Therapists in Abbotsford, BC
![Photo of Joshua Dahl, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ac2254a-306f-429f-b383-9ee2cf44d2dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a social worker and counsellor for many years I have walked with people as they have journeyed through grief and loss, processed trauma, and learned to think differently about anxiety and depression. If you are interested in making a change in your life or working through challenging past events, please reach out.
As a social worker and counsellor for many years I have walked with people as they have journeyed through grief and loss, processed trauma, and learned to think differently about anxiety and depression. If you are interested in making a change in your life or working through challenging past events, please reach out.
![Photo of Maureen L. French - Life Balance Counselling, MC, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d74282-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maureen French is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She has had a fascination of how individuals and relationships work from a young age. Maureen has over 15 years counselling experience in variety of government, community, health care / hospital and private counselling settings as well as in patient and out-patient psychiatric settings. Maureen offers counselling, support and consultation with adolescents, family and adult relationship issues. Maureen is a skilled play therapist who has worked extensively with child with complex trauma including developing and facilitating parenting programs and trauma informed programs.
Maureen French is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She has had a fascination of how individuals and relationships work from a young age. Maureen has over 15 years counselling experience in variety of government, community, health care / hospital and private counselling settings as well as in patient and out-patient psychiatric settings. Maureen offers counselling, support and consultation with adolescents, family and adult relationship issues. Maureen is a skilled play therapist who has worked extensively with child with complex trauma including developing and facilitating parenting programs and trauma informed programs.
![Photo of Heather Toews, MA, RCC, RSW, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66873a29-98b7-4611-829e-adf014584c3d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Toews
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2S
Waitlist for new clients
As a counsellor/social worker I look forward to supporting individuals, couples or families on their life journey: past, present & future. I consider myself an attachment based, trauma-informed and adoption competent counsellor. I have a passion for helping parents to be the parent their child needs. Providing a safe and non-judgmental space to make sense of your experiences is my primary goal. My strength-based, client-centred approach, aims to support you to: strengthen connections, enhance skills, build resilience, heal from your own experiences, and to enjoy healthy relationships.
As a counsellor/social worker I look forward to supporting individuals, couples or families on their life journey: past, present & future. I consider myself an attachment based, trauma-informed and adoption competent counsellor. I have a passion for helping parents to be the parent their child needs. Providing a safe and non-judgmental space to make sense of your experiences is my primary goal. My strength-based, client-centred approach, aims to support you to: strengthen connections, enhance skills, build resilience, heal from your own experiences, and to enjoy healthy relationships.
![Photo of Leisa Shea, MA, RCC, EMDR, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/526bf11e-750d-4992-b8e7-54ffbe9d60b2/1/320x400.png)
Accepting new clients. I am available evenings and weekends and have immediate openings. If you have experienced a stress response due to your occupation, living, or a specific experience, I invite you to visit: shearcc.janeapp.com for more information about session availability. I offer a means of relief whether it is to vent (tell someone), understand body/emotional responses (regulate yourself), or help to process specific circumstances (work through grief/trauma). I am EMDR trained (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help move raw feelings into a mellow memory.
Accepting new clients. I am available evenings and weekends and have immediate openings. If you have experienced a stress response due to your occupation, living, or a specific experience, I invite you to visit: shearcc.janeapp.com for more information about session availability. I offer a means of relief whether it is to vent (tell someone), understand body/emotional responses (regulate yourself), or help to process specific circumstances (work through grief/trauma). I am EMDR trained (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help move raw feelings into a mellow memory.
![Photo of Jennifer C Leon, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7da655bd-041f-46ba-9e9d-37d7021867ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
I've been in practice for clinical counselling since 2010. Over the course of time, I have adopted a practical and evidence-based approach to clinical counselling. Some of my areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, inter-personal relationships, family of origin challenges, career/work and trauma. I have years of additional training under my belt but I've found that it comes down to the relationship between the counsellor and the client. In this case, it's what you know AND who you want in your corner. I enjoy working with a variety of clients, and most especially those who are ready to do the work to get the life the want!
