Therapists in Hillsdale, ON
Kendra Wagner
Registered Psychotherapist, HBSc, GradDip, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hillsdale, ON L0L
I believe that people start to heal the moment they feel heard and so my aim is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space that provides my clients validation and understanding. My work is relational, trauma-informed and attachment-based. I have a passion for supporting my child, teen and adult clients in having "aha moments" as they discover how their past experiences are causing the brain to instinctively protect in the present. We can then use this understanding ultimately gain symptom relief. I also provide Clinical Supervision (which meet CRPO standards) and Consultation for upcoming and developed counsellors.
I believe that people start to heal the moment they feel heard and so my aim is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space that provides my clients validation and understanding. My work is relational, trauma-informed and attachment-based. I have a passion for supporting my child, teen and adult clients in having "aha moments" as they discover how their past experiences are causing the brain to instinctively protect in the present. We can then use this understanding ultimately gain symptom relief. I also provide Clinical Supervision (which meet CRPO standards) and Consultation for upcoming and developed counsellors.
More Therapists Nearby
Sarah Adhd Adult Autism Burnout Spears Palma
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Do you struggle with low self-esteem, stress, ADHD or anxiety? Are you a child, teen, or in your 20's or 30's? Are you overwhelmed by school or life, or worried about fitting in? Struggling with relationships with friends, roommates or family? Is someone gaslighting you? Resentment and anger can build up fast! Learn to express your opinions and feelings to others and become more confident. I know how it can be difficult to find solutions and remain hopeful at times.
Do you struggle with low self-esteem, stress, ADHD or anxiety? Are you a child, teen, or in your 20's or 30's? Are you overwhelmed by school or life, or worried about fitting in? Struggling with relationships with friends, roommates or family? Is someone gaslighting you? Resentment and anger can build up fast! Learn to express your opinions and feelings to others and become more confident. I know how it can be difficult to find solutions and remain hopeful at times.
Jessica Laine
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP (Q), EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Reaching out for help takes courage. Instead of asking, "What's wrong with you?" I prefer to ask, "What happened and how can I empower you to heal?" I am dedicated to providing person-centred and trauma-informed therapies rooted in science. I firmly believe that you are the expert in your life and experiences, and it is my responsibility to support and guide you toward healing. I will collaborate with you to develop personalized and comprehensive treatments that respect and address your needs and circumstances. Together, we can attain your short- and long-term goals and help you feel empowered and deserving of healing.
Reaching out for help takes courage. Instead of asking, "What's wrong with you?" I prefer to ask, "What happened and how can I empower you to heal?" I am dedicated to providing person-centred and trauma-informed therapies rooted in science. I firmly believe that you are the expert in your life and experiences, and it is my responsibility to support and guide you toward healing. I will collaborate with you to develop personalized and comprehensive treatments that respect and address your needs and circumstances. Together, we can attain your short- and long-term goals and help you feel empowered and deserving of healing.
Welcome, you have taken a great step in being on this site. I am here to help and support you where ever you may be in your journey of healing, coping, or discovery. The relationship between client and therapist is an important one. Our rapport will contribute to successful therapy and to that end, I offer a safe and non-judgemental experience. I believe in the power of hope, coffee and the resiliency of people. I would be honoured to work with you and offer a free phone consultation if you would like to see if I am a good fit for you.
Welcome, you have taken a great step in being on this site. I am here to help and support you where ever you may be in your journey of healing, coping, or discovery. The relationship between client and therapist is an important one. Our rapport will contribute to successful therapy and to that end, I offer a safe and non-judgemental experience. I believe in the power of hope, coffee and the resiliency of people. I would be honoured to work with you and offer a free phone consultation if you would like to see if I am a good fit for you.
Alissa Witlox
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MDiv, HBSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Evening and Weekend Availability. There are many reasons which may have led you here. Maybe you've been feeling worried, sad, lonely, or scared, and just can't seem to get unstuck from feeling this way. Maybe you're in the middle of a difficult situation or can't stop thinking about something traumatic you've experienced in the past. Whatever it is, it can be overwhelming at times and feel like it has taken control. Therapy is a place where you can come be heard, validated, encouraged, and together we can work towards your goals for change.
