Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Melanie Crane
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling mentally exhausted, constantly overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns of stress and self-doubt? Whether you’re navigating the challenges of ADHD, experiencing burnout at work or school, or struggling with anxiety and depression, you don’t have to do it alone. Life’s demands can feel relentless, but therapy offers a space to slow down, reflect, and regain a sense of balance. I’m here to support you in understanding your unique challenges, building coping strategies, and fostering self-compassion. Let’s work together to help you feel more in control, confident, and aligned with the life you want to live.
Are you feeling mentally exhausted, constantly overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns of stress and self-doubt? Whether you’re navigating the challenges of ADHD, experiencing burnout at work or school, or struggling with anxiety and depression, you don’t have to do it alone. Life’s demands can feel relentless, but therapy offers a space to slow down, reflect, and regain a sense of balance. I’m here to support you in understanding your unique challenges, building coping strategies, and fostering self-compassion. Let’s work together to help you feel more in control, confident, and aligned with the life you want to live.

I have worked in the area of psychotherapy for several years and have a variety of experience including research, teaching, supervision and psychotherapy. As a registered psychotherapist, I enjoy providing authentic, compassionate, challenging and insightful support as I journey alongside my clients through the many challenges they face. I consider it an honour to be invited to walk with people as they courageously face life's past, present and future difficulties. I have both personal and professional experience working with CAF, Veterans and their family members.
I have worked in the area of psychotherapy for several years and have a variety of experience including research, teaching, supervision and psychotherapy. As a registered psychotherapist, I enjoy providing authentic, compassionate, challenging and insightful support as I journey alongside my clients through the many challenges they face. I consider it an honour to be invited to walk with people as they courageously face life's past, present and future difficulties. I have both personal and professional experience working with CAF, Veterans and their family members.

I have been helping persons improve their life circumstances to gain lives of greater achievement for the last 30 years in Ottawa. I have collaborated with persons from all walks of life. I practise Adlerian Psychology. I am adept in Adlerian, Existential, and Jungian counselling. Using a client-oriented, experiential approach, I provide Individual, Couples, and Family counselling, along with Addiction counselling. My approach is based on depth psychology, and accessing creative skills and processes. M.A. Adlerian Psychotherapy & Counseling (Concurring Disorders); Cell: 613-295-4026
I have been helping persons improve their life circumstances to gain lives of greater achievement for the last 30 years in Ottawa. I have collaborated with persons from all walks of life. I practise Adlerian Psychology. I am adept in Adlerian, Existential, and Jungian counselling. Using a client-oriented, experiential approach, I provide Individual, Couples, and Family counselling, along with Addiction counselling. My approach is based on depth psychology, and accessing creative skills and processes. M.A. Adlerian Psychotherapy & Counseling (Concurring Disorders); Cell: 613-295-4026

Sharp Dopler
Registered Psychotherapist, CD, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2H
Not accepting new clients
As we journey through life, sometimes the way is easy and other times it is not. Therapy may help us explore whatever we have encountered along the path. I work with individuals 18 and older who would like to explore the paths previously travelled, while developing strategies for balance and wellness on the journey forward. My goal is to walk with you for a time, to co-create a space to reflect, learn and grow, guided by the inherent wisdom you carry within you.
As we journey through life, sometimes the way is easy and other times it is not. Therapy may help us explore whatever we have encountered along the path. I work with individuals 18 and older who would like to explore the paths previously travelled, while developing strategies for balance and wellness on the journey forward. My goal is to walk with you for a time, to co-create a space to reflect, learn and grow, guided by the inherent wisdom you carry within you.

