Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Sarah Crosby, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Sarah Crosby
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
As a relationally focused therapist, I believe that connection is essential to healing. I help people who feel stuck in repeating patterns or who long for deeper intimacy and a more authentic sense of self. My focus in our work together is to create a space where you feel truly seen and can reconnect with your inherent ability to thrive. I believe that true change goes beyond just talking about problems, which is why I take a relational, experiential, and emotion-focused approach to help you engage more deeply with your emotions.
As a relationally focused therapist, I believe that connection is essential to healing. I help people who feel stuck in repeating patterns or who long for deeper intimacy and a more authentic sense of self. My focus in our work together is to create a space where you feel truly seen and can reconnect with your inherent ability to thrive. I believe that true change goes beyond just talking about problems, which is why I take a relational, experiential, and emotion-focused approach to help you engage more deeply with your emotions.
(343) 500-6435 View (343) 500-6435
Photo of Erica Campbell, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Erica Campbell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N
Are you having intrusive, anxious, or OCD-related thoughts and compulsions? Is it interfering with your day-to-day life? I offer anxiety and OCD treatment to adults, children, and youth in person and online. I have a passion for helping those who are struggling to thrive in life find the skills to cope and grow. I also have experience in the social work field, from providing youth programming and working with children, to guiding women in domestic abuse shelters and supporting dual-diagnosis adults with varying disabilities.
Are you having intrusive, anxious, or OCD-related thoughts and compulsions? Is it interfering with your day-to-day life? I offer anxiety and OCD treatment to adults, children, and youth in person and online. I have a passion for helping those who are struggling to thrive in life find the skills to cope and grow. I also have experience in the social work field, from providing youth programming and working with children, to guiding women in domestic abuse shelters and supporting dual-diagnosis adults with varying disabilities.
(343) 313-0758 View (343) 313-0758
Photo of Roxana Manoiu, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Roxana Manoiu
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients starting April 2024 - I recognize that it takes a lot of courage to make the first step to reach out, and for that, I congratulate you. In working together, I invite you to discover yourself, empower you to process any wounded parts of your past, reach your goals, in a safe, secure and non-judgmental space. Through my work as a crisis counsellor, I have had the opportunity of working with survivors of Intimate-Partner Violence, complex grief and trauma, and tragic circumstances, in addition to providing support to first responders.
Accepting new clients starting April 2024 - I recognize that it takes a lot of courage to make the first step to reach out, and for that, I congratulate you. In working together, I invite you to discover yourself, empower you to process any wounded parts of your past, reach your goals, in a safe, secure and non-judgmental space. Through my work as a crisis counsellor, I have had the opportunity of working with survivors of Intimate-Partner Violence, complex grief and trauma, and tragic circumstances, in addition to providing support to first responders.
(343) 700-6090 View (343) 700-6090
Photo of Joelle Willett, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Joelle Willett
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P
The world can be a difficult place to navigate. I am passionate about creating a safe and open space for you to explore and address what is important to you. I believe everyone should have a place to discuss their concerns in a warm, welcoming and empathetic environment, free from judgement. I am drawn to using narrative and emotion focused therapy approaches with a systemic lens. With this, I hope to build space for you to connect with yourself and others to gain a deeper understanding of your experience and promote a place of healing. I work from a client-centred stance that is led by curiosity to tailor therapy to you.
The world can be a difficult place to navigate. I am passionate about creating a safe and open space for you to explore and address what is important to you. I believe everyone should have a place to discuss their concerns in a warm, welcoming and empathetic environment, free from judgement. I am drawn to using narrative and emotion focused therapy approaches with a systemic lens. With this, I hope to build space for you to connect with yourself and others to gain a deeper understanding of your experience and promote a place of healing. I work from a client-centred stance that is led by curiosity to tailor therapy to you.
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Photo of Anupama Estarla, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc, RP(Q)
Anupama Estarla
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J
Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure of where to turn for support? Whether it’s your child struggling in school, a teen navigating tough emotions, or an adult facing personal challenges, life can sometimes feel too much to handle. You might feel stuck, frustrated, or uncertain about how to move forward. It’s okay to ask for help, and therapy can be a space to start fresh, find understanding, and build a path to feeling better. You don't have to go through this alone. I believe in the power of therapy to help people make lasting changes, and I'm committed to being there with you every step of the way.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure of where to turn for support? Whether it’s your child struggling in school, a teen navigating tough emotions, or an adult facing personal challenges, life can sometimes feel too much to handle. You might feel stuck, frustrated, or uncertain about how to move forward. It’s okay to ask for help, and therapy can be a space to start fresh, find understanding, and build a path to feeling better. You don't have to go through this alone. I believe in the power of therapy to help people make lasting changes, and I'm committed to being there with you every step of the way.
