Therapists in Kelowna, BC
![Photo of Naomi Laurin, BA Psyc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0763d15-4f33-47d9-987a-3b75d78cccc4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have always enjoyed connecting with and learning from others; this has driven my passion for mental health support for many years. Before completing my Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work, I worked with my local rural fire department as a paid-on-call firefighter for nearly 8 years. I was consistently humbled throughout my experiences by the resilience and camaraderie engrained in first responder culture. I believe in the importance of having clinicians who 'get what we do', ultimately leading me to combine two of my passions (firefighting & mental health) and become one.
I have always enjoyed connecting with and learning from others; this has driven my passion for mental health support for many years. Before completing my Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work, I worked with my local rural fire department as a paid-on-call firefighter for nearly 8 years. I was consistently humbled throughout my experiences by the resilience and camaraderie engrained in first responder culture. I believe in the importance of having clinicians who 'get what we do', ultimately leading me to combine two of my passions (firefighting & mental health) and become one.
![Photo of Christina Depever, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/145bb8d8-0f7f-40ef-a458-3766577c7d60/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling lost, struggling with your sense of self-worth, and who you want to be in relation to yourself, your relationships, and your community? As a counsellor I have the capacity to provide insight, make connections, and guide you through the journey of seeking the truth of who you are and what you want to be in this life. I will see you (and address) the obvious concerns that brought you here, and also dig at the roots, the underlying issues that you may not be aware of. If you are looking for a counsellor to challenge you in a kind, compassionate way, I'm your gal.
Are you feeling lost, struggling with your sense of self-worth, and who you want to be in relation to yourself, your relationships, and your community? As a counsellor I have the capacity to provide insight, make connections, and guide you through the journey of seeking the truth of who you are and what you want to be in this life. I will see you (and address) the obvious concerns that brought you here, and also dig at the roots, the underlying issues that you may not be aware of. If you are looking for a counsellor to challenge you in a kind, compassionate way, I'm your gal.
![Photo of Domonique Murdoch, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4a8f898-fbed-498f-9281-2fc5779257fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone experiences challenging times in their lives. Taking the first steps towards healing can be difficult, but I would be honoured to support you along your wellness journey. I prioritize providing a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions. My counselling approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to empowering individuals on their journey toward personal growth and well-being.
Everyone experiences challenging times in their lives. Taking the first steps towards healing can be difficult, but I would be honoured to support you along your wellness journey. I prioritize providing a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions. My counselling approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to empowering individuals on their journey toward personal growth and well-being.
![Photo of Pamela Plain, MSW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/434327df-a7b9-40d2-84ac-fe6d183badad/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a Masters level Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW) with over 17 years experience in Mental Health. I work with individuals experiencing Perfectionism/burnout, Relationship Issues, Narcissistic Abuse, ADHD and major life transitions. My extensive training in DBT, CBT, Depth Psychology and Existential Therapy allows me to tailor my approach to your unique needs and goals. I forge deep authentic relationships with my clients that promote their growth and self understanding. As a Registered Clinical Social Worker I can diagnose mental health conditions and tackle complex issues with sensitivity and competency.
I’m a Masters level Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW) with over 17 years experience in Mental Health. I work with individuals experiencing Perfectionism/burnout, Relationship Issues, Narcissistic Abuse, ADHD and major life transitions. My extensive training in DBT, CBT, Depth Psychology and Existential Therapy allows me to tailor my approach to your unique needs and goals. I forge deep authentic relationships with my clients that promote their growth and self understanding. As a Registered Clinical Social Worker I can diagnose mental health conditions and tackle complex issues with sensitivity and competency.
![Photo of Tricia Veltri, MC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b06e196c-cb4b-4b86-ba7b-63cac201814c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in helping individuals heal from toxic repetitive relationships, complex trauma, anxiety, and PTSD. Maybe you are looking for a therapist to help you get to the core root of your issues, so you can stop repeating the same toxic relationship patterns. Or someone who will give you space to grieve because you are heartbroken that your relationship fell apart. Perhaps, you want concrete tools you can use when panic takes your breath away, or when anxiety tells you that every situation you're in will end in disaster? Or maybe, past traumatic memories keep haunting you from living fully in the present. I can help!
