

Photo of Carolyn Anne Buhler - Carolyn Buhler- Social Worker & Psychotherapist, Registered Social Worker, MA CPSY, MSW, RSW
Carolyn Buhler- Social Worker & Psychotherapist
Registered Social Worker, MA CPSY, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5L
Accepting New Clients... If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, burnout, unhelpful patterns, relationship challenges, life transitions, self-worth, or direction, you’re not alone. With over 20 years of experience and Master’s degrees in both Counselling Psychology and Social Work, I offer a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Together, we’ll make sense of what you’re going through, build insight, and develop practical tools to help you move forward with greater clarity, resilience, and confidence.
Accepting New Clients... If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, burnout, unhelpful patterns, relationship challenges, life transitions, self-worth, or direction, you’re not alone. With over 20 years of experience and Master’s degrees in both Counselling Psychology and Social Work, I offer a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Together, we’ll make sense of what you’re going through, build insight, and develop practical tools to help you move forward with greater clarity, resilience, and confidence.
(365) 654-6715 View (365) 654-6715
Photo of Nabeela Marzook, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Nabeela Marzook
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Mississauga, ON L5N
Nabeela is experienced in providing psychotherapy and psychoeducation for clients with serious physical and mental health challenges. Nabeela is trained in variety of counseling modalities, including Trauma Informed Therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative and Brief Therapy, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Nabeela has dedicated her career to supporting children, youth, families, and adults of various diverse backgrounds and different life experiences.
Nabeela is experienced in providing psychotherapy and psychoeducation for clients with serious physical and mental health challenges. Nabeela is trained in variety of counseling modalities, including Trauma Informed Therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative and Brief Therapy, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Nabeela has dedicated her career to supporting children, youth, families, and adults of various diverse backgrounds and different life experiences.
(289) 512-2933 View (289) 512-2933
Photo of Paitra Surerus- Marsh, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Paitra Surerus- Marsh
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
6 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5R
You have found this site as you are taking the first step towards change.The first step towards therapy is often a scary & difficult one. I can provide you with a confidential relationship based largely on trust & acceptance in order to help you explore your issues in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am trained to help you make sense of your issues so that you can learn and grow from them. I want to help you reconnect to yourself and in turn lead a more fulfilling & enjoyable life. I believe in using an eclectic approach that integrates ideas from various frameworks.
You have found this site as you are taking the first step towards change.The first step towards therapy is often a scary & difficult one. I can provide you with a confidential relationship based largely on trust & acceptance in order to help you explore your issues in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am trained to help you make sense of your issues so that you can learn and grow from them. I want to help you reconnect to yourself and in turn lead a more fulfilling & enjoyable life. I believe in using an eclectic approach that integrates ideas from various frameworks.
(289) 814-1925 View (289) 814-1925
Photo of Fatemeh Heshmati, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CPT
Fatemeh Heshmati
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CPT
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Is your family or relationship stuck in a cycle of high conflict? When trauma, neurodiversity, or special needs are added to the mix, the pressure on couples and children can feel overwhelming. I specialize in helping families, couples, and individuals navigate these complex intersections to find stability. As a trauma specialist and family reunification therapist, I help you move from reactive cycles toward proactive connection. I also support individuals on independent journeys of self-development, providing a dedicated space to break personal patterns and rediscover your identity, regardless of your family status.
Is your family or relationship stuck in a cycle of high conflict? When trauma, neurodiversity, or special needs are added to the mix, the pressure on couples and children can feel overwhelming. I specialize in helping families, couples, and individuals navigate these complex intersections to find stability. As a trauma specialist and family reunification therapist, I help you move from reactive cycles toward proactive connection. I also support individuals on independent journeys of self-development, providing a dedicated space to break personal patterns and rediscover your identity, regardless of your family status.
(289) 805-3580 View (289) 805-3580
Photo of Haley Quitt, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Haley Quitt
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
