Therapists in Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC
Olga Shchedrinskaya
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6S
Having worked as a counsellor in a non-profit organization, private practice, and a mental health clinic, I bring more than 10 years of experience to my work with individuals, couples, and families. My primary focus is on relationship issues, parenting, mood disorders, major life transitions, grief, and loss. I support children and youth struggling with ADHD, anxiety, fears, anger management, and low self-esteem. I also help couples with premarital difficulties, infidelity, conflict resolution, separation, multicultural issues, and immigration challenges.
Having worked as a counsellor in a non-profit organization, private practice, and a mental health clinic, I bring more than 10 years of experience to my work with individuals, couples, and families. My primary focus is on relationship issues, parenting, mood disorders, major life transitions, grief, and loss. I support children and youth struggling with ADHD, anxiety, fears, anger management, and low self-esteem. I also help couples with premarital difficulties, infidelity, conflict resolution, separation, multicultural issues, and immigration challenges.
Nina Hopmeier
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CGT, ADHD-CP
Verified Verified
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6N
Have you been feeling overwhelmed lately by your emotions and life demands? Do you sometimes feel like you have exhausted your coping resources and are stuck with where you are? If so, do not worry or judge yourself. We have all felt like this at some point in our lives. Let me introduce myself: I am a registered clinical counsellor (RCC) and am extremely passionate about building strong and trusting bonds with my clients in order to facilitate change and growth. I work from a supportive, curious, and nonjudgmental stance, focusing on your strengths and equipping you with the resources you need to have the life you want.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed lately by your emotions and life demands? Do you sometimes feel like you have exhausted your coping resources and are stuck with where you are? If so, do not worry or judge yourself. We have all felt like this at some point in our lives. Let me introduce myself: I am a registered clinical counsellor (RCC) and am extremely passionate about building strong and trusting bonds with my clients in order to facilitate change and growth. I work from a supportive, curious, and nonjudgmental stance, focusing on your strengths and equipping you with the resources you need to have the life you want.
Natalia Sarmiento
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6S (Online Only)
I am passionate about self-discovery, embodiment, creativity, and conscious living. My goal is to support my clients on their journey back to their truest, most embodied selves. I offer different modalities to explore and help bring awareness to our deepest wants and needs, and to open space for expansion and genuine self-expression. I believe that a truthful, embodied life involves body, mind, and spirit, so I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where every aspect of our complex inner lives can come to light and be witnessed with compassionate curiosity.
I am passionate about self-discovery, embodiment, creativity, and conscious living. My goal is to support my clients on their journey back to their truest, most embodied selves. I offer different modalities to explore and help bring awareness to our deepest wants and needs, and to open space for expansion and genuine self-expression. I believe that a truthful, embodied life involves body, mind, and spirit, so I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where every aspect of our complex inner lives can come to light and be witnessed with compassionate curiosity.
Soomin Yu
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6N
I am a Registered Psychologist in British Columbia providing diagnostic assessment services for the following challenges: mental health disorders, intellectual disability, specific learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and changes in thinking skills.
I am a Registered Psychologist in British Columbia providing diagnostic assessment services for the following challenges: mental health disorders, intellectual disability, specific learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and changes in thinking skills.
Zana Becker, Counsellor & Art Therapist
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RCAT, CCPA
Verified Verified
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6L
Currently you may feel as if you are in a place of hopelessness, depression, experiencing feelings of being overwhelmed with few resources to draw upon for help. Collaborative through counselling and/or art therapy we can explore and rediscover your internal resources finding your inner resilience and strength; exploring answers to your feelings, inner turmoil and questions. Answers you might seek are how do I deal with the pit in my stomach, or why do I feel so anxious all the time and why can’t I sleep through the night; what is my body trying to tell me?
Currently you may feel as if you are in a place of hopelessness, depression, experiencing feelings of being overwhelmed with few resources to draw upon for help. Collaborative through counselling and/or art therapy we can explore and rediscover your internal resources finding your inner resilience and strength; exploring answers to your feelings, inner turmoil and questions. Answers you might seek are how do I deal with the pit in my stomach, or why do I feel so anxious all the time and why can’t I sleep through the night; what is my body trying to tell me?
