Therapists in Ottawa, ON
I am a servant-leader, having retired as a Major with 16 years of service in the Canadian Armed Forces. While serving, I gained significant experience in vocational counselling for military personnel at all rank levels, including wounded soldiers and people transitioning from military to civilian life. With a firm belief in the innate worth of each person, I am passionate about respecting each person’s dignity and ideas while walking alongside them in their healing journey.
I am a servant-leader, having retired as a Major with 16 years of service in the Canadian Armed Forces. While serving, I gained significant experience in vocational counselling for military personnel at all rank levels, including wounded soldiers and people transitioning from military to civilian life. With a firm belief in the innate worth of each person, I am passionate about respecting each person’s dignity and ideas while walking alongside them in their healing journey.
Emily Light
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
Are you looking for a confidential and non-judgmental space to vent or problem solve? I believe that everyone has a sense of autonomy and resilience, and sometimes a supportive environment is needed to reinforce those strengths that are within each one of us. I view the therapeutic process according to the client-centered framework, which places empathy and unconditional positive regard at the forefront. I combine this humanistic approach with cognitive techniques from approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing.
Are you looking for a confidential and non-judgmental space to vent or problem solve? I believe that everyone has a sense of autonomy and resilience, and sometimes a supportive environment is needed to reinforce those strengths that are within each one of us. I view the therapeutic process according to the client-centered framework, which places empathy and unconditional positive regard at the forefront. I combine this humanistic approach with cognitive techniques from approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing.
Alyssa Short
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, CCC, PMH-C, CTS-I, RYT-200
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Navigating Your Inner Forest: Sustainable Growth Through EMDR, Relationship Support, and Holistic Psychotherapy: Life can feel like walking through a dense forest—on the surface, everything looks vibrant, yet deep inside, you may feel lost, anxious, or disconnected. I work with individuals who seem to manage life’s demands but struggle with emotional unrest. Whether it’s past trauma, relationship challenges, or transitions like perinatal or peri/menopause, I offer support to help you find clarity, emotional balance, and stronger connections. Together, we’ll clear a path towards deeper self-understanding and lasting change.
Navigating Your Inner Forest: Sustainable Growth Through EMDR, Relationship Support, and Holistic Psychotherapy: Life can feel like walking through a dense forest—on the surface, everything looks vibrant, yet deep inside, you may feel lost, anxious, or disconnected. I work with individuals who seem to manage life’s demands but struggle with emotional unrest. Whether it’s past trauma, relationship challenges, or transitions like perinatal or peri/menopause, I offer support to help you find clarity, emotional balance, and stronger connections. Together, we’ll clear a path towards deeper self-understanding and lasting change.
Amanda Feige
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CSTIP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S (Online Only)
Relationships are at the core of feeling love and belonging. However, when our relationships are functioning poorly we can experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, or anger. In this space, we will explore how early life relationships shaped your attachment, communication, and conflict patterns to connect them to the impact they are having in your current life. From there, we can develop healthy new patterns. I also work with couples on their communication, boundaries, intimacy, meeting needs, and trust. Together you will learn to communicate safely and predictably and co-create your ideal intimate life.
Relationships are at the core of feeling love and belonging. However, when our relationships are functioning poorly we can experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, or anger. In this space, we will explore how early life relationships shaped your attachment, communication, and conflict patterns to connect them to the impact they are having in your current life. From there, we can develop healthy new patterns. I also work with couples on their communication, boundaries, intimacy, meeting needs, and trust. Together you will learn to communicate safely and predictably and co-create your ideal intimate life.
Alex Varsaneux
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), MEd
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S
We are all on a continual journey of growth and change. Therapy can be an invaluable tool to support you in making decisions that are right for you, in a way that is reflective of your goals and needs. As your therapist, I will be guided by what works best for you, whether that be exploring and understanding your inner world, developing coping skills, navigating relationships or addressing any other concern that you may have.
We are all on a continual journey of growth and change. Therapy can be an invaluable tool to support you in making decisions that are right for you, in a way that is reflective of your goals and needs. As your therapist, I will be guided by what works best for you, whether that be exploring and understanding your inner world, developing coping skills, navigating relationships or addressing any other concern that you may have.
Lauren Tansley
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
Today’s realities can be hard to understand and navigate. Experiences might leave you feeling anxious, depressed, stuck, or empty. It can be encouraging to know that you can receive support and guidance to progress through life more peacefully. My role as a psychotherapist is to empower you towards greater self-understanding to help you embrace your authentic self, cultivate meaningful connections with others, and lead a more fulfilling, harmonious life. I strongly believe in the power of human resilience and the capacity for growth and change.