Evening and Weekend Availability. There are many reasons which may have led you here. Maybe you've been feeling worried, sad, lonely, or scared, and just can't seem to get unstuck from feeling this way. Maybe you're in the middle of a difficult situation or can't stop thinking about something traumatic you've experienced in the past. Whatever it is, it can be overwhelming at times and feel like it has taken control. Therapy is a place where you can come be heard, validated, encouraged, and together we can work towards your goals for change.
Finding the right support for life challenges can be stressful and discouraging. I provide a non-judgemental and safe space in which you and I can work together towards your desired outcomes. With over 14 years of nursing experience and my social work background, I am in a unique position of being able to provide a truly holistic approach to therapy. I foster a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship to address concerns that are specific to each client. My approach focuses on developing life skills, building strengths and positive coping skills.
Finding the right support for life challenges can be stressful and discouraging. I provide a non-judgemental and safe space in which you and I can work together towards your desired outcomes. With over 14 years of nursing experience and my social work background, I am in a unique position of being able to provide a truly holistic approach to therapy. I foster a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship to address concerns that are specific to each client. My approach focuses on developing life skills, building strengths and positive coping skills.
Michele Wolf
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BASc
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
Life has its ups and downs and sometimes gets really challenging. So often we tell ourselves we can handle it, that things will get better, that it's not that bad, or that other people have it worse. Maybe we’ll fix it by doing more, giving more, pleasing others more. Everyone has their unique reasons to seek counselling. Often, it's for gaining support with a current challenge or life transition. Or, for support around long-standing unhelpful patterns and difficulties from the past. For adult women from their 20’s through midlife and into their elder years.
Life has its ups and downs and sometimes gets really challenging. So often we tell ourselves we can handle it, that things will get better, that it's not that bad, or that other people have it worse. Maybe we’ll fix it by doing more, giving more, pleasing others more. Everyone has their unique reasons to seek counselling. Often, it's for gaining support with a current challenge or life transition. Or, for support around long-standing unhelpful patterns and difficulties from the past. For adult women from their 20’s through midlife and into their elder years.
I provide psychotherapy in a compassionate and non-judgemental setting and approach my clients with support. I provide an empowering environment where you can explore your experiences, challenge limiting beliefs, and re-author your personal narrative. I have a background working in hospital, EFAP, and private-practice settings. I provide therapy for a diverse range of issues, including anxiety, depression, burnout, eating disorders, career/work stress, life transitions, academic and school-related stress, body image, self-esteem, developing confidence, stress management, parenting issues and more.
I provide psychotherapy in a compassionate and non-judgemental setting and approach my clients with support. I provide an empowering environment where you can explore your experiences, challenge limiting beliefs, and re-author your personal narrative. I have a background working in hospital, EFAP, and private-practice settings. I provide therapy for a diverse range of issues, including anxiety, depression, burnout, eating disorders, career/work stress, life transitions, academic and school-related stress, body image, self-esteem, developing confidence, stress management, parenting issues and more.
Wendy Roza
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Are you on a journey of self-discovery & personal growth? As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I'm here to walk alongside you through life's challenges with an approach that respects your unique experiences. In our sessions, I see you as a whole person, not just a list of symptoms. We'll create a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours without fear of judgment. My goal is to empower you to uncover underlying issues, gain insights into your patterns, and develop effective coping strategies.
Are you on a journey of self-discovery & personal growth? As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I'm here to walk alongside you through life's challenges with an approach that respects your unique experiences. In our sessions, I see you as a whole person, not just a list of symptoms. We'll create a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours without fear of judgment. My goal is to empower you to uncover underlying issues, gain insights into your patterns, and develop effective coping strategies.