(343) 308-2867 View (343) 308-2867
Photo of Joel Martini, BSc, BA
Joel Martini
BSc, BA
Verified Verified
Online Only
At the heart of my practice is a dedication to nurturing a therapeutic relationship built on trust and collaboration. Together, we prioritize progress over perfection, with a priority on evidence-based research. I am here to equip you with the confidence and tools to navigate your presenting concerns, empowering you to seize control over what is within your ability to control, and guide you towards acceptance of what lies beyond your influence.
At the heart of my practice is a dedication to nurturing a therapeutic relationship built on trust and collaboration. Together, we prioritize progress over perfection, with a priority on evidence-based research. I am here to equip you with the confidence and tools to navigate your presenting concerns, empowering you to seize control over what is within your ability to control, and guide you towards acceptance of what lies beyond your influence.
(343) 700-4615 View (343) 700-4615
Photo of Krista Helman - Trauma & Grief Institute, Registered Social Worker
Trauma & Grief Institute
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2H
Experienced clinicians at the Trauma & Grief Institute are currently accepting new clients! Are you struggling with trauma, grief, or emotional distress? Whether you're facing loss, burnout, anxiety, or relationship challenges, we offer specialized therapy to support healing. At TGI, we provide evidence-based psychotherapy for youth, adults, couples, families, first responders, and frontline workers. Our holistic approach integrates EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, SSP, and Art Therapy to address PTSD, emotional regulation, and major life transitions. We also offer wellness workshops and trauma-informed retreats for deeper healing.
Experienced clinicians at the Trauma & Grief Institute are currently accepting new clients! Are you struggling with trauma, grief, or emotional distress? Whether you're facing loss, burnout, anxiety, or relationship challenges, we offer specialized therapy to support healing. At TGI, we provide evidence-based psychotherapy for youth, adults, couples, families, first responders, and frontline workers. Our holistic approach integrates EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, SSP, and Art Therapy to address PTSD, emotional regulation, and major life transitions. We also offer wellness workshops and trauma-informed retreats for deeper healing.
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Photo of Jamie McCallum, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BEd, BA
Jamie McCallum
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BEd, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
Life can wear us down. Sometimes we’re in pain, sometimes the ones we love are hurting and sometimes we hurt one another. It can be hard to find our way to peace and connection.
Life can wear us down. Sometimes we’re in pain, sometimes the ones we love are hurting and sometimes we hurt one another. It can be hard to find our way to peace and connection.
(343) 306-0873 View (343) 306-0873
Photo of Anna Louise Seifried - Anna Seifried , Registered Psychotherapist, MPH, MA
Anna Seifried
Registered Psychotherapist, MPH, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
Waitlist for new clients
I am Associate at Laura Murton Psychotherapy. I specialize in PTSD & CPTSD; adult survivors of childhood trauma; sexual assault & domestic abuse; gifted & high achieving individuals; grief; infidelity; breakups & divorces; parents (including single, new or expecting); healthcare workers; and veterans. I can assist with integration post- psychedelic-assisted therapy. I welcome diversity in my clientele including all abilities, races, cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic classes, relationship structures (monogamy & non-monogamy), body sizes, sexualities, genders, religions & spiritual beliefs.
I am Associate at Laura Murton Psychotherapy. I specialize in PTSD & CPTSD; adult survivors of childhood trauma; sexual assault & domestic abuse; gifted & high achieving individuals; grief; infidelity; breakups & divorces; parents (including single, new or expecting); healthcare workers; and veterans. I can assist with integration post- psychedelic-assisted therapy. I welcome diversity in my clientele including all abilities, races, cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic classes, relationship structures (monogamy & non-monogamy), body sizes, sexualities, genders, religions & spiritual beliefs.
(343) 321-0135 View (343) 321-0135
Photo of Siobhan Laura Nearey, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
Siobhan Laura Nearey
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Stressed? Overwhelmed? Burnt out? Struggling to make sense of the world? Trying to figure out where you fit in? I take a radically compassionate approach to supporting folks who are trying to navigate the complexities of life today.
Stressed? Overwhelmed? Burnt out? Struggling to make sense of the world? Trying to figure out where you fit in? I take a radically compassionate approach to supporting folks who are trying to navigate the complexities of life today.
