Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Phillip Desroches, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Phillip Desroches
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K4A
In this therapeutic space your voice holds significance, shaping our collaborative journey towards mental health and wellness. I aim to cultivate an environment where everyone, regardless of background or identity, feels valued and heard. While supporting you through challenges like anxiety, burnout, and depression, I offer a compassionate hand to navigate these complexities. Whether it's work/school stress, interpersonal struggles, or enhancing your skills, I tailor my approach to your needs, gently guiding you through discomfort towards growth. Together, let's explore if our therapeutic connection aligns with your journey ahead.
In this therapeutic space your voice holds significance, shaping our collaborative journey towards mental health and wellness. I aim to cultivate an environment where everyone, regardless of background or identity, feels valued and heard. While supporting you through challenges like anxiety, burnout, and depression, I offer a compassionate hand to navigate these complexities. Whether it's work/school stress, interpersonal struggles, or enhancing your skills, I tailor my approach to your needs, gently guiding you through discomfort towards growth. Together, let's explore if our therapeutic connection aligns with your journey ahead.
(343) 453-5188 View (343) 453-5188
Photo of Maaike de Graaf, Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BSc
Maaike de Graaf
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BSc
Ottawa, ON K2A
As a Psychotherapist, I strive to provide a safe, judgement-free, compassionate and growth-focused space for my clients, where their voices can be heard and encouragement is given to explore new ways of relating to difficult thoughts, feelings, memories and experiences. I have 14 years of extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults facing diverse challenges including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation. As a Queer therapist, I am passionate about working with fellow Queer/2SLGBTQ+ folks and allies, and love supporting clients throughout their identity journey.
As a Psychotherapist, I strive to provide a safe, judgement-free, compassionate and growth-focused space for my clients, where their voices can be heard and encouragement is given to explore new ways of relating to difficult thoughts, feelings, memories and experiences. I have 14 years of extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults facing diverse challenges including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation. As a Queer therapist, I am passionate about working with fellow Queer/2SLGBTQ+ folks and allies, and love supporting clients throughout their identity journey.
(613) 704-4176 View (613) 704-4176
Photo of Lacasse Counselling - Lacasse Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist
Lacasse Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
We believe that every individual and relationship is unique and deserves personalized care tailored to their specific needs and goals. Our holistic approach to therapy combines evidence-based techniques with the art of human connection, empowering you to overcome current obstacles and unlock your full potential. We welcome individuals and couples from all walks of life; we embrace diversity and promote inclusivity. Our techniques aim to bring about fundamental structural changes in how individuals function, thereby paving the way for lasting and positive change from within.
We believe that every individual and relationship is unique and deserves personalized care tailored to their specific needs and goals. Our holistic approach to therapy combines evidence-based techniques with the art of human connection, empowering you to overcome current obstacles and unlock your full potential. We welcome individuals and couples from all walks of life; we embrace diversity and promote inclusivity. Our techniques aim to bring about fundamental structural changes in how individuals function, thereby paving the way for lasting and positive change from within.
(613) 703-8817 View (613) 703-8817
Photo of Zsuzsa Suzane Grandpierre, Registered Psychotherapist, MA(Ed), RP
Zsuzsa Suzane Grandpierre
Registered Psychotherapist, MA(Ed), RP
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, ADHD coach, mindfulness instructor, and clinical supervisor. I specialize in treating adults (30+) with ADHD symptoms; women in (peri) menopause struggling with memory and mood changes; anxiety and mood disorders; and providing support to individuals, couples, and parents affected by these challenges. My therapeutic approach combines ACT, IFS, & CBT and trauma-based psychotherapy, mindfulness & self-compassion training, executive functions skills development, and coaching strategies to facilitate the development of self-acceptance, supportive inner talk, and showing up for yourself and others.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, ADHD coach, mindfulness instructor, and clinical supervisor. I specialize in treating adults (30+) with ADHD symptoms; women in (peri) menopause struggling with memory and mood changes; anxiety and mood disorders; and providing support to individuals, couples, and parents affected by these challenges. My therapeutic approach combines ACT, IFS, & CBT and trauma-based psychotherapy, mindfulness & self-compassion training, executive functions skills development, and coaching strategies to facilitate the development of self-acceptance, supportive inner talk, and showing up for yourself and others.