Today’s realities can be hard to understand and navigate. Experiences might leave you feeling anxious, depressed, stuck, or empty. It can be encouraging to know that you can receive support and guidance to progress through life more peacefully. My role as a psychotherapist is to empower you towards greater self-understanding to help you embrace your authentic self, cultivate meaningful connections with others, and lead a more fulfilling, harmonious life. I strongly believe in the power of human resilience and the capacity for growth and change.
My goal is to provide a warm and comfortable environment where we can work towards helping you develop robust strategies to manage the challenges in your life. I approach treatment as a collaborative endeavor where your needs and limitations are always given priority. This includes the careful timing and pacing of interventions, and frequent feedback to ensure that we are working towards achieving your goals. I have been in autonomous practice for about 15 years and have trained dozens of psychologists in my work as a University Professor of Clinical Psychology. I am happy to offer services in both English and French.
My goal is to provide a warm and comfortable environment where we can work towards helping you develop robust strategies to manage the challenges in your life. I approach treatment as a collaborative endeavor where your needs and limitations are always given priority. This includes the careful timing and pacing of interventions, and frequent feedback to ensure that we are working towards achieving your goals. I have been in autonomous practice for about 15 years and have trained dozens of psychologists in my work as a University Professor of Clinical Psychology. I am happy to offer services in both English and French.
Noelle Hansen
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA, DMD
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1L (Online Only)
For many years, the people who have ended up in Noelle's care are folks who have been harmed by the healthcare and educational systems. Invalidation, medical gaslighting, lack of services, long wait times, it can all add up to a pretty brutal experience where you are left feeling like no one understands or cares. Life can be a jerk to those of us who feel "different" due to pain, health issues, neurodivergence, etc. If this has been your experience, you need the right kind of support.
For many years, the people who have ended up in Noelle's care are folks who have been harmed by the healthcare and educational systems. Invalidation, medical gaslighting, lack of services, long wait times, it can all add up to a pretty brutal experience where you are left feeling like no one understands or cares. Life can be a jerk to those of us who feel "different" due to pain, health issues, neurodivergence, etc. If this has been your experience, you need the right kind of support.
Many of us go through various phases within our lives and we may not always know how to navigate difficult situations. Working collaboratively can help in recognizing unhealthy and healthy behaviours that are meeting needs or hindering your well being.
Many of us go through various phases within our lives and we may not always know how to navigate difficult situations. Working collaboratively can help in recognizing unhealthy and healthy behaviours that are meeting needs or hindering your well being.
Shontelle Prokipcak
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW, CCAC, CCS-AC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
I have been providing collaborative mental health and addiction services for youth, adolescents and adults in the Ottawa Region for the past 18 years. I work closely with individuals and families to identify the best treatment plans to meet their unique needs. Some techniques I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Collaborative Problem Solving, Mindfulness Integrated CBT, Trauma Practice and Addiction Issues. I use an assertive care approach which can provide some support between sessions, as needed, for clients to meet their goals with non-life-threatening mental health challenges. Many clients have found this very helpful.
I have been providing collaborative mental health and addiction services for youth, adolescents and adults in the Ottawa Region for the past 18 years. I work closely with individuals and families to identify the best treatment plans to meet their unique needs. Some techniques I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Collaborative Problem Solving, Mindfulness Integrated CBT, Trauma Practice and Addiction Issues. I use an assertive care approach which can provide some support between sessions, as needed, for clients to meet their goals with non-life-threatening mental health challenges. Many clients have found this very helpful.
We live in a world that often doesn't recognize who we are, especially if you are queer, trans, neurodivergent. Whether you are one of those, or all three, I am right there with you. You might be wondering who you are or you might already know. You might have experienced trauma. You might be dealing with organizational challenges, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and issues with your family of origin. You might be an individual, a monogamous couple, or in a non-monogamous relationship configuration. Wading through all of these issues can be difficult at the best of times, but I am here to help.
We live in a world that often doesn't recognize who we are, especially if you are queer, trans, neurodivergent. Whether you are one of those, or all three, I am right there with you. You might be wondering who you are or you might already know. You might have experienced trauma. You might be dealing with organizational challenges, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and issues with your family of origin. You might be an individual, a monogamous couple, or in a non-monogamous relationship configuration. Wading through all of these issues can be difficult at the best of times, but I am here to help.