All of our children are so very unique and constantly changing. Sometimes they need a helping hand to keep them moving along to thrive in their relationships and connections with others; or to develop strategies to support emotional regulation, social skills, life skills, anxiety reduction, concentration and focus, or processing of traumatic events. Throughout the process, parent/caregiver participation is a key component when it comes to working with children. My long-standing experience with neurodivergent children, youth, and their families will provide you with the reassurance you need to move forward.
All of our children are so very unique and constantly changing. Sometimes they need a helping hand to keep them moving along to thrive in their relationships and connections with others; or to develop strategies to support emotional regulation, social skills, life skills, anxiety reduction, concentration and focus, or processing of traumatic events. Throughout the process, parent/caregiver participation is a key component when it comes to working with children. My long-standing experience with neurodivergent children, youth, and their families will provide you with the reassurance you need to move forward.
Authentically You Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCTS-I, CGIP, CCTSA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
Our therapists take a salutogenic approach to therapy, which means that our focus is on wellness as opposed to disease or disorder. Along with helping you navigate your current struggles and reprocessing past experiences, we also focus on building resilience, empowerment, and stabilization so our clients don’t just “get by” – they thrive.
Our therapists take a salutogenic approach to therapy, which means that our focus is on wellness as opposed to disease or disorder. Along with helping you navigate your current struggles and reprocessing past experiences, we also focus on building resilience, empowerment, and stabilization so our clients don’t just “get by” – they thrive.
Stephanie Severino
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
I am a compassionate, honest, empathetic therapist, and I prioritize ethical practice and integrity above all else. I like to incorporate my sense of humour in my work with clients to help put them at ease and develop a positive therapeutic relationship. I have experience working with children, youth, adults, couples and families presenting with a wide range of concerns and mental health needs. I am a registered Social Worker and a member in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
I am a compassionate, honest, empathetic therapist, and I prioritize ethical practice and integrity above all else. I like to incorporate my sense of humour in my work with clients to help put them at ease and develop a positive therapeutic relationship. I have experience working with children, youth, adults, couples and families presenting with a wide range of concerns and mental health needs. I am a registered Social Worker and a member in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
Tania E. Kingston, RP
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RPC
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Not accepting new clients
Often times we get stuck in various aspects of our life due to loss, emotional distress such as anxiety, panic or depression; trauma (childhood, sexual, physical and emotional abuse); relationship issues, such as separation and divorce, and coping issues such as stress and addictions, and we just need someone to help us navigate it all.
Often times we get stuck in various aspects of our life due to loss, emotional distress such as anxiety, panic or depression; trauma (childhood, sexual, physical and emotional abuse); relationship issues, such as separation and divorce, and coping issues such as stress and addictions, and we just need someone to help us navigate it all.
Heather G. Evans
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Not accepting new clients
Psychotherapy is a journey and it is not always an easy one. It requires courage, strength and the ability to be self-aware. Psychotherapy works well for those who have the capacity to explore and ask questions. It is best suited for people who are curious about who they are and why they behave the way they do. Those who will benefit most are those who are capable of reasoning with themselves and, most importantly, of exploring different solutions.
Psychotherapy is a journey and it is not always an easy one. It requires courage, strength and the ability to be self-aware. Psychotherapy works well for those who have the capacity to explore and ask questions. It is best suited for people who are curious about who they are and why they behave the way they do. Those who will benefit most are those who are capable of reasoning with themselves and, most importantly, of exploring different solutions.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist through the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario with a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology. I provide evidence-based therapy and skills training in dialectical behaviour therapy. I specialize in issues related to emotion regulation and impulsivity which include borderline personality disorder and other personality disorders, PTSD, suicide as well as mood, anxiety and eating disorders. I have international training with DBT experts from locations including Italy and New York. I have formal training in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD and CBT for anxiety.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist through the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario with a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology. I provide evidence-based therapy and skills training in dialectical behaviour therapy. I specialize in issues related to emotion regulation and impulsivity which include borderline personality disorder and other personality disorders, PTSD, suicide as well as mood, anxiety and eating disorders. I have international training with DBT experts from locations including Italy and New York. I have formal training in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD and CBT for anxiety.