Simon Elterman
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6S
I heard that the purpose of therapy is not meant to change who you are, but to become who you really are. I use evidence-based therapy to help you learn skills to better face challenges while also building insight into how these issues may have come about. I use a kind of talk therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which focuses on understanding and being open to thoughts and emotions, being aware of the present moment and your perspective in it, and deepening your values with actionable steps. I also have specialized training in sleep issues.
I heard that the purpose of therapy is not meant to change who you are, but to become who you really are. I use evidence-based therapy to help you learn skills to better face challenges while also building insight into how these issues may have come about. I use a kind of talk therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which focuses on understanding and being open to thoughts and emotions, being aware of the present moment and your perspective in it, and deepening your values with actionable steps. I also have specialized training in sleep issues.
Pablee Wong
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6N
I am a Registered Psychologist in BC who provides autism assessment and psycho-educational assessment for children and youth. I also assess attention difficulties (ADHD), learning disabilities (e.g. Dyslexia), and intellectual disability. Services are provided in English and Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin). I do not provide assessments for adults (19+).
I am a Registered Psychologist in BC who provides autism assessment and psycho-educational assessment for children and youth. I also assess attention difficulties (ADHD), learning disabilities (e.g. Dyslexia), and intellectual disability. Services are provided in English and Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin). I do not provide assessments for adults (19+).
Mabelle Moon
Counsellor, PhD(c), MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6S (Online Only)
Are you stressed? Stress from daily hassles, life events, acute stress, chronic stress or traumatic stress is associated with worse mental and physical health. I can help you manage your stress and regulate your emotions with an evidence-based approach, so you can heal and be empowered with confidence, resilience and purpose.
Are you stressed? Stress from daily hassles, life events, acute stress, chronic stress or traumatic stress is associated with worse mental and physical health. I can help you manage your stress and regulate your emotions with an evidence-based approach, so you can heal and be empowered with confidence, resilience and purpose.
When you feel that life has handed you more than you can handle, it can be paralyzing. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or stress, grief and loss, or a personal or professional crisis, you don't need to suffer alone. Working together we will help you gain perspective. Through sharing your story and rediscovering your strengths you will begin to feel capable again. When you are serious about wanting to solve problems and make lasting changes in your life, give me a call.
When you feel that life has handed you more than you can handle, it can be paralyzing. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or stress, grief and loss, or a personal or professional crisis, you don't need to suffer alone. Working together we will help you gain perspective. Through sharing your story and rediscovering your strengths you will begin to feel capable again. When you are serious about wanting to solve problems and make lasting changes in your life, give me a call.
Michael Elterman
Psychologist, PhD, MBA, RPsych, (BC)
Verified Verified
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6S
I have been practicing as a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist in B.C. for 40 years. I was previously the Senior Psychologist at the Vancouver Health Dept. and the Director of Psychology at VGH (Shaughnessy). I was a consultant to the Family Justice Counselling Service (BC Attorney General) for 10 years and the National Parole Board of Canada. My clients these days see me primarily for parenting and post-separation problems. This can take the form of parenting assessments for the Court, consulting, and Parent Coordination. I am registered to practice in BC. Equally importantly I am a husband, father and grandfather.
I have been practicing as a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist in B.C. for 40 years. I was previously the Senior Psychologist at the Vancouver Health Dept. and the Director of Psychology at VGH (Shaughnessy). I was a consultant to the Family Justice Counselling Service (BC Attorney General) for 10 years and the National Parole Board of Canada. My clients these days see me primarily for parenting and post-separation problems. This can take the form of parenting assessments for the Court, consulting, and Parent Coordination. I am registered to practice in BC. Equally importantly I am a husband, father and grandfather.
Sharon Esler
Counsellor, MC, BN, RCC
Verified Verified
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6S (Online Only)
The primary focus of my practice is supporting individuals who are feeling stuck in life. Together we explore the often invisible yet powerful forces (internal and external) that can shape our lives and move us away from our values and toward distress. We also explore the benefit of using emotion to guide us toward values and a greater sense of peace. Over the course of therapy my clients engage in guided self reflection and generally experience a gradual unfolding of insight, the illumination of a meaningful path forward, and the courage to move through fear in service to their preferred future.
The primary focus of my practice is supporting individuals who are feeling stuck in life. Together we explore the often invisible yet powerful forces (internal and external) that can shape our lives and move us away from our values and toward distress. We also explore the benefit of using emotion to guide us toward values and a greater sense of peace. Over the course of therapy my clients engage in guided self reflection and generally experience a gradual unfolding of insight, the illumination of a meaningful path forward, and the courage to move through fear in service to their preferred future.