15 Second Videos
Emily Light
Jeff Shepherd
Max Morozkin
Philippa Klein
Ghadir Kawar
Danica Kaplan
Amanda Ruthman
Pete Kelly
Symone De Bellotte
Noémie Mary Irène Kyryluk
Zhongjie Bao
Maureen Hannah Maher Clinical Counsellor Hypnotherapist Emdr
Francesca Dattilo
Maryanne Nicholls
Danielle Bigras
Catherine Dwyer
A Couples Relationship Marriage Date | MSW + RSW
Virtual CBT Psychotherapy
Benilda Formoso
Toyibat Oyeleye
Anne Theriault
Kayla Spicer
Cheryl O'Neill
Brittany Fletcher
Jennifer Goodfellow
Sabrina Medinski
Fatène Bader
Christie Lim
Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Clinic Canada
Dilys Chuinkam
Monica Mohareb
Mara Toombs
David Oluwajuyigbe
SolutionFIrst Therapy
Jacob Pollack
Jasmine Brar
Kevin Chaves
Andrea Kalentzis
Emily MacQuarrie
Emily Davison
Stefanie Oppenheimer
Kayla Vander Ploeg
Kristie Brassard @ Kaleidoscope Counselling Collective 🌈
Zara Arshad
Fran Isaacs
Marc James Whitehouse
Dilys Chuinkam: Ogunlana Psychotherapy
Sarah Good
Homa Tabar
Irish Dhindsa
Experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety? Having a hard time overcoming your past? Therapy can help. I’m a kind, passionate and experienced counsellor based in Ottawa offering psychotherapy to adult individuals. My goal is to help you get curious about what’s getting in the way of your mental health, and to find clarity, acceptance and motivation to start feeling better. My work is trauma-informed and you can expect to feel safe, accepted and empowered in session. Visit my website for a video about me, what to expect in session, and how to book.
Experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety? Having a hard time overcoming your past? Therapy can help. I’m a kind, passionate and experienced counsellor based in Ottawa offering psychotherapy to adult individuals. My goal is to help you get curious about what’s getting in the way of your mental health, and to find clarity, acceptance and motivation to start feeling better. My work is trauma-informed and you can expect to feel safe, accepted and empowered in session. Visit my website for a video about me, what to expect in session, and how to book.
Are you struggling with substance use and feeling disconnected from others? Are you looking to improve relationships, mood and personal well being? Using a realistic, non judgmental approach, I help my clients overcome issues of addiction, anxiety, ADHD and PTSD to explore resiliency and rewrite your narrative. I believe by being honest, giving feedback and feeling understood and validated, you are more able to accept yourself and better understand your needs. I can help you move away from the scripts you have learned and discover a desirable and measurable change. I offer a free 15 min video/ phone consultation to new clients.
Are you struggling with substance use and feeling disconnected from others? Are you looking to improve relationships, mood and personal well being? Using a realistic, non judgmental approach, I help my clients overcome issues of addiction, anxiety, ADHD and PTSD to explore resiliency and rewrite your narrative. I believe by being honest, giving feedback and feeling understood and validated, you are more able to accept yourself and better understand your needs. I can help you move away from the scripts you have learned and discover a desirable and measurable change. I offer a free 15 min video/ phone consultation to new clients.
I own and operate a group private practice, Ricci & Associates. Our psychologists, neuropsychologists and psychotherapists offer assessment and treatment of a variety of mental health issues. We offer psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessments to help you better understand the nature of your difficulties and how best to manage them. We are dedicated to providing you with an accessible, inclusive and personalized environment where you can feel safe to explore the challenges you face. We offer client centered, evidence-based treatments for individuals, couples and families.
I own and operate a group private practice, Ricci & Associates. Our psychologists, neuropsychologists and psychotherapists offer assessment and treatment of a variety of mental health issues. We offer psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessments to help you better understand the nature of your difficulties and how best to manage them. We are dedicated to providing you with an accessible, inclusive and personalized environment where you can feel safe to explore the challenges you face. We offer client centered, evidence-based treatments for individuals, couples and families.
Dr. Heney is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Ottawa, Ontario, with both a Ph.D. in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work. Her approach centres on promoting personal growth and empowerment. She works collaboratively with clients to establish an effective therapeutic program that helps them improve their sense of well-being and reach their life goals. With couples, Dr. Heney works on bringing partners from conflict to mutual respect, understanding, and appreciation.
