Therapists in West Vancouver, BC
![Photo of Parisa Pourang, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46978164-ce39-4241-a407-0160017ea2ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a Registered Clinical Counselor with 15+ years' expertise, providing therapeutic support to individuals, youth, couples, and families. My focus goes beyond symptom treatment; I help individuals achieve personal therapeutic goals. With specialized training, I excel in assisting couples and families in crises. Leading impactful group therapy sessions and conducting workshops, I foster positive changes, guiding clients towards an optimistic lifestyle. Over years of practice, I've honed skills in creating connections, helping clients navigate challenges, and promoting higher well-being.
I'm a Registered Clinical Counselor with 15+ years' expertise, providing therapeutic support to individuals, youth, couples, and families. My focus goes beyond symptom treatment; I help individuals achieve personal therapeutic goals. With specialized training, I excel in assisting couples and families in crises. Leading impactful group therapy sessions and conducting workshops, I foster positive changes, guiding clients towards an optimistic lifestyle. Over years of practice, I've honed skills in creating connections, helping clients navigate challenges, and promoting higher well-being.
![Photo of Howard Wong, PsyD, RCC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a24982-7549-4ddd-a94d-871967ec5fda/1/320x400.png)
Howard Wong
Counsellor, PsyD, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7T (Online Only)
My expertise lies in psychotherapy/counseling for adults, teenagers, children (> 9 years old), and couples with depressive and anxiety disorders, PTSD, grief, substance use, life transitions, self-esteem, parenting and couple relationships, as well as workplace/academic stress. Sessions can be conducted in English, Cantonese and Mandarin
My expertise lies in psychotherapy/counseling for adults, teenagers, children (> 9 years old), and couples with depressive and anxiety disorders, PTSD, grief, substance use, life transitions, self-esteem, parenting and couple relationships, as well as workplace/academic stress. Sessions can be conducted in English, Cantonese and Mandarin
![Photo of Suzanne St John Smith, MA, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/470ff084-d1ba-4738-bf77-1c4e2b9c0f57/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm a West Vancouver psychotherapist in private practice serving West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, and Metro Vancouver. I offer counselling and psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Practice areas include relationship counseling, depression, anxiety, grief counseling, sexuality, separation & divorce, anger management, and mid-life issues.
Hello, I'm a West Vancouver psychotherapist in private practice serving West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, and Metro Vancouver. I offer counselling and psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Practice areas include relationship counseling, depression, anxiety, grief counseling, sexuality, separation & divorce, anger management, and mid-life issues.
![Photo of Negar Parsa, RTC, MA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4febdaa7-7658-462b-83f4-0ca48c3f8893/2/320x400.jpeg)
I know there are times when it feels as if you are sitting in a dark space, waiting for a glimpse of joy. You may be seeking it in your job, income, relationships, or a variety of other external sources; and yet, it seems unreachable. Growing up with several traumas and experiencing severe depression led me to seek my identity in a high profile title in society. As a lawyer with a Master’s degree, I was not happy. Then I faced the tragic loss of my beloved friend. This pain, shook my belief system: How could I live, despite life's difficulties? Life showed me that painful experiences will always open doors to new paths.
I know there are times when it feels as if you are sitting in a dark space, waiting for a glimpse of joy. You may be seeking it in your job, income, relationships, or a variety of other external sources; and yet, it seems unreachable. Growing up with several traumas and experiencing severe depression led me to seek my identity in a high profile title in society. As a lawyer with a Master’s degree, I was not happy. Then I faced the tragic loss of my beloved friend. This pain, shook my belief system: How could I live, despite life's difficulties? Life showed me that painful experiences will always open doors to new paths.
![Photo of Wayne Wong, MA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a040073e-4917-4c56-be0a-7396ec4e72f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Personal growth occurs when a space is created to support individuals, relationships, and families to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, lending to greater meaning in life. My approach aligns with many psychological and coaching frameworks that encourage self-awareness, and introspection. By providing a supportive environment, my clients experience a greater sense of self and personal understanding while gaining an excitement for life that promotes substantial personal well-being.