I've been in practice for clinical counselling since 2010. Over the course of time, I have adopted a practical and evidence-based approach to clinical counselling. Some of my areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, inter-personal relationships, family of origin challenges, career/work and trauma. I have years of additional training under my belt but I've found that it comes down to the relationship between the counsellor and the client. In this case, it's what you know AND who you want in your corner. I enjoy working with a variety of clients, and most especially those who are ready to do the work to get the life the want!
![Photo of Theresa Jouan, MSc, BCBA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8f51d8f-55a8-4fed-bded-28b81653f623/2/320x400.png)
Theresa Jouan
Counsellor, MSc, BCBA, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2S
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes we realize a degree of feeling 'stuck' that we want help with and other times it's a feeling of overwhelm or we're at our breaking point; the timing is different for everyone. My approach pulls from many different modalities including: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Observed & Experiential Integration. The approach we use in session will be talked through and led by your situation, your style, preferences and your strengths in combination with my expertise. Reach out for your free, initial 15 minute call today so that we can determine if a good fit is there to build on.
Sometimes we realize a degree of feeling 'stuck' that we want help with and other times it's a feeling of overwhelm or we're at our breaking point; the timing is different for everyone. My approach pulls from many different modalities including: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Observed & Experiential Integration. The approach we use in session will be talked through and led by your situation, your style, preferences and your strengths in combination with my expertise. Reach out for your free, initial 15 minute call today so that we can determine if a good fit is there to build on.
![Photo of Rebecca Schroeder, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49e4e8fb-12d7-43e6-bd26-31dfedd3d680/3/320x400.jpeg)
Finding a therapist you trust and feel safe with is foundational to successful counselling. As a therapist, I use compassion, experience, authenticity and insight create a space where you are safe to process your thoughts and feelings, strengths and struggles and to receive support for expressing, connecting with and honouring your deepest values and life goals. Being responsive to clients needs also requires therapeutic education, direction and curiosity. I value asking questions which support you in experiencing your own “ah ha” moments. I will work to help you put language to some of the challenges you have experienced.
Finding a therapist you trust and feel safe with is foundational to successful counselling. As a therapist, I use compassion, experience, authenticity and insight create a space where you are safe to process your thoughts and feelings, strengths and struggles and to receive support for expressing, connecting with and honouring your deepest values and life goals. Being responsive to clients needs also requires therapeutic education, direction and curiosity. I value asking questions which support you in experiencing your own “ah ha” moments. I will work to help you put language to some of the challenges you have experienced.
![Photo of Elysia Bronson, MACP, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26745d30-eef5-4fff-bf0b-d88e9d834356/2/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with chronic pain, fatigue, or an illness? As a therapist who's also navigated chronic pain, I know what it’s like to feel like you’re always pushing past your limits to get through the day. To feel like your body aches, your brain feels foggy, and the life you want seems out of reach. If you’ve been trying to deal with issues like these on your own for a while, it might be time to reach out for support. I specialize in pain therapy, teaching coping skills, and providing support to anyone, anywhere with online therapy. Book anytime you need and get supported by someone who gets it and specializes in helping you to thrive.
Struggling with chronic pain, fatigue, or an illness? As a therapist who's also navigated chronic pain, I know what it’s like to feel like you’re always pushing past your limits to get through the day. To feel like your body aches, your brain feels foggy, and the life you want seems out of reach. If you’ve been trying to deal with issues like these on your own for a while, it might be time to reach out for support. I specialize in pain therapy, teaching coping skills, and providing support to anyone, anywhere with online therapy. Book anytime you need and get supported by someone who gets it and specializes in helping you to thrive.
![Photo of Rupinder Sidhu, RCC, CCC, MCP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d86dfca-3af8-4b7b-9a05-c899c741b75f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rupinder Sidhu
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, MCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2T (Online Only)
Hi there, I’m Rupinder and I am an experienced Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC specializing in healing from grief, relieving anxiety and depression, and coping with stress. I have held various supervisory roles, including work at an Employee and Family Assistance program and as a mental health and addictions supervisor, and have been in the counselling field for many years. I speak fluent Punjabi for those wanting support in their native language and my sessions are available online for busy professionals or those wanting therapy in the comfort of their own home.