(855) 464-0567 View (855) 464-0567
Photo of Rashida Collins, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Rashida Collins
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in all forms of trauma, especially racial as well as stress and anxiety reduction, transitional issues, spiritual transformation, and difficulty managing negative self talk. Every person deserves to know what if feels like to be valued and connected internally and externally. Within all us all, there is a capacity for awareness, change, and healing. Through compassion, collaboration and guidance, I assist my clients in understanding and changing their blockages in their hearts that hold them back from the life they desire. Retelling your story and assisting you on your journey is part of the work I provide.
I specialize in all forms of trauma, especially racial as well as stress and anxiety reduction, transitional issues, spiritual transformation, and difficulty managing negative self talk. Every person deserves to know what if feels like to be valued and connected internally and externally. Within all us all, there is a capacity for awareness, change, and healing. Through compassion, collaboration and guidance, I assist my clients in understanding and changing their blockages in their hearts that hold them back from the life they desire. Retelling your story and assisting you on your journey is part of the work I provide.
(343) 633-3707 View (343) 633-3707
Photo of Lauren McCarley, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BSc, MA
Lauren McCarley
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BSc, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're struggling with anxiety/panic, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the pressure to please people, or the exhausting pursuit of perfection, you don't have to face these struggles alone. Discovering the path to your authentic self can feel overwhelming, especially when you constantly battle with low self-esteem and feeling like you are "not enough". I am here to walk alongside you on your journey of self-discovery, where every twist and turn reveals new insights and opportunities for growth. You have already taken the courageous step of seeking help, and that alone is a testament to your strength and resiliency.
If you're struggling with anxiety/panic, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the pressure to please people, or the exhausting pursuit of perfection, you don't have to face these struggles alone. Discovering the path to your authentic self can feel overwhelming, especially when you constantly battle with low self-esteem and feeling like you are "not enough". I am here to walk alongside you on your journey of self-discovery, where every twist and turn reveals new insights and opportunities for growth. You have already taken the courageous step of seeking help, and that alone is a testament to your strength and resiliency.
(289) 272-5457 View (289) 272-5457
Photo of Zhongjie Bao, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PhD, MA
Zhongjie Bao
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PhD, MA
Ottawa, ON K2A
Hi! I am Zhongjie, you can also call me Ben. As a first-gen immigrant from China with lived experience as an international student at both the undergraduate and graduate level, my ultimate goal is to sit with you, human to human, and better understand what brings you to therapy so that we can work towards your personal and unique goals together. I take a humanistic-experiential approach to therapy using some principles from Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT). Approaches aside, it is more important that you are heard and understood in our sessions.
Hi! I am Zhongjie, you can also call me Ben. As a first-gen immigrant from China with lived experience as an international student at both the undergraduate and graduate level, my ultimate goal is to sit with you, human to human, and better understand what brings you to therapy so that we can work towards your personal and unique goals together. I take a humanistic-experiential approach to therapy using some principles from Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT). Approaches aside, it is more important that you are heard and understood in our sessions.
(226) 270-7200 View (226) 270-7200
Photo of Kirstine Postma - Centre for Mental & Psychological Health(CMAP), Psychologist
The Centre for Mental and Psychological Health has been established to bring international quality psychological treatments to our clients without compromise. We are a multidisciplinary team of Psychotherapists, Psychologists, Social Workers and Psychiatrists who offer assessment, diagnostic consultation, psychotherapy and wider psychosocial care services, including liaison with other healthcare professionals. We are committed to providing you with timely access to a range of evidence-based psychotherapies including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and others, as determined by your need. We also provide training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies through our partner organization, Unified CBT Academy. (https://unifiedcbt.com/)
The Centre for Mental and Psychological Health has been established to bring international quality psychological treatments to our clients without compromise. We are a multidisciplinary team of Psychotherapists, Psychologists, Social Workers and Psychiatrists who offer assessment, diagnostic consultation, psychotherapy and wider psychosocial care services, including liaison with other healthcare professionals. We are committed to providing you with timely access to a range of evidence-based psychotherapies including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and others, as determined by your need. We also provide training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies through our partner organization, Unified CBT Academy. (https://unifiedcbt.com/)
(613) 482-0133 View (613) 482-0133
Photo of Susannah Rachel Dalfen, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Susannah Rachel Dalfen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Ottawa, ON K2P
After many years of meeting individuals and couples and families in my office, I’m now meeting with people on various virtual platforms. I’ve specialized in treating people and family members dealing with relationship as well as addiction issues.