Elizabeth Mary Goodall Koch
Counsellor, RCC, MA hons, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6S
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, and depression. As a solution-focused therapist, I utilize evidence-based techniques to help you identify and overcome negative thought patterns. If you're struggling to find a sense of well-being in your life, you may feel chronically unwell, and disconnected from your core sense of self. You might find yourself relying on unfulfilling coping strategies, or caught in patterns that lead you back to the same point, again and again.
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, and depression. As a solution-focused therapist, I utilize evidence-based techniques to help you identify and overcome negative thought patterns. If you're struggling to find a sense of well-being in your life, you may feel chronically unwell, and disconnected from your core sense of self. You might find yourself relying on unfulfilling coping strategies, or caught in patterns that lead you back to the same point, again and again.
Commence Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6N (Online Only)
Life gets hard and sometimes unexpected challenges get thrown your way. Are you feeling stuck? In a daze you cannot get out of? Feeling trapped in situations? Trying to figure out what to do with dilemmas? Getting pulled in all directions and not sure which way to go? Has dynamics with your partner, family, friends, peers, colleagues change? Do you want someone to check in with or to connect with, someone to hear and sit through this challenging time with you? Reaching out in the midst of opacity can help you clear your line of vision and get you back to pursuing your goals and dreams. Life can get better.
Life gets hard and sometimes unexpected challenges get thrown your way. Are you feeling stuck? In a daze you cannot get out of? Feeling trapped in situations? Trying to figure out what to do with dilemmas? Getting pulled in all directions and not sure which way to go? Has dynamics with your partner, family, friends, peers, colleagues change? Do you want someone to check in with or to connect with, someone to hear and sit through this challenging time with you? Reaching out in the midst of opacity can help you clear your line of vision and get you back to pursuing your goals and dreams. Life can get better.
Johnson Ma
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6N
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a Chinese Canadian psychologist based in Greater Vancouver area. I have experiences in providing diagnostic assessment and psychotherapy in English, and Mandarin to people of diversity struggling with serious mental illness, complex trauma, addiction, concurrent disorders, rehabilitation from physical injuries and traumatic events. In addition to psychological services, I have developed and presented culturally appropriate psychoeducational workshops for Chinese immigrant groups and local school districts in Greater Vancouver.
I'm a Chinese Canadian psychologist based in Greater Vancouver area. I have experiences in providing diagnostic assessment and psychotherapy in English, and Mandarin to people of diversity struggling with serious mental illness, complex trauma, addiction, concurrent disorders, rehabilitation from physical injuries and traumatic events. In addition to psychological services, I have developed and presented culturally appropriate psychoeducational workshops for Chinese immigrant groups and local school districts in Greater Vancouver.
James McBride
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC V6N
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel like you question yourself all the time, think of yourself as a failure, or not trust your relationships? I help individuals and couples to overcome cycles of doubt through a focused, non-judgmental approach to therapy. Self-doubt can cause us to lose trust ourselves, damage our relationships and careers, cause or worsen anxiety and depression, and can bring us to a place of shame. It can lead us to stagnation or being controlled by our fears. If you are looking to change how you feel about yourself or in your relationship, our work together can be the first step in that process.
Do you feel like you question yourself all the time, think of yourself as a failure, or not trust your relationships? I help individuals and couples to overcome cycles of doubt through a focused, non-judgmental approach to therapy. Self-doubt can cause us to lose trust ourselves, damage our relationships and careers, cause or worsen anxiety and depression, and can bring us to a place of shame. It can lead us to stagnation or being controlled by our fears. If you are looking to change how you feel about yourself or in your relationship, our work together can be the first step in that process.
Online Therapists
My work focuses on those who find themselves lost along their journey. Life can become stressful very quickly. You may feel like you've lost control, that you are stuck in repeating undesired patterns or you just haven't felt like yourself recently. These ups and downs make us human. It's in those down moments that things can begin feeling really dark. You may not be able to see the path forward, bringing up various emotions. Path Forward Counselling was created to help in these moments of distress. A masters level counsellor at Path Forward Counselling can see a path and help guide you along, even when it is hidden from you.