Hi there, I’m Rupinder and I am an experienced Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC specializing in healing from grief, relieving anxiety and depression, and coping with stress. I have held various supervisory roles, including work at an Employee and Family Assistance program and as a mental health and addictions supervisor, and have been in the counselling field for many years. I speak fluent Punjabi for those wanting support in their native language and my sessions are available online for busy professionals or those wanting therapy in the comfort of their own home.
![Photo of Chris Charles Hague, BA, BEd, MEd, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7562ab2a-9d8f-4c47-b462-cc1048a95851/2/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with all persons; however, I have found that working with men between the ages of 18-65 to be some of my most fulfilling work. From my experience, many men struggle in silence with their mental health and often find it difficult to discuss what is bothering them. I aim to help these men open up the doors to their experiences and help navigate with them the inner workings of what is distressing. When we have built a safe connection vulnerable sharing can begin. It beings me tremendous joy to watch the transformation of my client when they begin to accept themselves for who they are!
I enjoy working with all persons; however, I have found that working with men between the ages of 18-65 to be some of my most fulfilling work. From my experience, many men struggle in silence with their mental health and often find it difficult to discuss what is bothering them. I aim to help these men open up the doors to their experiences and help navigate with them the inner workings of what is distressing. When we have built a safe connection vulnerable sharing can begin. It beings me tremendous joy to watch the transformation of my client when they begin to accept themselves for who they are!
![Photo of Kelsey Dyck, MCP, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffc7f4ba-76ee-459e-961a-f496aa656b6b/2/320x400.png)
Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Stuck in negative thought patterns? Experiencing low self-worth? Suffering from PTSD, anxiety or have a history of trauma? I believe that with strong therapeutic connection, we can explore solutions to your challenges and address historical issues and persistent patterns that you desire to change. I work collaboratively with you to build an individualized treatment plan based on your current needs, motivations and strengths. I am devoted to creating a safe and nurturing space for you to discover your inner strength, gain clarity, and cultivate a positive mindset for lasting personal growth.
Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Stuck in negative thought patterns? Experiencing low self-worth? Suffering from PTSD, anxiety or have a history of trauma? I believe that with strong therapeutic connection, we can explore solutions to your challenges and address historical issues and persistent patterns that you desire to change. I work collaboratively with you to build an individualized treatment plan based on your current needs, motivations and strengths. I am devoted to creating a safe and nurturing space for you to discover your inner strength, gain clarity, and cultivate a positive mindset for lasting personal growth.
15 Second Videos
Joshua Dahl
Crossroads Collective
Julie Warkentin
Colleen Vantol
Iosif Oros
Rachel Wiens Counselling
Whitney Regan
Justine Russo
Tammy (Tam) Schultz
Tia Prince | Therapy For Anxiety Chronic Illness
Inspiring Change Counselling
Cameron Robertson
Haide A Wall Giesbrecht
Stacy E Finch
Curtis Dueck
Katie Johnson
Cara Tull
Lorne E Pierce
OK Clinical Therapy Group - Coastal Counselling
Chris Barber
Valerie Thomas
Brandi Matheson
Nat Keeling
Veronica Chase
Laura Jean Gardham
Kadie Lawson
Aaron Roorda
Strength Counselling Services
Ariel Dumais
Steve Woolf
Olive Branch Counselling
Ginna Abramovitch
Lori Veres
Marianne Cottingham
Krista Mooney
Melissa Phippen
Sandra Wallace Anxiety Coach
Angela F Turner
Raelene Hurry
Shawna Bot
Alison Friesen
Ana-Maria Comia
Kristy Zulyniak
Nicole Karr
Michael Zibauer
Heather Deans
Arno Lowi Communication Connection Narcissism Trauma Couples Supervision
Michael Elterman
Balraj Singh
Leeya Schachter
![Photo of Shannon Lawrence - Crossroads Collective, RPC-C, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6270d101-0620-465d-a39b-8231aa6c4f01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stuck at a crossroads, unsure of the right direction for yourself or your family? I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges, whether you’re seeking personal growth for yourself, guidance for your child, or both. For adults, particularly those dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, or anger, I offer a compassionate approach to help you develop coping strategies, regain control, and move toward a more peaceful state of mind. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, you can build resilience and find calm amidst the chaos. Whether you're dealing with a recent separation, divorce,