I work with individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. Many are navigating anxiety, communication challenges, or life transitions and want to better understand their patterns, feel more grounded, and create more meaningful, secure connections.
I work with individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. Many are navigating anxiety, communication challenges, or life transitions and want to better understand their patterns, feel more grounded, and create more meaningful, secure connections.
(289) 432-1592 View (289) 432-1592
Photo of Anne Marie Mikhail, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Anne Marie Mikhail
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5G
Culturally-Competent Therapy & Psychoeducational Assessments. You find yourself with never-ending "to-do" lists. You can’t sleep at night because you worry about work, parenting, or your relationship. You feel at a loss on how to help your child, who’s struggling at school. And you’re tired of constantly getting phone calls about your child’s behaviour at school. You think to yourself, “I can’t do it all,” and you often ignore your own needs. You do everything you can to make the family run, which exhausts you and causes things to slip through the cracks at work and at home. If you’re ready for support, you’re in the right place.
Culturally-Competent Therapy & Psychoeducational Assessments. You find yourself with never-ending "to-do" lists. You can’t sleep at night because you worry about work, parenting, or your relationship. You feel at a loss on how to help your child, who’s struggling at school. And you’re tired of constantly getting phone calls about your child’s behaviour at school. You think to yourself, “I can’t do it all,” and you often ignore your own needs. You do everything you can to make the family run, which exhausts you and causes things to slip through the cracks at work and at home. If you’re ready for support, you’re in the right place.
(365) 661-4424 View (365) 661-4424
Photo of Dr. Natasha Ramzan, Psychologist, DClin, Psy, CPsych
Dr. Natasha Ramzan
Psychologist, DClin, Psy, CPsych
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5C
If trust, peace, or understanding is slipping in your relationship, don’t wait until it’s too late. If you are reading this, you didn’t come here because of one argument. You came because the distance, the tension, and the ache have been building for months, sometimes years. Maybe you have tried talking or reaching out to your family, but it turns into misunderstandings or more chaos. Maybe one of you shuts down, and the other feels alone in the relationship. Maybe the fights are getting louder… or the silence is getting scarier. There is hope for your relationship, even if you can’t see it right now.
If trust, peace, or understanding is slipping in your relationship, don’t wait until it’s too late. If you are reading this, you didn’t come here because of one argument. You came because the distance, the tension, and the ache have been building for months, sometimes years. Maybe you have tried talking or reaching out to your family, but it turns into misunderstandings or more chaos. Maybe one of you shuts down, and the other feels alone in the relationship. Maybe the fights are getting louder… or the silence is getting scarier. There is hope for your relationship, even if you can’t see it right now.
(647) 955-3991 View (647) 955-3991
Photo of Paula Francesca Galli, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, HBSc
Paula Francesca Galli
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, HBSc
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5H
Are you looking to change your life? Do you feel consumed by anxieties and fears? Are you unsure of how to live a purposeful, fulfilled, and happy life? Do you want to feel good about the person you see when you look in the mirror? Are you finally ready to reach your goals? Do you want to feel peace around food? Do you feel like you don’t know who you are anymore since you became a mother? Are you yearning for self-love? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I encourage you to reach out to me and see if we would be a good fit for one another.
Are you looking to change your life? Do you feel consumed by anxieties and fears? Are you unsure of how to live a purposeful, fulfilled, and happy life? Do you want to feel good about the person you see when you look in the mirror? Are you finally ready to reach your goals? Do you want to feel peace around food? Do you feel like you don’t know who you are anymore since you became a mother? Are you yearning for self-love? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I encourage you to reach out to me and see if we would be a good fit for one another.
(289) 819-1225 View (289) 819-1225
Photo of Adnan Zoubi - Centre For Psychodynamic Insights, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, HBA, RP
Centre For Psychodynamic Insights
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, HBA, RP
Online Only
The Centre for Psychodynamic Insights is a virtual clinic specializing in psychodynamic psychotherapy. This approach explores the root causes of symptoms by uncovering and understanding underlying emotions through evidence-based treatment. Through collaborative dialogue, we examine unconscious thoughts and emotions shaped from childhood to the present. We work to relieve symptoms by understanding how these patterns affect current experiences, and create targeted strategies for meaningful change long-term.