My work focuses on those who find themselves lost along their journey. Life can become stressful very quickly. You may feel like you've lost control, that you are stuck in repeating undesired patterns or you just haven't felt like yourself recently. These ups and downs make us human. It's in those down moments that things can begin feeling really dark. You may not be able to see the path forward, bringing up various emotions. Path Forward Counselling was created to help in these moments of distress. A masters level counsellor at Path Forward Counselling can see a path and help guide you along, even when it is hidden from you.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. When it comes to embarking on a therapeutic journey, finding a therapist who you feel comfortable with is key. Therefore, together we can work collaboratively to create a safe and trustworthy environment and develop personalized goals and strategies that are informed by evidence-based practices. My approach centers on gaining more insight into the obstacles you are encountering right and providing you with tools and support to overcome challenges. My aim is to help you tap into your inherent strength and resilience, allowing you to create new possibilities.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. When it comes to embarking on a therapeutic journey, finding a therapist who you feel comfortable with is key. Therefore, together we can work collaboratively to create a safe and trustworthy environment and develop personalized goals and strategies that are informed by evidence-based practices. My approach centers on gaining more insight into the obstacles you are encountering right and providing you with tools and support to overcome challenges. My aim is to help you tap into your inherent strength and resilience, allowing you to create new possibilities.
I work with clients seeking guidance in building self-esteem/confidence, workplace stress, burnout, relationship problems, setting boundaries, parenting, divorce, racial identity and issues, life transitions and family-related struggles. I also provide tools to overcome anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, family and relational trauma. Through authentic attunement, you can expect to feel seen and embraced for who you are in order to take the necessary steps towards positive change. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them face their shadows in order to uncover opportunities for inner growth and expansion.
I work with clients seeking guidance in building self-esteem/confidence, workplace stress, burnout, relationship problems, setting boundaries, parenting, divorce, racial identity and issues, life transitions and family-related struggles. I also provide tools to overcome anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, family and relational trauma. Through authentic attunement, you can expect to feel seen and embraced for who you are in order to take the necessary steps towards positive change. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them face their shadows in order to uncover opportunities for inner growth and expansion.
Jade Counselling & Wellness
Counsellor, MA, MACP, RCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6H
Do you feel emotionally exhausted trying to figure out your life, career and relationships? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, obsession and panic attacks? Have you experienced physical or sexual abuse, abandonment or neglect? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? Are you struggling with cultural dissonance, racism, oppression, separation or grief? We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a healthy life. People can change, there is hope and answers. Let's walk together towards wellness; and celebrate your successes along the way in an inclusive, safe space with in-person or virtual appointments to suit your schedule.
Do you feel emotionally exhausted trying to figure out your life, career and relationships? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, obsession and panic attacks? Have you experienced physical or sexual abuse, abandonment or neglect? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? Are you struggling with cultural dissonance, racism, oppression, separation or grief? We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a healthy life. People can change, there is hope and answers. Let's walk together towards wellness; and celebrate your successes along the way in an inclusive, safe space with in-person or virtual appointments to suit your schedule.
Are you feeling lost, anxious, or confused? Not being able to cope with everyday life challenges. Or, dealing with an identity crisis and searching for meaning, your unique life purpose? Body, mind, spirit counselling can help to bring emotional balance, heal trauma, and self-defeating behavioural patterns so that you can truly show up the way you want to be in the world and have greater freedom of personal choices, a sense of deeper connection with self, other people, and nature.
Are you feeling lost, anxious, or confused? Not being able to cope with everyday life challenges. Or, dealing with an identity crisis and searching for meaning, your unique life purpose? Body, mind, spirit counselling can help to bring emotional balance, heal trauma, and self-defeating behavioural patterns so that you can truly show up the way you want to be in the world and have greater freedom of personal choices, a sense of deeper connection with self, other people, and nature.
With nearly a decade of experience, my focus has been on helping individuals dealing with mental health and substance use challenges. My chosen specialization has been with children, youth, and parents/caregivers. I believe therapy is for everyone, whether you want to focus on being proactive and building resilience or if you want to heal from past experiences. I provide individual counselling to children, young people, and parents in supporting them in better understanding themselves and others. Most importantly, how to develop secure ways of connecting and building skills to support themselves and/or their loved ones.