Dr. Heney is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Ottawa, Ontario, with both a Ph.D. in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work. Her approach centres on promoting personal growth and empowerment. She works collaboratively with clients to establish an effective therapeutic program that helps them improve their sense of well-being and reach their life goals. With couples, Dr. Heney works on bringing partners from conflict to mutual respect, understanding, and appreciation.
I offer client's a safe space to slow down, connect, and process their experiences in a grounded therapeutic relationship. I work with client's who are curious to explore deeper meaning and the emotional undercurrents of their life experiences, drawing on them for valuable insights toward self-knowledge, guidance, healing, and purposefulness. My ideal client is someone seeking a great sense of relational rapport, as well as a long-term commitment to their own growth and healing.
I offer client's a safe space to slow down, connect, and process their experiences in a grounded therapeutic relationship. I work with client's who are curious to explore deeper meaning and the emotional undercurrents of their life experiences, drawing on them for valuable insights toward self-knowledge, guidance, healing, and purposefulness. My ideal client is someone seeking a great sense of relational rapport, as well as a long-term commitment to their own growth and healing.
We all love the challenges of working and thriving in Canada's capital. In this aim to please Ottawa lifestyle, we often do not take the time we need to take care of ourselves. For many people, the often hectic pace and stress of different aspects of our lives (career, boss[es], clients, children, spouse, parents) can add up and cause stress. This can lead to anxiety, depression and other painful challenges. I have helped Ottawans successfully understand and master the ways in which the many currents of their lives interact and impact their emotional health.
We all love the challenges of working and thriving in Canada's capital. In this aim to please Ottawa lifestyle, we often do not take the time we need to take care of ourselves. For many people, the often hectic pace and stress of different aspects of our lives (career, boss[es], clients, children, spouse, parents) can add up and cause stress. This can lead to anxiety, depression and other painful challenges. I have helped Ottawans successfully understand and master the ways in which the many currents of their lives interact and impact their emotional health.
Our human experience can be challenging and unpredictable, and at times we may find ourselves feeling lost or overwhelmed. During these moments, reaching out can make all the difference. Together, let’s explore your unique circumstances and help you regain confidence in yourself and your abilities. I uphold a compassionate and non-judgemental space, valuing authenticity, empathy, and genuine connection. It has been my great privilege to work with courageous individuals as they confront anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, coping skills and more.
Our human experience can be challenging and unpredictable, and at times we may find ourselves feeling lost or overwhelmed. During these moments, reaching out can make all the difference. Together, let’s explore your unique circumstances and help you regain confidence in yourself and your abilities. I uphold a compassionate and non-judgemental space, valuing authenticity, empathy, and genuine connection. It has been my great privilege to work with courageous individuals as they confront anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, coping skills and more.
Martha Dougherty
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA, BEd, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G (Online Only)
I am only accepting clients for Clinical Supervision and/or consultations. I am no longer accepting clients for individual psychotherapy.
I am only accepting clients for Clinical Supervision and/or consultations. I am no longer accepting clients for individual psychotherapy.
Welcome! I specialize in supporting children and youth, though I am open to working with adults as well. My expertise covers a range of issues, including self-esteem, confidence, emotional regulation, school difficulties, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, family conflict, peer relationships, parenting challenges, and communication hurdles.
Welcome! I specialize in supporting children and youth, though I am open to working with adults as well. My expertise covers a range of issues, including self-esteem, confidence, emotional regulation, school difficulties, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, family conflict, peer relationships, parenting challenges, and communication hurdles.
See more therapy options for Ottawa
Nearby Searches for Ottawa
See More CounsellorsHow does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Ottawa, ON
2,000+
Average cost per session
$160
Counsellors in Ottawa, ON who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
83% | Self Esteem |
80% | Stress |
79% | Relationship Issues |
70% | Coping Skills |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
61% | SunLife |
59% | Canada Life | Great-West Life |
57% | Manulife |
How Counsellors in Ottawa, ON see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
15% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Ottawa?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postal code, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postal code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Most Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are certified by one of the main professional associations, mainly the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and will have a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) designation with their name. Social Workers listed in the directory must be registered members of the college specific to their province. To be listed in the directory, Psychologists must be registered with the psychological college specific to their province or territory.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Psychologists, counsellors, psychotherapists and social workers can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in Canada.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, the cost of a therapy session in Canada could be between $100 and $200. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postal code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Professionals licensed by regulatory colleges and those certified by associations such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.