Your therapy journey is about empowering you to navigate challenges, such as: Making a life-changing decision. Coping with intolerable stress, anxiety, anger, sadness, or grief. Managing a difficult relationship. Managing chronic pain or other overwhelming condition. Figuring out who you are as you find yourself again. Resolving restlessness. Disempowering shame and feelings of not being good enough. Coping with isolation and/or rejection. Dealing with a stressful diagnosis. Your therapy is a place to feel heard, understood, and respected. Hope and compassion help you heal from painful experiences of the past, and live more freely.
Your therapy journey is about empowering you to navigate challenges, such as: Making a life-changing decision. Coping with intolerable stress, anxiety, anger, sadness, or grief. Managing a difficult relationship. Managing chronic pain or other overwhelming condition. Figuring out who you are as you find yourself again. Resolving restlessness. Disempowering shame and feelings of not being good enough. Coping with isolation and/or rejection. Dealing with a stressful diagnosis. Your therapy is a place to feel heard, understood, and respected. Hope and compassion help you heal from painful experiences of the past, and live more freely.
Joanne McCafferty
Registered Psychotherapist, BA Psyc, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Welcome! I am delighted you are here! Seeking therapy and change is an act of courage! I provide in-person therapy, as well as virtual and phone sessions . I specialize in working with adolescents, adults and families. I am a Registered Psychotherapist with over 30 years’ experience working with people to improve their mental health. I utilize evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and mindfulness. I integrate a number of other therapeutic approaches into my practice and seek to fit the approach to the individual’s needs, preferences, and strengths.
Welcome! I am delighted you are here! Seeking therapy and change is an act of courage! I provide in-person therapy, as well as virtual and phone sessions . I specialize in working with adolescents, adults and families. I am a Registered Psychotherapist with over 30 years’ experience working with people to improve their mental health. I utilize evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and mindfulness. I integrate a number of other therapeutic approaches into my practice and seek to fit the approach to the individual’s needs, preferences, and strengths.
Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
Reflection Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSW, RSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Welcome to Reflection Centre, an integrative therapy network located on the beautiful lakeshore of Barrie, Ontario. We are a network of trained clinicians here to help, whether you are seeking individual or family therapy. We offer a comprehensive range of mental health services, providing a seamless experience to fulfill all your potential needs in one place. Our goal is to support individuals, couples, families, and children in overcoming the challenges that prevent them from living life to the fullest. We understand that each person is unique, and we customize our treatment plans to meet the specific needs of our clients.
Welcome to Reflection Centre, an integrative therapy network located on the beautiful lakeshore of Barrie, Ontario. We are a network of trained clinicians here to help, whether you are seeking individual or family therapy. We offer a comprehensive range of mental health services, providing a seamless experience to fulfill all your potential needs in one place. Our goal is to support individuals, couples, families, and children in overcoming the challenges that prevent them from living life to the fullest. We understand that each person is unique, and we customize our treatment plans to meet the specific needs of our clients.
Are you struggling to connect emotionally with your partner? You may often feel like you’re worlds apart in understanding each other. These feelings can be magnified for those in an inter-racial couple, where you’re constantly negotiating your own identity, in addition to your identity as a couple, amongst the other challenges and responsibilities in your life. As someone who identifies as BIPOC, I have lived experience in navigating these worlds. I can help you begin to put the pieces of the puzzle that each of you brings to the relationship together- to create a beautiful picture of your future as a couple.
Are you struggling to connect emotionally with your partner? You may often feel like you’re worlds apart in understanding each other. These feelings can be magnified for those in an inter-racial couple, where you’re constantly negotiating your own identity, in addition to your identity as a couple, amongst the other challenges and responsibilities in your life. As someone who identifies as BIPOC, I have lived experience in navigating these worlds. I can help you begin to put the pieces of the puzzle that each of you brings to the relationship together- to create a beautiful picture of your future as a couple.