I specialize in helping individuals heal from toxic repetitive relationships, complex trauma, anxiety, and PTSD. Maybe you are looking for a therapist to help you get to the core root of your issues, so you can stop repeating the same toxic relationship patterns. Or someone who will give you space to grieve because you are heartbroken that your relationship fell apart. Perhaps, you want concrete tools you can use when panic takes your breath away, or when anxiety tells you that every situation you're in will end in disaster? Or maybe, past traumatic memories keep haunting you from living fully in the present. I can help!
![Photo of Monika Ulrich, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46f0978d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life can sometimes feel like a rough sea and counselling can help you navigate the turbulent waters. It is my goal to provide a space where you can work through challenging issues and provide support to navigate these areas of your life. I will support you by acknowledging your unique experiences and struggles with life circumstances, inviting you to explore new ways of coping. It is my belief that connecting to the body, using techniques such as breathing, noticing sensations, and recognizing how sensations are linked to feelings often provides insight and are powerful resources to work through emotions.
Life can sometimes feel like a rough sea and counselling can help you navigate the turbulent waters. It is my goal to provide a space where you can work through challenging issues and provide support to navigate these areas of your life. I will support you by acknowledging your unique experiences and struggles with life circumstances, inviting you to explore new ways of coping. It is my belief that connecting to the body, using techniques such as breathing, noticing sensations, and recognizing how sensations are linked to feelings often provides insight and are powerful resources to work through emotions.
![Photo of Mykhaylo Mike Petrynyak, MACP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a715801c-0661-4e8e-a62c-ffdc74794835/3/320x400.jpeg)
I offer low-fee therapy for those without insurance coverage in my capacity as a Pre-Licensed Therapist completing the last 50% of my clinical hours toward licensing. If money has been the only thing holding you back from taking charge of your life, let me help!
I offer low-fee therapy for those without insurance coverage in my capacity as a Pre-Licensed Therapist completing the last 50% of my clinical hours toward licensing. If money has been the only thing holding you back from taking charge of your life, let me help!
![Photo of Ty McGuire-Scagnetti, RSW, MSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eff47c2e-0748-4e84-bac7-b3a593839f97/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers along with the British Columbia College of Social Workers. My education includes an Honours Bachelor of Social Work from Lakehead University and a Master of Social Work from the University of British Columbia Okanagan. I work with Youth and young adults aged approximately 14-30 on topics of substance misuse and recovery, relationships, family challenges, life changes/transitions, stress, ADHD, and anxiety. Some other areas of specialization are Depression, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Self-esteem.
I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers along with the British Columbia College of Social Workers. My education includes an Honours Bachelor of Social Work from Lakehead University and a Master of Social Work from the University of British Columbia Okanagan. I work with Youth and young adults aged approximately 14-30 on topics of substance misuse and recovery, relationships, family challenges, life changes/transitions, stress, ADHD, and anxiety. Some other areas of specialization are Depression, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Self-esteem.
![Photo of Lisa Ann Butcher - Three Sisters Counselling Inc., MACP, RCC, BPEH, RT, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/551e184a-9b29-4586-a4bb-fb1453e44575/1/320x400.jpeg)
Three Sisters Counselling Inc.
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, BPEH, RT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
We believe the client + counsellor must fit, so we have multiple practitioners with two locations so you can choose a therapist with whom you connect. We are an all-female team who understands you on both a personal and professional level. Our counselling styles can be described as empathic & solution-focused. We provide an environment free from judgement and invite you to start exactly where you are!
We believe the client + counsellor must fit, so we have multiple practitioners with two locations so you can choose a therapist with whom you connect. We are an all-female team who understands you on both a personal and professional level. Our counselling styles can be described as empathic & solution-focused. We provide an environment free from judgement and invite you to start exactly where you are!