After many years of meeting individuals and couples and families in my office, I’m now meeting with people on various virtual platforms. I’ve specialized in treating people and family members dealing with relationship as well as addiction issues.
(833) 621-4801 View (833) 621-4801
Photo of Mia L'Heureux, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Mia L'Heureux
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
Life can present us with many challenges. Through clinical and personal experience, I've gained a deep appreciation for what it is to be human. I love being able to connect on a human level and share psycho-education and skills to empower you to have self-compassion and resilience through whatever you may be experiencing. Because suffering is a part of the human experience, but we can choose how we move through it. I specialize in providing psychotherapy to individuals 18+ experiencing: Burnout / Stress, Trauma or PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Challenging life transitions, Lack of sense of meaning and identity.
Life can present us with many challenges. Through clinical and personal experience, I've gained a deep appreciation for what it is to be human. I love being able to connect on a human level and share psycho-education and skills to empower you to have self-compassion and resilience through whatever you may be experiencing. Because suffering is a part of the human experience, but we can choose how we move through it. I specialize in providing psychotherapy to individuals 18+ experiencing: Burnout / Stress, Trauma or PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Challenging life transitions, Lack of sense of meaning and identity.
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Photo of Leigh Anne Berry - Leigh Berry, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RHN
Leigh Berry
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RHN
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
Overwhelmed, anxious and oh so tired? How many hours have you spent doing what you don't want to be doing? Or spinning in anxiety and fear about all the unknowns? Lost in the hustle of everyday life - fighting to get it all done, and caring for everyone else, all while trying to fix your feelings and free yourself from the voice in your head telling you you aren't good enough. Not to mention cleaning up all the messes and keeping your houseplants alive. It's exhausting! Climb out of the fog of the have-to or should-dos, and everyone else's needs. No more gripping, no more pushing or resisting.
Overwhelmed, anxious and oh so tired? How many hours have you spent doing what you don't want to be doing? Or spinning in anxiety and fear about all the unknowns? Lost in the hustle of everyday life - fighting to get it all done, and caring for everyone else, all while trying to fix your feelings and free yourself from the voice in your head telling you you aren't good enough. Not to mention cleaning up all the messes and keeping your houseplants alive. It's exhausting! Climb out of the fog of the have-to or should-dos, and everyone else's needs. No more gripping, no more pushing or resisting.
(343) 342-2283 View (343) 342-2283
Photo of Cathy Shaw, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Cathy Shaw
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J
I am committed to providing client centered support to help clients live their lives more fully. I strongly believe in the dignity of every person which informs my values of compassion, non-judgment and client autonomy in the incorporation of faith, and therapeutic techniques in therapy. If you're someone who's faith is an integrated part of your life and who is seeking a therapist who can facilitate conversation around spirituality while addressing your mental health concerns we may be a good fit. You have autonomy on how spirituality is integrated in our sessions.
I am committed to providing client centered support to help clients live their lives more fully. I strongly believe in the dignity of every person which informs my values of compassion, non-judgment and client autonomy in the incorporation of faith, and therapeutic techniques in therapy. If you're someone who's faith is an integrated part of your life and who is seeking a therapist who can facilitate conversation around spirituality while addressing your mental health concerns we may be a good fit. You have autonomy on how spirituality is integrated in our sessions.