I believe that therapy is most effective when it deeply respects and builds upon your own unique strengths, abilities, values, and past resourcefulness. My goal is to support youth and young adults in moving forward in their lives through effectively addressing challenges related to mental health, unresolved past or current relationship trauma and grief, persistent loneliness, excessive worry and overthinking, anger management, and navigating the complexities of early adulthood. I also provide clinical supervision to counsellors and psychotherapists working towards their CRPO independent practice status.
I believe that therapy is most effective when it deeply respects and builds upon your own unique strengths, abilities, values, and past resourcefulness. My goal is to support youth and young adults in moving forward in their lives through effectively addressing challenges related to mental health, unresolved past or current relationship trauma and grief, persistent loneliness, excessive worry and overthinking, anger management, and navigating the complexities of early adulthood. I also provide clinical supervision to counsellors and psychotherapists working towards their CRPO independent practice status.

Lauren McCarley
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), BSc, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're struggling with anxiety, 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, 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.

Erin Shaheen
Registered Social Service Worker, MEd , RSSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G
Individuals reach out to my practice when they have reached a time when their previous coping strategies are no longer fully meeting their needs. I endeavour to offer compassionate, active listening to support you in identifying your strengths and moving forward with your goals of living more fully and authentically.
I have a strong interest in maternal health and parenting, understanding infant sleep, your toddler's behaviour and parenting your children into their young adult years.
Individuals reach out to my practice when they have reached a time when their previous coping strategies are no longer fully meeting their needs. I endeavour to offer compassionate, active listening to support you in identifying your strengths and moving forward with your goals of living more fully and authentically.
I have a strong interest in maternal health and parenting, understanding infant sleep, your toddler's behaviour and parenting your children into their young adult years.

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.

Our main goal as a practice is to work with adults to improve the quality of their lives and relationships. We focus on helping clients discover self-understanding, self-awareness, and self-compassion, and then transforming this insight into meaningful and lasting change. We integrate several evidence-based modalities into our work with clients, though this is always grounded in authenticity and collaboration, leaving space for the client's uniqueness and individuality. Our clinic values inclusivity and equity, and we enjoy working with clients from all walks of life; no matter what, you are welcome, valued, and appreciated here.
Our main goal as a practice is to work with adults to improve the quality of their lives and relationships. We focus on helping clients discover self-understanding, self-awareness, and self-compassion, and then transforming this insight into meaningful and lasting change. We integrate several evidence-based modalities into our work with clients, though this is always grounded in authenticity and collaboration, leaving space for the client's uniqueness and individuality. Our clinic values inclusivity and equity, and we enjoy working with clients from all walks of life; no matter what, you are welcome, valued, and appreciated here.

Meilan Counselling Clinic
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
You? You're probably awestruck by the beauty of this world but also heart-broken by the cruelty of some of the people in it, and enraged at the injustice. Maybe you have unimaginably intense emotions that you struggle to surf, a quick mind but difficulties connecting with others, creative impulses you can't quite express (or not as fluidly as you used to), or are in a relationship where one of you is a POC and the other isn't and you're just trying to make your crazy love work.
You? You're probably awestruck by the beauty of this world but also heart-broken by the cruelty of some of the people in it, and enraged at the injustice. Maybe you have unimaginably intense emotions that you struggle to surf, a quick mind but difficulties connecting with others, creative impulses you can't quite express (or not as fluidly as you used to), or are in a relationship where one of you is a POC and the other isn't and you're just trying to make your crazy love work.

If you are going through a separation or divorce, you are probably concerned about the effect on your children. This can be a difficult time for them. Children’s emotions may go through stages and change. Your child may feel sad, confused, angry, guilty or worried about what will happen to them. How you handle the changes will be important for your child’s well-being. This is where I can help. I have over 27 years of experience working with children and families with a particular focus at this point in my career, on separation and divorce and the resulting impact on the family unit.
If you are going through a separation or divorce, you are probably concerned about the effect on your children. This can be a difficult time for them. Children’s emotions may go through stages and change. Your child may feel sad, confused, angry, guilty or worried about what will happen to them. How you handle the changes will be important for your child’s well-being. This is where I can help. I have over 27 years of experience working with children and families with a particular focus at this point in my career, on separation and divorce and the resulting impact on the family unit.
Meet Our Counsellors