Personal growth occurs when a space is created to support individuals, relationships, and families to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, lending to greater meaning in life. My approach aligns with many psychological and coaching frameworks that encourage self-awareness, and introspection. By providing a supportive environment, my clients experience a greater sense of self and personal understanding while gaining an excitement for life that promotes substantial personal well-being.
![Photo of Chantelle Syrette - Coastal Synergy Psychotherapy and Counselling Serv, MA, RP, RCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9877b2e-49c2-4fb7-9533-2b97c905a141/2/320x400.jpeg)
Coastal Synergy Psychotherapy and Counselling Serv
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7T (Online Only)
People don't need to be rescued or saved. They need the knowledge of their own power, and how to access it" (unknown) My own unique healing signature comes from using both indigenous way of knowing and by using western modalities. Most of my clients experience symptoms of Complex Post Traumatic Stress. I draw on various modalities that are used to shift energy in mental, behavioral, and psycho-spiritual transformations. As well as being able to look at self, to love self and feel safe enough to stand in their own unique magical self. I practice this daily by owning my unique quirky side of me. We are all sacred.
People don't need to be rescued or saved. They need the knowledge of their own power, and how to access it" (unknown) My own unique healing signature comes from using both indigenous way of knowing and by using western modalities. Most of my clients experience symptoms of Complex Post Traumatic Stress. I draw on various modalities that are used to shift energy in mental, behavioral, and psycho-spiritual transformations. As well as being able to look at self, to love self and feel safe enough to stand in their own unique magical self. I practice this daily by owning my unique quirky side of me. We are all sacred.
![Photo of Joanna Lynch-Lawrenson, RPsych, D Psy, MSc, BSc, AFBPs, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46741e28-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Lynch-Lawrenson
Psychologist, RPsych, D Psy, MSc, BSc, AFBPs
Verified Verified
West Vancouver, BC V7V (Online Only)
I offer support to teens, adults and parents who maybe struggling with issues. Whatever the problem it helps to talk and express oneself. Most people feel the benefit of sharing their concerns and learning to gain strength and trying out new coping strategies or finding other supportive measures to assist personal growth. Therapy can be a positive workout for the mind - just like the gym is for our bodies. I look forward to meeting you.
I offer support to teens, adults and parents who maybe struggling with issues. Whatever the problem it helps to talk and express oneself. Most people feel the benefit of sharing their concerns and learning to gain strength and trying out new coping strategies or finding other supportive measures to assist personal growth. Therapy can be a positive workout for the mind - just like the gym is for our bodies. I look forward to meeting you.
![Photo of Ashleigh Gold, MA, BSc, RCC, RP(q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85ca34c0-6696-4662-bbd7-16bb7a3db4fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashleigh Gold
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BSc, RCC, RP(q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V (Online Only)
I believe everyone possesses the natural ability and strength to grow, change, and heal. By providing a safe and collaborative space for thoughtful conversation, I focuses on understanding your struggle through your eyes.
I believe everyone possesses the natural ability and strength to grow, change, and heal. By providing a safe and collaborative space for thoughtful conversation, I focuses on understanding your struggle through your eyes.
![Photo of Gabriela Gutierrez, MCP, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cb24fcd-add6-4832-a90c-62c6e5867fc3/6/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriela Gutierrez
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
West Vancouver, BC V7T (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I’m Gabriela and I’m so happy you are looking for support. I specialize in addressing issues of trauma, anxiety, and parenting challenges and have specific training in these areas to support you to lighten the heavy loads you no longer want to hold on to. If you have suffered a traumatic experience, gone through a series of challenging situations, struggled with managing your own thoughts, or are just feeling overwhelmed, you don't need to go through this alone. By searching for a counsellor, you are already taking an important step in improving your mental health and I can support you in continuing that journey.