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Photo of Ryan Wyatt, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Ryan Wyatt
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and hold a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Ottawa as well as a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University. My five years working in education helped me realize the passion I have for working with others to overcome challenges and improve their lived experiences. My lived experiences and interactions with others have made me a firm believer in the strength and resiliency of people. It is our responses to these challenges that can help foster healthy thinking patterns, behaviours and a belief in our own strengths.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and hold a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Ottawa as well as a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University. My five years working in education helped me realize the passion I have for working with others to overcome challenges and improve their lived experiences. My lived experiences and interactions with others have made me a firm believer in the strength and resiliency of people. It is our responses to these challenges that can help foster healthy thinking patterns, behaviours and a belief in our own strengths.
(343) 312-7496 View (343) 312-7496
Photo of Sara Coyle, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP, DDP
Sara Coyle
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP, DDP
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
Not accepting new clients
I support youth and adults with processing and healing from trauma, stressors, and challenging life experiences. These stressors show up in our bodies in several ways which may include anxiety, chronic pain, health difficulties, sleep disturbance, etc. or just not feeling yourself. The folks I support may have experienced childhood trauma or attachment difficulties, or they may be experiencing increased anxiety and stress due to work, relationships, school or more recent challenging life experiences. I strongly believe in the youth’s caregiver(s) involvement in therapy process to better support their youth outside therapy sessions.
I support youth and adults with processing and healing from trauma, stressors, and challenging life experiences. These stressors show up in our bodies in several ways which may include anxiety, chronic pain, health difficulties, sleep disturbance, etc. or just not feeling yourself. The folks I support may have experienced childhood trauma or attachment difficulties, or they may be experiencing increased anxiety and stress due to work, relationships, school or more recent challenging life experiences. I strongly believe in the youth’s caregiver(s) involvement in therapy process to better support their youth outside therapy sessions.
(289) 212-6294 View (289) 212-6294
Photo of Sj Vriend, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Sj Vriend
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
At Earthbound Psychotherapy, it is my goal to create a working relationship that feels safe, collaborative, and effective for you. I support individuals seeking a more positive relationship with themselves and others, to cope with stress and change, and to cultivate lives more congruent to their needs and values. I often work with LGBT2SQIA+ adults and those who are exploring their gender, sexuality, or relationship preferences (I am kink/poly-friendly). My approach is informed by clinical experience and also lived experience as a queer and nonbinary person. I approach the challenges you are facing with curiosity and compassion.
At Earthbound Psychotherapy, it is my goal to create a working relationship that feels safe, collaborative, and effective for you. I support individuals seeking a more positive relationship with themselves and others, to cope with stress and change, and to cultivate lives more congruent to their needs and values. I often work with LGBT2SQIA+ adults and those who are exploring their gender, sexuality, or relationship preferences (I am kink/poly-friendly). My approach is informed by clinical experience and also lived experience as a queer and nonbinary person. I approach the challenges you are facing with curiosity and compassion.
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Photo of Nicole Lewis, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC, CCDP
Nicole Lewis
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC, CCDP
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J
I aspire to help people realize their ideal relationships by helping clients better understand the desires that underlie their own views of what creates healthy and fulfilling relationships. I believe relationships form the foundation of life and can provide both emotional and physical benefits to our wellbeing. I work with individuals to help address relational challenges, improve communication between partners, explore improved intimate connection, and increase a sense of fulfillment.
I aspire to help people realize their ideal relationships by helping clients better understand the desires that underlie their own views of what creates healthy and fulfilling relationships. I believe relationships form the foundation of life and can provide both emotional and physical benefits to our wellbeing. I work with individuals to help address relational challenges, improve communication between partners, explore improved intimate connection, and increase a sense of fulfillment.
(343) 313-2345 View (343) 313-2345
Photo of Alana Brinson, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Alana Brinson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
We all deserve to feel at peace in our body and truly love the skin we are in. Do you worry over your body, exercise, or what you eat? Does your harsh inner voice control your life? Maybe you are anxious and overwhelmed, struggling to manage stress and find a work/life balance? If so, you don’t have to continue experiencing these daily struggles, and I am here to help. I am passionate about helping individuals like you break free of the hold disordered eating, body image, low self-esteem, anxiety and stress have on you.