![Photo of Sandy Boon, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a229669-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Although not all of the last 30+ years of Sandy's professional career has been spent exclusively practicing therapy, Sandy has passionately helped children, families, couples and corporations through her work as an educator, therapist, consultant and ardent volunteer in the area of Mental Health. Sandy develops a therapeutic relationship with her clients that is respectful, and collaborative. She helps clients focus on creating solutions while intensely listening and understanding the individuals thoughts and behaviours within the context of their culture and unique story.
Although not all of the last 30+ years of Sandy's professional career has been spent exclusively practicing therapy, Sandy has passionately helped children, families, couples and corporations through her work as an educator, therapist, consultant and ardent volunteer in the area of Mental Health. Sandy develops a therapeutic relationship with her clients that is respectful, and collaborative. She helps clients focus on creating solutions while intensely listening and understanding the individuals thoughts and behaviours within the context of their culture and unique story.
![Photo of Vern Ward, BA, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f50d84c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My clients are regular people who find themselves stuck - emotionally (negative emotions), personally (self-esteem), or relationally (conflict/communication). I work with my clients to help them experience freedom in these areas. My clients get results quickly because I use a proven system guaranteed to get them unstuck. Skeptical? That's okay, because I have a money-back satisfaction guarantee. I offer that because I know that if you can understand the underlying dynamics of your emotions, then change can start during the first session. Free consultation! You have nothing to lose, and only your freedom to gain. Call today!
My clients are regular people who find themselves stuck - emotionally (negative emotions), personally (self-esteem), or relationally (conflict/communication). I work with my clients to help them experience freedom in these areas. My clients get results quickly because I use a proven system guaranteed to get them unstuck. Skeptical? That's okay, because I have a money-back satisfaction guarantee. I offer that because I know that if you can understand the underlying dynamics of your emotions, then change can start during the first session. Free consultation! You have nothing to lose, and only your freedom to gain. Call today!
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![Photo of Leanne G Smith, MA, ATR, NCC, RCC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/499af182-2ac1-46d0-b2d5-d810e3c1c13a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated professional with over 25 years of experience as a Nationally Certified Counsellor, Mental Health Clinician, and Registered Art Therapist, specializing in working with children, youth, and families. I am also a member of the B.C. Association of Clinical Counsellors, the American Art Therapy Association, and I hold a B.C. teaching certificate. My approach to therapy is client-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed, creating a compassionate, non-judgmental, and inclusive atmosphere where individuals and families can explore their challenges and experiences.
I am a dedicated professional with over 25 years of experience as a Nationally Certified Counsellor, Mental Health Clinician, and Registered Art Therapist, specializing in working with children, youth, and families. I am also a member of the B.C. Association of Clinical Counsellors, the American Art Therapy Association, and I hold a B.C. teaching certificate. My approach to therapy is client-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed, creating a compassionate, non-judgmental, and inclusive atmosphere where individuals and families can explore their challenges and experiences.
![Photo of Chanelle Febre, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb3c40b-71bb-4c0d-ab13-d2408cdf2897/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you're feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or isolated, counselling can offer support during challenging times and help you seek growth and change. With 7 years of experience as a Registered Social Worker (RSW), I assist clients in gaining self-awareness and achieving personal growth. Therapy is about being heard, understood, and finding new ways to make choices that lead you toward the life you envision. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
If you're feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or isolated, counselling can offer support during challenging times and help you seek growth and change. With 7 years of experience as a Registered Social Worker (RSW), I assist clients in gaining self-awareness and achieving personal growth. Therapy is about being heard, understood, and finding new ways to make choices that lead you toward the life you envision. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
![Photo of Michael Towers - Michael Towers Counselling, MA MFC, RMFT-S, RCC-ACS, CCS, CPC-S, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1ced0d8-9406-403e-8414-399304380aff/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Towers Counselling
Counsellor, MA MFC, RMFT-S, RCC-ACS, CCS, CPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
My non-pathologizing approach to counselling means that I never see the client as the problem - the problem is the problem and I use this approach in every aspect of the counselling journey. The client that seeks me out is looking for help over life-controlling problems that are impacting their life in very disruptive ways. They are seeking to discover who they are and to find healing from trauma that continues to be disruptive to a fulfilling life. They are often trying to navigate the complexities of various relationships in their lives while establishing for themselves healthy boundaries and learning how to respect their 'no'.