With nearly a decade of experience, my focus has been on helping individuals dealing with mental health and substance use challenges. My chosen specialization has been with children, youth, and parents/caregivers. I believe therapy is for everyone, whether you want to focus on being proactive and building resilience or if you want to heal from past experiences. I provide individual counselling to children, young people, and parents in supporting them in better understanding themselves and others. Most importantly, how to develop secure ways of connecting and building skills to support themselves and/or their loved ones.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that we all have the capacity for change and continual growth. No problem is insurmountable, sometimes we just need a little help - whether we feel slightly stuck and need a push to start moving again or feel completely overwhelmed and need someone to help us see things from another perspective. No matter what you are struggling with, my aim as a therapist is to be by your side as you take on this journey of self-discovery and growth.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that we all have the capacity for change and continual growth. No problem is insurmountable, sometimes we just need a little help - whether we feel slightly stuck and need a push to start moving again or feel completely overwhelmed and need someone to help us see things from another perspective. No matter what you are struggling with, my aim as a therapist is to be by your side as you take on this journey of self-discovery and growth.
Andra Adams - Sex Addiction Partner Betrayal
Counsellor, ASAT, RPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Z
Treatment Philosophy - I am committed to providing a safe, non-shaming, non-judgmental, professional and confidential space for those with concerns about the effect that compulsive sexual behaviour is having on their lives, offering support to the individuals acting out, as well as their partners. I believe in facilitating recovery using a step-by-step neurobiological approach, wherein new learning and connections create the fundamental brain shifts required to overcome compulsion, achieving better health and relationships. I honour the uniqueness of all clients' experiences, and the relevance of tradition and orientation in our diverse stories and individual paths to change.
Treatment Philosophy - I am committed to providing a safe, non-shaming, non-judgmental, professional and confidential space for those with concerns about the effect that compulsive sexual behaviour is having on their lives, offering support to the individuals acting out, as well as their partners. I believe in facilitating recovery using a step-by-step neurobiological approach, wherein new learning and connections create the fundamental brain shifts required to overcome compulsion, achieving better health and relationships. I honour the uniqueness of all clients' experiences, and the relevance of tradition and orientation in our diverse stories and individual paths to change.
Relationships can be complex and navigating them can feel daunting, to say the least. When a relationship has been in a state of disconnection for a period of time, it can feel impossible to even know where to begin. It could be that you seem to have the same argument over and over again, your sex life has fizzled out, infidelity, general life changes that have impacted your ability to connect. Or maybe you just feel bored and unsatisfied. I work with people of all genders who are interested in improving their relationships and/or sex life, no matter where they are at. Single, coupled and everywhere in between.
Relationships can be complex and navigating them can feel daunting, to say the least. When a relationship has been in a state of disconnection for a period of time, it can feel impossible to even know where to begin. It could be that you seem to have the same argument over and over again, your sex life has fizzled out, infidelity, general life changes that have impacted your ability to connect. Or maybe you just feel bored and unsatisfied. I work with people of all genders who are interested in improving their relationships and/or sex life, no matter where they are at. Single, coupled and everywhere in between.
You may be in pain and seeking healing, or simply have a sense that life could be better. You probably look to the world as though you are successful and coping well, but you don't feel like that inside. In holding space for you, whatever your needs, I can help you find freedom, creativity, and resilience. I mostly work with professionals, creatives, and students, especially graduate students. Together, we will explore the underlying causes of your challenges, so that you can make choices that are right for you, have healthier relationships, and feel as though you are in the driver's seat of your own life.
You may be in pain and seeking healing, or simply have a sense that life could be better. You probably look to the world as though you are successful and coping well, but you don't feel like that inside. In holding space for you, whatever your needs, I can help you find freedom, creativity, and resilience. I mostly work with professionals, creatives, and students, especially graduate students. Together, we will explore the underlying causes of your challenges, so that you can make choices that are right for you, have healthier relationships, and feel as though you are in the driver's seat of your own life.
See more therapy options for Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver
Nearby Searches for Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver
- Arbutus Ridge
- Downtown
- Fairview
- Kerrisdale
- Kitsilano
- Marpole
- Oakridge
- Riley Park
- Shaughnessy
- South Cambie
- West End
- West Point Grey
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC
10+
Average cost per session
$180
Counsellors in Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC who prioritize treating:
87% | Depression |
87% | Anxiety |
67% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Grief |
67% | Self Esteem |
67% | Stress |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | SunLife |
80% | Manulife |
60% | Green Shield Canada |
How Counsellors in Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver, BC see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Dunbar-Southlands, Vancouver?
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.