Amanda Skyvington
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Ba, ADMH, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
The harder times that life brings can leave us feeling a variety of emotions; anxiety, sadness, anger. Attempting to cope with these events and emotions alone can be exhausting. I began my journey to become a Psychotherapist as I found myself wanting to support others as they work through these times and strive for greater self-awareness, understanding, or self-improvement. I believe that everyone is deserving of support and compassion.
The harder times that life brings can leave us feeling a variety of emotions; anxiety, sadness, anger. Attempting to cope with these events and emotions alone can be exhausting. I began my journey to become a Psychotherapist as I found myself wanting to support others as they work through these times and strive for greater self-awareness, understanding, or self-improvement. I believe that everyone is deserving of support and compassion.
We often believe we must suffer on our own, having learned to be fiercely independent. Our suffering can show up as lack of motivation, burn-out, isolation, unhelpful habits, abuse, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, feeling stuck, or feeling like we just need to survive the day to day. We may even believe that we are meant to suffer. Perhaps we might believe that we cannot reach our potential or reach out for help, or we have forgotten who we are. When we receive the support that we need, we can all reach our full potential, regardless of what happened to us.
We often believe we must suffer on our own, having learned to be fiercely independent. Our suffering can show up as lack of motivation, burn-out, isolation, unhelpful habits, abuse, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, feeling stuck, or feeling like we just need to survive the day to day. We may even believe that we are meant to suffer. Perhaps we might believe that we cannot reach our potential or reach out for help, or we have forgotten who we are. When we receive the support that we need, we can all reach our full potential, regardless of what happened to us.
Kristen Jones
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
At times, we go through challenges in our life that are difficult to navigate on our own. I work collaboratively with clients to ensure that they are heard, understood, and supported as we work together to move through those challenges. I utilize a client-centred and compassionate approach to address a wide range of concerns including trauma, grief, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, PTSD, stress, substance use disorders, and low self-esteem.
At times, we go through challenges in our life that are difficult to navigate on our own. I work collaboratively with clients to ensure that they are heard, understood, and supported as we work together to move through those challenges. I utilize a client-centred and compassionate approach to address a wide range of concerns including trauma, grief, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, PTSD, stress, substance use disorders, and low self-esteem.
Alexandra Albert
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MScS, BScS, RYT200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
Past traumas may linger in the face of life's seasons, hindering your ability to be your true self. You may repeat unhealthy relationship patterns or engage in ways that don't serve you. You may feel disconnected from yourself and your body, and lose your sense of Self in relationships. You may grapple with negative self-talk, stress, anxiety, and burnout, struggling to manage your energy and emotions. Overthinking, overachieving, self-criticism, and self-doubt often prevail as you question your purpose and whether you’re on the right path. I know how tiring, frustrating, and defeating this can feel.
Past traumas may linger in the face of life's seasons, hindering your ability to be your true self. You may repeat unhealthy relationship patterns or engage in ways that don't serve you. You may feel disconnected from yourself and your body, and lose your sense of Self in relationships. You may grapple with negative self-talk, stress, anxiety, and burnout, struggling to manage your energy and emotions. Overthinking, overachieving, self-criticism, and self-doubt often prevail as you question your purpose and whether you’re on the right path. I know how tiring, frustrating, and defeating this can feel.
Charlotte Hammill
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Mental health is nested within a network of relationships and our past experience. In therapy, we work together to untangle these networks to build awareness and form new and useful strategies that serve you and your loved ones. I work with youth and adults managing low mood/self-esteem, depression/suicide, anxiety, ADHD, eating and body image concerns, relationship difficulties (family, romantic etc.), grief, and day to day stressors.
Mental health is nested within a network of relationships and our past experience. In therapy, we work together to untangle these networks to build awareness and form new and useful strategies that serve you and your loved ones. I work with youth and adults managing low mood/self-esteem, depression/suicide, anxiety, ADHD, eating and body image concerns, relationship difficulties (family, romantic etc.), grief, and day to day stressors.
Nearby Searches for Hillsdale
See More CounsellorsHow does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Hillsdale, ON
< 10
Counsellors in Hillsdale, ON who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Counsellors in Hillsdale, ON see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Hillsdale?
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.