Birchall Consulting & Assoc.Inc. International
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2H
Elaine Birchall MSW RSW is a clinical Social Worker with 19 years experience specializing in treating Hoarding Disorder and Hoarding Behaviors as well as the Comorbidities associated.. She helps people take their lives back when their things are taking over. Counselling and de-cluttering support are provided. Counselling and coaching is provided for individuals who hoard and those who care about them.She also trains and consults internationally. In 2019 Elaine and her co-author Suzanne Cronkwright released their book Conquer the Clutter: Strategies to Identify, Manage and Overcome Hoarding published by Johns Hopkins Univ Press.
Elaine Birchall MSW RSW is a clinical Social Worker with 19 years experience specializing in treating Hoarding Disorder and Hoarding Behaviors as well as the Comorbidities associated.. She helps people take their lives back when their things are taking over. Counselling and de-cluttering support are provided. Counselling and coaching is provided for individuals who hoard and those who care about them.She also trains and consults internationally. In 2019 Elaine and her co-author Suzanne Cronkwright released their book Conquer the Clutter: Strategies to Identify, Manage and Overcome Hoarding published by Johns Hopkins Univ Press.

I believe strongly that every client has a story, in light of which every behaviour and reaction makes sense and that it’s never too early or too late to access therapy. I see the hurtful experiences and broken relationships in every client’s story, and I help to connect the dots to help go back to the past in order to heal the present self. I work together with my clients to come up with a treatment plan that makes sense in terms of goals as well as time and financial constraints.
I believe strongly that every client has a story, in light of which every behaviour and reaction makes sense and that it’s never too early or too late to access therapy. I see the hurtful experiences and broken relationships in every client’s story, and I help to connect the dots to help go back to the past in order to heal the present self. I work together with my clients to come up with a treatment plan that makes sense in terms of goals as well as time and financial constraints.

I have both an M.Ed. in Counselling as well as a Master of Social Work, and have been working with children and families for years. Although I occasionally take on adults who are looking for a dynamic, supportive, practical and engaging therapy experience, I now work mostly with children. While part of my caseload is always reserved for individuals dealing with trauma or complicated grief, my current passion is working with children with social, emotional and behavioural challenges. I also do a great deal of work with kids who are struggling to cope with a parent's/sibling's disability or illness - anything from cancer to PTSD.
I have both an M.Ed. in Counselling as well as a Master of Social Work, and have been working with children and families for years. Although I occasionally take on adults who are looking for a dynamic, supportive, practical and engaging therapy experience, I now work mostly with children. While part of my caseload is always reserved for individuals dealing with trauma or complicated grief, my current passion is working with children with social, emotional and behavioural challenges. I also do a great deal of work with kids who are struggling to cope with a parent's/sibling's disability or illness - anything from cancer to PTSD.

Vous vous demandez pourquoi vous vous sentez fatigué ? pourquoi vous manquez du sommeil et d’énergie pour vous concentrer sur vos tâches et activités de tous les jours ? ou pourquoi vous consommez d’alcool ou d’autres substances pour fonctionner ? eh bien j’offre des services de counselling et de psychothérapie aux personnes qui traversent des défis de stress, d’anxiété, d’insomnie ainsi que de Trouble de stress-post traumatique (TSPT). Je sais que ça prend du courage pour demander de l’aide, n’hésitez pas à me contacter, je vais réponde à vos questions.
Vous vous demandez pourquoi vous vous sentez fatigué ? pourquoi vous manquez du sommeil et d’énergie pour vous concentrer sur vos tâches et activités de tous les jours ? ou pourquoi vous consommez d’alcool ou d’autres substances pour fonctionner ? eh bien j’offre des services de counselling et de psychothérapie aux personnes qui traversent des défis de stress, d’anxiété, d’insomnie ainsi que de Trouble de stress-post traumatique (TSPT). Je sais que ça prend du courage pour demander de l’aide, n’hésitez pas à me contacter, je vais réponde à vos questions.