(613) 209-5210 View (613) 209-5210
Photo of Sima Akbari, Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
Sima Akbari
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2S
I have over 10 years of experience working with people struggling with a broad range of issues, including anxiety, feeling low or depressed, trauma, relationship problems, family concerns, or parenting challenges. I will provide you with a comfortable and safe space to share your concerns and I would happily stand with you to reach your goals.
I have over 10 years of experience working with people struggling with a broad range of issues, including anxiety, feeling low or depressed, trauma, relationship problems, family concerns, or parenting challenges. I will provide you with a comfortable and safe space to share your concerns and I would happily stand with you to reach your goals.
(289) 272-9447 View (289) 272-9447
Photo of Zara Arshad, Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP, PMH-C
Zara Arshad
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
As your therapist, I create a safe, comfortable, and non-judgemental environment where I allow you to express who you are – the good and the bad. During this vulnerable process, I offer gentle support in reaching your therapeutic goals, by helping you make sense of the issues you are facing, gain insight into your thoughts, beliefs, and emotions, facilitate and enhance communication, connect with your inner resilience, implement changes, develop compassion towards yourself and others, and renew connections with people in your life.
As your therapist, I create a safe, comfortable, and non-judgemental environment where I allow you to express who you are – the good and the bad. During this vulnerable process, I offer gentle support in reaching your therapeutic goals, by helping you make sense of the issues you are facing, gain insight into your thoughts, beliefs, and emotions, facilitate and enhance communication, connect with your inner resilience, implement changes, develop compassion towards yourself and others, and renew connections with people in your life.
(613) 604-0452 View (613) 604-0452
Photo of Heather Pearson, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPQ, MBA
Heather Pearson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPQ, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You’re navigating the stages of life and change, taking care of everyone around you and hoping things will get better. You are successful, but can’t shake the feeling that you are not good enough, that you could always be doing more at work, at home and in your relationships with others. You’ve read all the books, listened to all the podcasts, googled everything you can think of but it all seems overwhelming and you feel even more isolated.
You’re navigating the stages of life and change, taking care of everyone around you and hoping things will get better. You are successful, but can’t shake the feeling that you are not good enough, that you could always be doing more at work, at home and in your relationships with others. You’ve read all the books, listened to all the podcasts, googled everything you can think of but it all seems overwhelming and you feel even more isolated.
(343) 700-4023 View (343) 700-4023
Photo of Mariam Hanna, Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Mariam Hanna
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1G
Not accepting new clients
I believe that in life we all need a non-judgmental & supportive space where we can feel safe and understood. If you've been feeling "stuck" or you've been through a big life transition or you've been experiencing a lot of stress, I am passionate about providing a safe space for you to be your authentic self and work through life's complexities. I provide a place for you to heal from the pains of the past & present, discover meaning in the world around you, and gain the effective coping mechanism you need for your every day challenges. I have experience working with young professionals and assisting them in their life transitions.
I believe that in life we all need a non-judgmental & supportive space where we can feel safe and understood. If you've been feeling "stuck" or you've been through a big life transition or you've been experiencing a lot of stress, I am passionate about providing a safe space for you to be your authentic self and work through life's complexities. I provide a place for you to heal from the pains of the past & present, discover meaning in the world around you, and gain the effective coping mechanism you need for your every day challenges. I have experience working with young professionals and assisting them in their life transitions.
(343) 307-0625 View (343) 307-0625
Photo of Maryanne Nicholls, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Maryanne Nicholls
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling stressed or worrying about too much in your life, or perhaps frustrated in your personal or work relationships? Are you going through a life transition that leaves you feeling unsure and anxious? Many people who are struggling with uncertainty have a hard time knowing what direction to go in. It may be that you’ve tried to handle things on your own, or put off reaching out for support because you feel you should be able to work through your challenges by yourself. Sometimes everyone around you seems to have answers, but all you feel is confused. Mostly, you don’t want to let others down and feel that you might.
Are you feeling stressed or worrying about too much in your life, or perhaps frustrated in your personal or work relationships? Are you going through a life transition that leaves you feeling unsure and anxious? Many people who are struggling with uncertainty have a hard time knowing what direction to go in. It may be that you’ve tried to handle things on your own, or put off reaching out for support because you feel you should be able to work through your challenges by yourself. Sometimes everyone around you seems to have answers, but all you feel is confused. Mostly, you don’t want to let others down and feel that you might.