The Centre for Psychodynamic Insights is a virtual clinic specializing in psychodynamic psychotherapy. This approach explores the root causes of symptoms by uncovering and understanding underlying emotions through evidence-based treatment. Through collaborative dialogue, we examine unconscious thoughts and emotions shaped from childhood to the present. We work to relieve symptoms by understanding how these patterns affect current experiences, and create targeted strategies for meaningful change long-term.
(437) 907-6850 View (437) 907-6850
Photo of Raisa Mahru, Counsellor, MBA , MACP
Raisa Mahru
Counsellor, MBA , MACP
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B
I believe that even in the most difficult experiences, there is potential to find meaning and reclaim our stories. My goal as a therapist is to offer a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard, find hope, and build the confidence to move forward—wherever your healing journey takes you. Together, we’ll explore your goals and find an approach that feels right for you. I work from a trauma-informed, client-centered lens, always honoring your unique path and pace. I’m known by those close to me as someone who takes the road less travelled—and I understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate life’s challenges on your own.
I believe that even in the most difficult experiences, there is potential to find meaning and reclaim our stories. My goal as a therapist is to offer a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard, find hope, and build the confidence to move forward—wherever your healing journey takes you. Together, we’ll explore your goals and find an approach that feels right for you. I work from a trauma-informed, client-centered lens, always honoring your unique path and pace. I’m known by those close to me as someone who takes the road less travelled—and I understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate life’s challenges on your own.
(365) 517-3291 View (365) 517-3291
Photo of Julia Tran, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Julia Tran
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Mississauga, ON L5J
If you are curious about exploring anxiety/ stress/ burnout, developmental and intergenerational trauma and family/relationship dynamics, this is a great place to begin! I am especially passionate about supporting individuals who wish to understand how their childhood experiences shape their present-day lives. In our work together, I aim to create a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore the underlying causes of your current struggles and challenges. I also focus on integrating all aspects of your life, including cultural influences, family dynamics, personal identity, interests, and aspirations.
If you are curious about exploring anxiety/ stress/ burnout, developmental and intergenerational trauma and family/relationship dynamics, this is a great place to begin! I am especially passionate about supporting individuals who wish to understand how their childhood experiences shape their present-day lives. In our work together, I aim to create a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore the underlying causes of your current struggles and challenges. I also focus on integrating all aspects of your life, including cultural influences, family dynamics, personal identity, interests, and aspirations.
(289) 212-9083 View (289) 212-9083
Photo of Shelley Rush, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Shelley Rush
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
Welcome! I am Shelley Rush a Registered Psychotherapist and Director of Rush & Associates. I am committed to collaboratively assessing your current situation. My goal is to help individuals, couples and groups work towards empowering themselves in the process of change and understanding. I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. I am trained in CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness and DBT. I use an integrated model helping you to develop an individual plan that suits your needs.
Welcome! I am Shelley Rush a Registered Psychotherapist and Director of Rush & Associates. I am committed to collaboratively assessing your current situation. My goal is to help individuals, couples and groups work towards empowering themselves in the process of change and understanding. I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. I am trained in CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness and DBT. I use an integrated model helping you to develop an individual plan that suits your needs.
(289) 769-9492 View (289) 769-9492
Photo of Cassandre Quan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Cassandre Quan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with young adults, adults, elders and women who feel stuck in cycles they’re ready to break — whether it’s generational trauma, family conflict, relationship struggles, or the weight of anxiety and self-doubt. Many come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from themselves, or unsure of how to move forward. Their goals often center around wanting to feel more grounded, build healthier coping skills, set boundaries, and reconnect with a stronger sense of self. Above all, they want to feel seen, understood, and empowered to create a life that feels authentic to them.
I work with young adults, adults, elders and women who feel stuck in cycles they’re ready to break — whether it’s generational trauma, family conflict, relationship struggles, or the weight of anxiety and self-doubt. Many come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from themselves, or unsure of how to move forward. Their goals often center around wanting to feel more grounded, build healthier coping skills, set boundaries, and reconnect with a stronger sense of self. Above all, they want to feel seen, understood, and empowered to create a life that feels authentic to them.