Accepting new clients! I offer a warm and supportive counselling style, meeting my clients wherever they are in their healing journey. I approach therapy as a collaborative process, recognizing that everyone has the ability within themselves to reach the goals they set in therapy.
Accepting new clients! I offer a warm and supportive counselling style, meeting my clients wherever they are in their healing journey. I approach therapy as a collaborative process, recognizing that everyone has the ability within themselves to reach the goals they set in therapy.

Stephanie Elisabeth Sophie Larrue
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, GDip, RP, CHyp, PhDCan
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
Each individual has an innate ability to heal and transform one's life and relationships. I work with you to help you open up to your own healing with self-care and see a fresher and more hopeful perspective when things seem bleak. Our counselling relationship will help you gain the empowerment you need to lead a healthier, happier life within yourself, with your loved ones and colleagues, and to find your own answers and solutions.
Each individual has an innate ability to heal and transform one's life and relationships. I work with you to help you open up to your own healing with self-care and see a fresher and more hopeful perspective when things seem bleak. Our counselling relationship will help you gain the empowerment you need to lead a healthier, happier life within yourself, with your loved ones and colleagues, and to find your own answers and solutions.

I am a bilingual (FR/EN) Registered Psychologist in Ontario (6475) and British Columbia (2785) with a strong compassionate presence and a mindfulness/acceptance-based orientation. I provide evidence-based care to help people develop greater wellbeing and mind-body health. I have experience working with adults with a wide range of difficulties (e.g. anxiety, depression, stress, health issues, interpersonal challenges) in individual and group settings. I have a particular interest in working with young adults after having helped many clients in their 20's/30's adapt to life transitions and build lives that are more meaningful.
I am a bilingual (FR/EN) Registered Psychologist in Ontario (6475) and British Columbia (2785) with a strong compassionate presence and a mindfulness/acceptance-based orientation. I provide evidence-based care to help people develop greater wellbeing and mind-body health. I have experience working with adults with a wide range of difficulties (e.g. anxiety, depression, stress, health issues, interpersonal challenges) in individual and group settings. I have a particular interest in working with young adults after having helped many clients in their 20's/30's adapt to life transitions and build lives that are more meaningful.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges and transitions? You don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m here to support you on your journey toward healing, resilience, and personal growth. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship difficulties, I provide a compassionate space where you can regain stability, find clarity, and reconnect with your inner strength.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges and transitions? You don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m here to support you on your journey toward healing, resilience, and personal growth. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship difficulties, I provide a compassionate space where you can regain stability, find clarity, and reconnect with your inner strength.

Looking for a compassionate path to wellness? As a psychotherapist specializing in addiction, trauma, anxiety, and depression, I'm here to guide you through your journey of healing and self-discovery. If you're seeking to understand and overcome life's challenges, you'll find a safe and supportive space in my practice. Together, we'll work on building resilience, enhancing self-esteem, and creating a balanced, fulfilling life. It's not just about managing symptoms—it's about understanding their roots and fostering meaningful, lasting change. Let's embark on this journey together towards your well being and empowerment.
Looking for a compassionate path to wellness? As a psychotherapist specializing in addiction, trauma, anxiety, and depression, I'm here to guide you through your journey of healing and self-discovery. If you're seeking to understand and overcome life's challenges, you'll find a safe and supportive space in my practice. Together, we'll work on building resilience, enhancing self-esteem, and creating a balanced, fulfilling life. It's not just about managing symptoms—it's about understanding their roots and fostering meaningful, lasting change. Let's embark on this journey together towards your well being and empowerment.
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Nearby Searches for Ottawa
See More CounsellorsHow 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 |
80% | Stress |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Coping Skills |
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 | |
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
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Most Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are certified by one of the main professional associations, mainly the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and will have a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) designation with their name. Social Workers listed in the directory must be registered members of the college specific to their province. To be listed in the directory, Psychologists must be registered with the psychological college specific to their province or territory.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Psychologists, counsellors, psychotherapists and social workers can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in Canada.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Canada could be between $100 and $200. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postal code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Professionals licensed by regulatory colleges and those certified by associations such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.