Hi, I’m Gabriela and I’m so happy you are looking for support. I specialize in addressing issues of trauma, anxiety, and parenting challenges and have specific training in these areas to support you to lighten the heavy loads you no longer want to hold on to. If you have suffered a traumatic experience, gone through a series of challenging situations, struggled with managing your own thoughts, or are just feeling overwhelmed, you don't need to go through this alone. By searching for a counsellor, you are already taking an important step in improving your mental health and I can support you in continuing that journey.
![Photo of Marie Muljiani, MC, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcdc2c55-a4ad-4c40-9a2e-e2196996ab21/1/320x400.jpeg)
Change is difficult but made more effective with caring and knowledgeable support. My goal is to support every client in understanding the underlying cause(s) of manifested symptoms (suffering) and create a therapeutic treatment plan to support clients' healing and growth. My clients experience meaningful life changes through our work, significantly increasing their ability to gain effective tools and gain a sense of overall well-being and life satisfaction.
Change is difficult but made more effective with caring and knowledgeable support. My goal is to support every client in understanding the underlying cause(s) of manifested symptoms (suffering) and create a therapeutic treatment plan to support clients' healing and growth. My clients experience meaningful life changes through our work, significantly increasing their ability to gain effective tools and gain a sense of overall well-being and life satisfaction.
![Photo of Sara Khosravi, MA, MSc, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0bf78f2-3175-4a8d-bd50-696f6f494828/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Khosravi
Counsellor, MA, MSc, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Choosing a therapist can be an intimidating process and reaching out for help can be uncomfortable, but we all need support in order to thrive. I am a registered psychotherapist who is deeply committed to supporting those whose lives have been impacted by different life challenges. I’m here to answer your questions and give you the support and guidance you need to overcome and flourish. My counselling history is equipped with a well-rounded education and practice background, and incorporates many cultural perspectives and sensitivities.
Choosing a therapist can be an intimidating process and reaching out for help can be uncomfortable, but we all need support in order to thrive. I am a registered psychotherapist who is deeply committed to supporting those whose lives have been impacted by different life challenges. I’m here to answer your questions and give you the support and guidance you need to overcome and flourish. My counselling history is equipped with a well-rounded education and practice background, and incorporates many cultural perspectives and sensitivities.
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![Photo of Yegi Nasseri, RCC, MA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5113f7b8-1913-4607-b2ce-9c1078238755/2/320x400.jpeg)
“Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion”. Welcome to my page. My Name is Yegi Nasseri and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor offering counselling services to individuals, couples and families. It takes courage to reach out to someone, share personal stories and feel unsure about the counselling process. My own life experiences and previous counselling practices have enabled me to interact and assist individuals and families on issues ranging from trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety and anger management to interpersonal relationship difficulties and substance abuse.
“Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion”. Welcome to my page. My Name is Yegi Nasseri and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor offering counselling services to individuals, couples and families. It takes courage to reach out to someone, share personal stories and feel unsure about the counselling process. My own life experiences and previous counselling practices have enabled me to interact and assist individuals and families on issues ranging from trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety and anger management to interpersonal relationship difficulties and substance abuse.
![Photo of Dr. Sherry H. Ghorbankhani, PsyD, RCC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a14d44a-6791-46e0-864c-b7ae84fed02f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling down or anxious? We all, at some stage in our lives, may face difficult situations and life challenges. It may be related to our relationships, conflicts with family members, loss of a loved one, adaptation, education, or illness. Facing these challenges may lead us to lose hope and focus on daily life tasks and routines. These feelings may lead us to think, nothing will ever change or get better, or there is no bright tomorrow in our future. What’s important is the way we view things and with whom we can share our most personal thoughts, feelings, and fears. I'm here to support you in a non-judgmental way.