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Photo of Sharon M-Snowball - BoldStep Therapy - ADHD, Burnout & Couples, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
BoldStep Therapy - ADHD, Burnout & Couples
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
7 Endorsed
Online Only
At 2am, your mind races — deadlines, decisions, and expectations pulling you every way. Outwardly calm, inside ADHD, burnout, anxiety, or relationship stress leave you overwhelmed and drained. Perfectionism, mental fatigue, and cultural pressures weigh heavily, making you feel disconnected and unheard. You want focus, energy, and meaningful connection — a life that feels intentional and truly yours. I understand the quiet burden of high expectations and cultural transitions. I support high-functioning adults, immigrants, professionals, multicultural couples, and parents managing ADHD, burnout, and relationship challenges.
At 2am, your mind races — deadlines, decisions, and expectations pulling you every way. Outwardly calm, inside ADHD, burnout, anxiety, or relationship stress leave you overwhelmed and drained. Perfectionism, mental fatigue, and cultural pressures weigh heavily, making you feel disconnected and unheard. You want focus, energy, and meaningful connection — a life that feels intentional and truly yours. I understand the quiet burden of high expectations and cultural transitions. I support high-functioning adults, immigrants, professionals, multicultural couples, and parents managing ADHD, burnout, and relationship challenges.
(365) 799-7163 View (365) 799-7163
Photo of Mr. Prashant Bhatt, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MD
Mr. Prashant Bhatt
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MD
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
I practice Integrative Sex and Couples Therapy, Grief counselling for persons navigating loss. Psychotherapy is one of the ways for self-awareness. Others could be being Meditation, Walking, Tai Chi, Yoga. I am a member of Institute of Meditation and Psychotherapy and have done Retreats at Manresa Pickering and Barre Centre of Buddhist Studies, Massachusetts. Meditation practices have been a way of life first introduced to me the Himalayas in 1970s. Having lived on the ground in the Libyan Arab Spring- 2011-I know first hand- the reality of the dictum- All the wounds of war are not seen.
I practice Integrative Sex and Couples Therapy, Grief counselling for persons navigating loss. Psychotherapy is one of the ways for self-awareness. Others could be being Meditation, Walking, Tai Chi, Yoga. I am a member of Institute of Meditation and Psychotherapy and have done Retreats at Manresa Pickering and Barre Centre of Buddhist Studies, Massachusetts. Meditation practices have been a way of life first introduced to me the Himalayas in 1970s. Having lived on the ground in the Libyan Arab Spring- 2011-I know first hand- the reality of the dictum- All the wounds of war are not seen.
(289) 805-3579 View (289) 805-3579
Photo of Sylvie Carr - Journey Restorative Mediation, Pre-Licensed Professional, CYC, FMed
Journey Restorative Mediation
Pre-Licensed Professional, CYC, FMed
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5L
As a Family Mediator I specialize in helping families navigate the separation and divorce process. I support parents who are struggling to resolve Custody and Access matters and help them create positive Custody and Access Schedules and Parenting Plans. My goal is to provide a positive transition from a two parent home to a single parent home, always keeping in mind the best interest of the child. I discuss with both parents the importance of healthy parent / child boundaries, thereby avoiding potential Parental Alienation. For cases of Parental Alienation I provided Restorative Mediation sessions to support families.
As a Family Mediator I specialize in helping families navigate the separation and divorce process. I support parents who are struggling to resolve Custody and Access matters and help them create positive Custody and Access Schedules and Parenting Plans. My goal is to provide a positive transition from a two parent home to a single parent home, always keeping in mind the best interest of the child. I discuss with both parents the importance of healthy parent / child boundaries, thereby avoiding potential Parental Alienation. For cases of Parental Alienation I provided Restorative Mediation sessions to support families.
(289) 302-7661 View (289) 302-7661
Photo of Amelia Jones - Amelia Jones | ADHD | Trauma | Relationships, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Amelia Jones | ADHD | Trauma | Relationships
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
May 2026 - Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, people-pleasing and emotion regulation? Do you feel like you’re not quite good enough, you can never actually reach your goals, or you just can’t seem to do “life” right? Maybe you experienced trauma from growing up in a household with emotionally immature parents. Maybe you have late-diagnosed (or undiagnosed) ADHD, and chronic feelings of being “defective” loom over you constantly. You need a therapist who will help you actually PROCESS what's going on, not just listen. You need somebody who can hold you accountable to making real change in your life, and call you on your shit.