My non-pathologizing approach to counselling means that I never see the client as the problem - the problem is the problem and I use this approach in every aspect of the counselling journey. The client that seeks me out is looking for help over life-controlling problems that are impacting their life in very disruptive ways. They are seeking to discover who they are and to find healing from trauma that continues to be disruptive to a fulfilling life. They are often trying to navigate the complexities of various relationships in their lives while establishing for themselves healthy boundaries and learning how to respect their 'no'.
![Photo of Lucy Snider, MA hons, PgDip, MSc, RCC-ACS, COSRT, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a230921-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lucy Snider
Counsellor, MA hons, PgDip, MSc, RCC-ACS, COSRT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Are you looking for sex therapy, relationship therapy or couples counselling? Are you struggling with a sexual problem and don't know who to talk to? Are you having difficulties in your current relationship or are you worried about previous or future relationships? Are you struggling with a recent STI diagnosis? We all experience difficulties with sex and relationships but it can be hard to discuss these sensitive topics with friends or loved ones. Common issues that bring clients to see me are problems with sexual function or desire, difficulties with communication or conflict resolution or feeling stuck in your relationship.
Are you looking for sex therapy, relationship therapy or couples counselling? Are you struggling with a sexual problem and don't know who to talk to? Are you having difficulties in your current relationship or are you worried about previous or future relationships? Are you struggling with a recent STI diagnosis? We all experience difficulties with sex and relationships but it can be hard to discuss these sensitive topics with friends or loved ones. Common issues that bring clients to see me are problems with sexual function or desire, difficulties with communication or conflict resolution or feeling stuck in your relationship.
![Photo of Keirsten Provost - Keirsten Provost Counselling, MPCC, RPC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c52983d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anxious, Confused and Gaslit? Victim of Narcissistic abuse? Abuse in close relationships, family, friends or work, can cause anxiety, depression, divorce and loss of self. Need help navigating the unique challenges of today's world? Many of my clients are in their 20's, 30's & 40's. I help my clients recognize patterns, understand behaviours, explore difficult decisions, and gently guide them along their indivudal critical path. I listen, help heal, and assist clients move beyond the emotional issues they are experiencing. My approach is empathetic, validating, supportive, and solution-based.
Anxious, Confused and Gaslit? Victim of Narcissistic abuse? Abuse in close relationships, family, friends or work, can cause anxiety, depression, divorce and loss of self. Need help navigating the unique challenges of today's world? Many of my clients are in their 20's, 30's & 40's. I help my clients recognize patterns, understand behaviours, explore difficult decisions, and gently guide them along their indivudal critical path. I listen, help heal, and assist clients move beyond the emotional issues they are experiencing. My approach is empathetic, validating, supportive, and solution-based.
![Photo of Kristie Burkett, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/975b965a-2cf9-47d9-9b93-72aa92e6b802/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristie Burkett
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1W (Online Only)
Starting therapy can feel a bit awkward, but I'm here to make you feel comfortable and at ease. As a busy parent managing work, childcare, and personal time, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you're looking to improve your self-care, strengthen your relationship with your partner (or navigate the challenges of finding a new one!), my goal is to help you improve your relationships, reduce stress, and feel confident and supported in your parenting journey. Whether you’re a new parent or experienced, here, you'll find a safe, non-judgmental space with a warm, friendly therapist who is ready to support and encourage you.