Are you feeling down or anxious? We all, at some stage in our lives, may face difficult situations and life challenges. It may be related to our relationships, conflicts with family members, loss of a loved one, adaptation, education, or illness. Facing these challenges may lead us to lose hope and focus on daily life tasks and routines. These feelings may lead us to think, nothing will ever change or get better, or there is no bright tomorrow in our future. What’s important is the way we view things and with whom we can share our most personal thoughts, feelings, and fears. I'm here to support you in a non-judgmental way.
![Photo of Jill Korstrom, PCC, CPCC, BSC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e7791e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you up for some fierce conversation? You are not broken and you do not need fixing! I will hold you as creative, resourceful and whole. Life Coaching is best described as professionally assisted self-mastery. The primary need of most people is not the advice or direction from others. Rather, the primary need of most people is clarification of their own thinking. You are the expert of your own life and I am an expert in curiosity. As a Life & Legacy Coach at Meridian Life Design Inc. (meridianlifedesign.com) my official title is "Truth Teller, Provocateur, Creatrix and Passionado".
Are you up for some fierce conversation? You are not broken and you do not need fixing! I will hold you as creative, resourceful and whole. Life Coaching is best described as professionally assisted self-mastery. The primary need of most people is not the advice or direction from others. Rather, the primary need of most people is clarification of their own thinking. You are the expert of your own life and I am an expert in curiosity. As a Life & Legacy Coach at Meridian Life Design Inc. (meridianlifedesign.com) my official title is "Truth Teller, Provocateur, Creatrix and Passionado".
![Photo of Jessie Bian-Jie Chen, MCP, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5ad77f7-e25c-43d7-824c-756beda20e8e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessie Bian-Jie Chen
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V (Online Only)
Jessie, also known as Bian-Jie (本潔), is a first-generation Taiwanese-Canadian clinical counselor who feels privileged to accompany her clients on their healing journeys. Employing a client-centered collaborative approach, Jessie endeavors to support her clients in achieving their goals. With years of experience in the field, she specializes in working with young adults and adults, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, immigration, bicultural experiences, and self-image concerns. Additionally, Jessie has expertise in working with neurotypical populations, particularly
Jessie, also known as Bian-Jie (本潔), is a first-generation Taiwanese-Canadian clinical counselor who feels privileged to accompany her clients on their healing journeys. Employing a client-centered collaborative approach, Jessie endeavors to support her clients in achieving their goals. With years of experience in the field, she specializes in working with young adults and adults, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, immigration, bicultural experiences, and self-image concerns. Additionally, Jessie has expertise in working with neurotypical populations, particularly
![Photo of Noemie Bessette, RTC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54779aa2-06e8-46aa-8f0e-169bb3eb20b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm Noemie. I am certified and registered as a Therapeutic Counsellor and have previously completed several coaching curriculums, certified as an Executive Coach through Royal Roads University. I support my clients through various life stages, navigating a better understanding of themselves, the life they want to create for themselves, as well as who they want to be in this life. As a mother of two, having navigated complicated relationship dynamics and coming from 20 years corporate career, I'm versatile counsellor, supporting my clients anywhere they hope for growth and moving towards the vision of their dream.
Hello! I'm Noemie. I am certified and registered as a Therapeutic Counsellor and have previously completed several coaching curriculums, certified as an Executive Coach through Royal Roads University. I support my clients through various life stages, navigating a better understanding of themselves, the life they want to create for themselves, as well as who they want to be in this life. As a mother of two, having navigated complicated relationship dynamics and coming from 20 years corporate career, I'm versatile counsellor, supporting my clients anywhere they hope for growth and moving towards the vision of their dream.
![Photo of Kathy Merabian, MA, RCC, CPF, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ce93a0b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Choosing the right counsellor for yourself or your child is not easy, yet a trusting and comfortable relationship with your counsellor is fundamental to success. I make it my priority to establish an open, honest and warm relationship with my clients. Next, I use effective and concrete interventions to address the specific goals my clients present to me. Together we come up with a plan which we follow for the duration of our work together. If you are motivated and want to make concrete changes in your life, I may be the right fit for you.