May 2026 - Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, people-pleasing and emotion regulation? Do you feel like you’re not quite good enough, you can never actually reach your goals, or you just can’t seem to do “life” right? Maybe you experienced trauma from growing up in a household with emotionally immature parents. Maybe you have late-diagnosed (or undiagnosed) ADHD, and chronic feelings of being “defective” loom over you constantly. You need a therapist who will help you actually PROCESS what's going on, not just listen. You need somebody who can hold you accountable to making real change in your life, and call you on your shit.
(705) 710-9971 View (705) 710-9971
Photo of Alex Nicholls - Alexander Nicholls - Art Therapy & TTRPG Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist, DTATI, RP
Alexander Nicholls - Art Therapy & TTRPG Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, DTATI, RP
5 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N
Explore YOU through Art & Games! If you want to engage your imagination and creativity to make a positive change in your own life, relationships, and the communities around you - this could be the type of therapy you've been looking for! Art Therapy & Game Therapy are designed to support people of all ages and stages of life, as well as diverse populations. Art & game therapy can provide new perspectives, shift established patterns of behaviour, foster community and new relationships - all while providing insight and understanding. Why not imagine a better future for yourself - all while being excited, engaged, and having FUN!
Explore YOU through Art & Games! If you want to engage your imagination and creativity to make a positive change in your own life, relationships, and the communities around you - this could be the type of therapy you've been looking for! Art Therapy & Game Therapy are designed to support people of all ages and stages of life, as well as diverse populations. Art & game therapy can provide new perspectives, shift established patterns of behaviour, foster community and new relationships - all while providing insight and understanding. Why not imagine a better future for yourself - all while being excited, engaged, and having FUN!
(365) 363-0744 View (365) 363-0744
Photo of Nirmala Sharma - Seva Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Seva Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Mississauga, ON L5B
I am a Registered Psychotherapist supporting individuals and couples who are navigating mental health issues, communication and conflict in their relationship. I believe that the answers you seek already exist within you. What is often missing is a supportive and compassionate environment that allows your inner wisdom and strength to emerge. Together, we will work toward recognizing your inner resilience, learning to trust your instincts, and developing healthier ways to manage challenges as they arise. My role is to help you honor and accept all parts of yourself, while cultivating a non-judgmental awareness of the present moment.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist supporting individuals and couples who are navigating mental health issues, communication and conflict in their relationship. I believe that the answers you seek already exist within you. What is often missing is a supportive and compassionate environment that allows your inner wisdom and strength to emerge. Together, we will work toward recognizing your inner resilience, learning to trust your instincts, and developing healthier ways to manage challenges as they arise. My role is to help you honor and accept all parts of yourself, while cultivating a non-judgmental awareness of the present moment.
(289) 985-1317 View (289) 985-1317
Photo of Ghada Hassan, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MBBS, IFHP
Ghada Hassan
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MBBS, IFHP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Registered with the IFHP and accepting new clients. Have you been dealing with big changes in your life, trauma that are causing stress, anxiety, sadness, or feeling overwhelmed? I'm here to empower you by working together to overcome these challenges and teach you new ways of thinking to make positive changes in your life. My safe, non-judgmental space is here to support you on your journey towards healing and a better quality of life. As an immigrant Muslim woman who has lived in multiple multicultural countries, and my unique background as a doctor greatly impact how I can support you.
Registered with the IFHP and accepting new clients. Have you been dealing with big changes in your life, trauma that are causing stress, anxiety, sadness, or feeling overwhelmed? I'm here to empower you by working together to overcome these challenges and teach you new ways of thinking to make positive changes in your life. My safe, non-judgmental space is here to support you on your journey towards healing and a better quality of life. As an immigrant Muslim woman who has lived in multiple multicultural countries, and my unique background as a doctor greatly impact how I can support you.
(437) 747-4640 View (437) 747-4640

See more therapy options for Mississauga

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Mississauga, ON

1.000+

Average cost per session

$164

Counsellors in Mississauga, ON who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
94% Social Anxiety
94% Health Anxiety
94% Driving Anxiety
88% Depression
84% Self Esteem
83% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% SunLife
83% Manulife
81% Green Shield Canada

How Counsellors in Mississauga, ON see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Mississauga?

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.