(343) 655-3632 View (343) 655-3632
Photo of Stephanie Hart, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Stephanie Hart
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The relationship between therapist and client is the most important thing for me. I seek to provide a safe place for clients to explore feelings of discomfort. I work with thoughts, feelings, behaviours and bodily sensations to support clients in better understanding themselves. I believe that knowing yourself more deeply is essential to feeling better. I specialize in childhood trauma and self-esteem and I also work with individuals who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief and stress. I support clients struggling with life challenges, such as interpersonal relationships and emotion regulation
The relationship between therapist and client is the most important thing for me. I seek to provide a safe place for clients to explore feelings of discomfort. I work with thoughts, feelings, behaviours and bodily sensations to support clients in better understanding themselves. I believe that knowing yourself more deeply is essential to feeling better. I specialize in childhood trauma and self-esteem and I also work with individuals who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief and stress. I support clients struggling with life challenges, such as interpersonal relationships and emotion regulation
(343) 341-6960 View (343) 341-6960
Photo of Jessica A. Hughes, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Jessica A. Hughes
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a psychodynamic therapist who specializes in complex trauma. Using a non-pathologizing approach to understand emotional distress, I help people see their inherent strengths and understand the meaning behind their struggles. Many of the struggles people want help with are coping strategies that worked at an earlier time in their lives, but are no longer helpful. I work with people to explore how these behaviours came to be, how they helped them survive, and how to cultivate new ways of being that align with their goals and values. I use a psychodynamic approach that includes IFS, EMDR, DBR, and somatic work.
I am a psychodynamic therapist who specializes in complex trauma. Using a non-pathologizing approach to understand emotional distress, I help people see their inherent strengths and understand the meaning behind their struggles. Many of the struggles people want help with are coping strategies that worked at an earlier time in their lives, but are no longer helpful. I work with people to explore how these behaviours came to be, how they helped them survive, and how to cultivate new ways of being that align with their goals and values. I use a psychodynamic approach that includes IFS, EMDR, DBR, and somatic work.
(343) 321-1526 View (343) 321-1526
Photo of Laura Mayne, Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MC
Laura Mayne
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Relationships can be a source of your greatest joys and your biggest challenges. And struggles within your relationships, whether it’s with your partner, a family member or in the workplace, can impact your enjoyment of your daily life. With over 30 years of experience, I have worked with couples and individuals in transforming their relationships from a source of pain and conflict to one of strength and growth. I bring my lived experience as a married lesbian and mother to a young adult to my practice. With Heartswell Counselling, I offer you a safe, inclusive space to explore your feelings and enhance your heart’s well-being.
Relationships can be a source of your greatest joys and your biggest challenges. And struggles within your relationships, whether it’s with your partner, a family member or in the workplace, can impact your enjoyment of your daily life. With over 30 years of experience, I have worked with couples and individuals in transforming their relationships from a source of pain and conflict to one of strength and growth. I bring my lived experience as a married lesbian and mother to a young adult to my practice. With Heartswell Counselling, I offer you a safe, inclusive space to explore your feelings and enhance your heart’s well-being.
(343) 800-0084 View (343) 800-0084
Photo of Alexandra Trottier, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Alexandra Trottier
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
On maternity leave until June 2025. Work Stress & Career Counselling. On the outside life seems good but inside you’re feeling anxious, tired and overwhelmed, and you just don’t feel like yourself. You often wonder how you’ll make it through another day and your head is constantly swirling with negative thoughts. You feel frustrated, worried, and at times helpless, and anxiety is seeping into your personal life. You are a deeply caring person but feel exhausted from overthinking and overworking. You are tired of not prioritizing yourself and you wish you had more control over your thoughts, your schedule, and your life.
On maternity leave until June 2025. Work Stress & Career Counselling. On the outside life seems good but inside you’re feeling anxious, tired and overwhelmed, and you just don’t feel like yourself. You often wonder how you’ll make it through another day and your head is constantly swirling with negative thoughts. You feel frustrated, worried, and at times helpless, and anxiety is seeping into your personal life. You are a deeply caring person but feel exhausted from overthinking and overworking. You are tired of not prioritizing yourself and you wish you had more control over your thoughts, your schedule, and your life.
(613) 801-6854 View (613) 801-6854
Photo of Céleste Henderson, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Céleste Henderson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in supporting queer, polyamorous/ENM individuals. I also offer services in French. As a Queer French Canadian, I bring a deep understanding of intersectional identities and experiences to my work.
I specialize in supporting queer, polyamorous/ENM individuals. I also offer services in French. As a Queer French Canadian, I bring a deep understanding of intersectional identities and experiences to my work.
(343) 309-9483 View (343) 309-9483
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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
80% Relationship Issues
79% Stress
70% Coping Skills
69% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% SunLife
64% Canada Life | Great-West Life
59% Manulife

How Counsellors in Ottawa, ON see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% 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.