Choosing the right counsellor for yourself or your child is not easy, yet a trusting and comfortable relationship with your counsellor is fundamental to success. I make it my priority to establish an open, honest and warm relationship with my clients. Next, I use effective and concrete interventions to address the specific goals my clients present to me. Together we come up with a plan which we follow for the duration of our work together. If you are motivated and want to make concrete changes in your life, I may be the right fit for you.
![Photo of Jo-Anne Weiler, MA, (Psych), RMFT, RCC, CPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d505f42-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jo-Anne Weiler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, (Psych), RMFT, RCC, CPCC
Verified Verified
West Vancouver, BC V7T
What I hear most in my practise is that people want more meaning in their lives, in their work and in their loving relationships. According to current trends, anxiety and depression is on the rise. According to the Canadian Mood Disorders report 2008, 1 in 5 Canadians will have a mental illness over their lifetime. We may have become too focused on the results and lost sight of the process. The better we feel about ourselves because we are practising great lifestyle habits and relating meaningfully, soulfully, the more in the 'zone' we feel day to day.
What I hear most in my practise is that people want more meaning in their lives, in their work and in their loving relationships. According to current trends, anxiety and depression is on the rise. According to the Canadian Mood Disorders report 2008, 1 in 5 Canadians will have a mental illness over their lifetime. We may have become too focused on the results and lost sight of the process. The better we feel about ourselves because we are practising great lifestyle habits and relating meaningfully, soulfully, the more in the 'zone' we feel day to day.
![Photo of Forooz Shamloo, BFA, MC-At, RCC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7e6193b-6fcf-41e0-931e-324f71cac8c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a clinical counsellor and art therapist, I support clients dealing with anxiety, depression, body image dissatisfaction, relational issues, and life transitions. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for expressing their challenges. I address the root causes of emotional difficulties, guiding them towards a positive body image and navigating relationships. Integrating evidence-based modalities with holistic ones like restorative yoga, trauma-informed yoga, mindfulness, and art therapy, I offer my clients the opportunity to develop coping strategies and foster personal growth, emotional well-being, and resilience.
As a clinical counsellor and art therapist, I support clients dealing with anxiety, depression, body image dissatisfaction, relational issues, and life transitions. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for expressing their challenges. I address the root causes of emotional difficulties, guiding them towards a positive body image and navigating relationships. Integrating evidence-based modalities with holistic ones like restorative yoga, trauma-informed yoga, mindfulness, and art therapy, I offer my clients the opportunity to develop coping strategies and foster personal growth, emotional well-being, and resilience.
![Photo of Alyson Jones - Alyson Jones & Associates, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42af6370-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We believe that you can get MORE out of your life and that we are the team who can assist you in this discovery. We provide a wide range of services that can lead you towards improved relationships, growth, personal exploration, and an increased balance in your life. Some may wish to regain balance after a traumatic life event or to remedy an inherent challenge they may have been coping with for years.
We believe that you can get MORE out of your life and that we are the team who can assist you in this discovery. We provide a wide range of services that can lead you towards improved relationships, growth, personal exploration, and an increased balance in your life. Some may wish to regain balance after a traumatic life event or to remedy an inherent challenge they may have been coping with for years.
See more therapy options for West Vancouver
Nearby Searches for West Vancouver
- Burnaby
- Coquitlam
- Delta
- Maple Ridge
- New Westminster
- North Vancouver
- Pitt Meadows
- Port Coquitlam
- Port Moody
- Richmond
- Surrey
- Vancouver
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in West Vancouver, BC
200+
Average cost per session
$150
Counsellors in West Vancouver, BC who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
84% | Depression |
82% | Relationship Issues |
77% | Self Esteem |
77% | Stress |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
55% | SunLife |
47% | Pacific Blue Cross |
38% | Other |
How Counsellors in West Vancouver, BC see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in West 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.