We all deserve to feel at peace in our body and truly love the skin we are in. Do you worry over your body, exercise, or what you eat? Does your harsh inner voice control your life? Maybe you are anxious and overwhelmed, struggling to manage stress and find a work/life balance? If so, you don’t have to continue experiencing these daily struggles, and I am here to help. I am passionate about helping individuals like you break free of the hold disordered eating, body image, low self-esteem, anxiety and stress have on you.
(343) 313-0436 View (343) 313-0436
Photo of Siovone Rene Bourgeois, Registered Social Worker, MEd, MSW , RSW
Siovone Rene Bourgeois
Registered Social Worker, MEd, MSW , RSW
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
Navigating relationships in today’s face paced and demanding world can be very challenging. Today’s couples face increased financial and mental health concerns as they try raising families and or strengthening their own relationships and following their individual dreams. I have worked with couples of all age ranges, and diverse backgrounds to help them reconnect and rebuild their relationships after facing life’s daily stressors, addiction, infidelity and frequent absences of a spouse due to deployments. I am also very passionate about helping adults who struggle with trauma either from military service or family or chronic trauma.
Navigating relationships in today’s face paced and demanding world can be very challenging. Today’s couples face increased financial and mental health concerns as they try raising families and or strengthening their own relationships and following their individual dreams. I have worked with couples of all age ranges, and diverse backgrounds to help them reconnect and rebuild their relationships after facing life’s daily stressors, addiction, infidelity and frequent absences of a spouse due to deployments. I am also very passionate about helping adults who struggle with trauma either from military service or family or chronic trauma.
(343) 321-0281 View (343) 321-0281
Photo of Celine Loiselle, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Celine Loiselle
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Ottawa, ON K2P
With a deep understanding of the impact that stress, anxiety, and emotional pain have on our lives, I use a trauma-informed approach to help you make sense of your challenges, build resilience, return to your authenticity, and find lasting healing. Drawing from the latest research in neuroscience, I help you to identify repetitive thoughts, beliefs, and relational patterns, and, bring understanding to your current coping strategies. Through integration of the nervous system, we create the possibility for new neural pathways and new ways of responding.
With a deep understanding of the impact that stress, anxiety, and emotional pain have on our lives, I use a trauma-informed approach to help you make sense of your challenges, build resilience, return to your authenticity, and find lasting healing. Drawing from the latest research in neuroscience, I help you to identify repetitive thoughts, beliefs, and relational patterns, and, bring understanding to your current coping strategies. Through integration of the nervous system, we create the possibility for new neural pathways and new ways of responding.
(343) 501-1246 View (343) 501-1246
Photo of Catherine Dwyer, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Catherine Dwyer
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed with stress, chronically exhausted and on the verge of burnout? Do you feel like you’re stuck in fight/flight or shutdown mode? Are you experiencing anger, anxiety, depression and/or relying too much on alcohol or other substances to cope? Are you struggling with centering your own needs and desires, or maintaining balance in your life? Are you a helping professional or caregiver? If so, you may benefit from speaking to a professional who specializes in treating stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, addiction, empathic strain/compassion fatigue, trauma exposure and secondary traumatic stress.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with stress, chronically exhausted and on the verge of burnout? Do you feel like you’re stuck in fight/flight or shutdown mode? Are you experiencing anger, anxiety, depression and/or relying too much on alcohol or other substances to cope? Are you struggling with centering your own needs and desires, or maintaining balance in your life? Are you a helping professional or caregiver? If so, you may benefit from speaking to a professional who specializes in treating stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, addiction, empathic strain/compassion fatigue, trauma exposure and secondary traumatic stress.
(343) 305-1119 View (343) 305-1119

See more therapy options for Ottawa

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Ottawa, ON

2,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Counsellors in Ottawa, ON who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
83% Self Esteem
81% Relationship Issues
80% Stress
70% Coping Skills
70% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

66% SunLife
66% Canada Life | Great-West Life
62% Manulife

How Counsellors in Ottawa, ON see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
16% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Ottawa?

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.