Starting therapy can feel a bit awkward, but I'm here to make you feel comfortable and at ease. As a busy parent managing work, childcare, and personal time, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you're looking to improve your self-care, strengthen your relationship with your partner (or navigate the challenges of finding a new one!), my goal is to help you improve your relationships, reduce stress, and feel confident and supported in your parenting journey. Whether you’re a new parent or experienced, here, you'll find a safe, non-judgmental space with a warm, friendly therapist who is ready to support and encourage you.
![Photo of Rayen McLeod, MSW, RCC, RSW, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a75a5ef1-ff5f-439e-a3e8-4b05b1d6f698/1/320x400.jpeg)
I welcome clients who are navigating complex issues surrounding sexual health, relationships, and personal growth. Whether individuals or couples, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space for exploration and healing. I assist individuals seeking support in understanding their feelings, gaining insight into their experiences, and developing healthier coping strategies. Together, we work towards goals such as resolving specific issues, building resilience, improving communication skills, and fostering deeper connections with themselves and others.
I welcome clients who are navigating complex issues surrounding sexual health, relationships, and personal growth. Whether individuals or couples, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space for exploration and healing. I assist individuals seeking support in understanding their feelings, gaining insight into their experiences, and developing healthier coping strategies. Together, we work towards goals such as resolving specific issues, building resilience, improving communication skills, and fostering deeper connections with themselves and others.
![Photo of Dan Smith, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cbba05b-948b-4077-9afc-32c530c197c2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you need support through a significant life event, you're having unkind thoughts about yourself or others and want to work through them, or you are just generally feeling unwell and want to regain balance – therapy allows someone to walk with you on that journey. You may have days where you feel low, nervous, unmotivated, or lost. Those can get in the way of your enjoyment, your relationships, or you just being at your best. I work with individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds, placing intentional focus on folks who identify within the IBPOC, queer, gay/lesbian, trans, and other underserved communities.
Whether you need support through a significant life event, you're having unkind thoughts about yourself or others and want to work through them, or you are just generally feeling unwell and want to regain balance – therapy allows someone to walk with you on that journey. You may have days where you feel low, nervous, unmotivated, or lost. Those can get in the way of your enjoyment, your relationships, or you just being at your best. I work with individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds, placing intentional focus on folks who identify within the IBPOC, queer, gay/lesbian, trans, and other underserved communities.
![Photo of Harpal Kaur Malhi, MSW, RSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a325638-eb5e-49f3-81e8-7e42424ae0f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Harpal Kaur Malhi
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1X (Online Only)
I am here to listen when you are ready to share your story. I have over seven years of experience working with children, youth, and families in various therapeutic roles. I have supported individuals struggling with anxiety, low mood, gender and sexual orientation issues, and many other concerns. I support clients using a holistic model of practice that is evidence-based and client-centered. I draw upon various therapeutic frameworks to best match the needs of the client. Also, as a racialized woman belonging to the LGBTQ2S+ community, I have a unique ability to hold space for my clients who may be unheard and marginalized.
I am here to listen when you are ready to share your story. I have over seven years of experience working with children, youth, and families in various therapeutic roles. I have supported individuals struggling with anxiety, low mood, gender and sexual orientation issues, and many other concerns. I support clients using a holistic model of practice that is evidence-based and client-centered. I draw upon various therapeutic frameworks to best match the needs of the client. Also, as a racialized woman belonging to the LGBTQ2S+ community, I have a unique ability to hold space for my clients who may be unheard and marginalized.
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See More CounsellorsHow does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Kelowna, BC
400+
Average cost per session
$150
Counsellors in Kelowna, BC who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
84% | Depression |
79% | Relationship Issues |
77% | Self Esteem |
75% | Stress |
68% | Coping Skills |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
49% | Green Shield Canada |
49% | Pacific Blue Cross |
47% | SunLife |
How Counsellors in Kelowna, BC see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
14% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Kelowna?
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.