Are you feeling stuck at a crossroads, unsure of the right direction for yourself or your family? I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges, whether you’re seeking personal growth for yourself, guidance for your child, or both. For adults, particularly those dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, or anger, I offer a compassionate approach to help you develop coping strategies, regain control, and move toward a more peaceful state of mind. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, you can build resilience and find calm amidst the chaos. Whether you're dealing with a recent separation, divorce,
![Photo of Iryna Kobets, MA , MC, RCC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/768aceb8-e715-4c88-89ec-7d68d66334a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Життя — це подорож, і на цій дорозі ми стикаємося з різними викликами, невизначеністю та моментами глибоких змін. Саме в такі часи наявність підтримуючої професійної допомоги - може змінити все. Я тут, щоб бути вашим провідником, партнером та психологом. Я щаслива поділитися з вами своїм двадцятирічним досвідом психотерапії , коучингу та менторства. Безліч разів я була свідком неймовірної внутрішньої сили , стійкості та глибинного самопізнання. Уявіть собі простір, де ви можете досліджувати свої найпотаємніші думки, долати перешкоди та уявляти майбутнє, наповнене зростанням і самореалізацією.
Життя — це подорож, і на цій дорозі ми стикаємося з різними викликами, невизначеністю та моментами глибоких змін. Саме в такі часи наявність підтримуючої професійної допомоги - може змінити все. Я тут, щоб бути вашим провідником, партнером та психологом. Я щаслива поділитися з вами своїм двадцятирічним досвідом психотерапії , коучингу та менторства. Безліч разів я була свідком неймовірної внутрішньої сили , стійкості та глибинного самопізнання. Уявіть собі простір, де ви можете досліджувати свої найпотаємніші думки, долати перешкоди та уявляти майбутнє, наповнене зростанням і самореалізацією.
![Photo of Shanda Leanne Collins, MC , RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f55eec2-6ee9-4dcb-97b5-673d4e391228/3/320x400.jpeg)
My passion is to come alongside you during challenging times and life transitions. Although difficult, transitions are growth opportunities helping to uncover our resilience and a way back to our authentic selves. Transitions can also bring worry, self doubt, insecurity, loss, and loneliness. Together, with your inner wisdom and my guidance we can navigate relationships, increase skills, manage emotions, solve problems, build confidence and increase your sense of self. By drawing attention to your unique strengths and gifts we will work towards your goals and empower you to make change and solve the problems you are facing.
My passion is to come alongside you during challenging times and life transitions. Although difficult, transitions are growth opportunities helping to uncover our resilience and a way back to our authentic selves. Transitions can also bring worry, self doubt, insecurity, loss, and loneliness. Together, with your inner wisdom and my guidance we can navigate relationships, increase skills, manage emotions, solve problems, build confidence and increase your sense of self. By drawing attention to your unique strengths and gifts we will work towards your goals and empower you to make change and solve the problems you are facing.
![Photo of Shawna Langridge, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/037237ef-67c6-4025-9d41-b2364334ac50/2/320x400.jpeg)
Living with mental health struggles can be brutal! It can slowly drain you of your zest for life, your sense of pride and ability to overcome. It can keep you tethered to a past you’d like to leave behind. It can make you feel isolated and alone, misunderstood even by those who love you the most. Worst of all, it can it can convince you that life can’t ever be better for you. I want to tell you that it can, and given some time, effort and the right help, it will.
Living with mental health struggles can be brutal! It can slowly drain you of your zest for life, your sense of pride and ability to overcome. It can keep you tethered to a past you’d like to leave behind. It can make you feel isolated and alone, misunderstood even by those who love you the most. Worst of all, it can it can convince you that life can’t ever be better for you. I want to tell you that it can, and given some time, effort and the right help, it will.
![Photo of Julie Warkentin, MACP, CPC, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/628df042-8196-4c61-9095-8df3360b6dae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Warkentin
Counsellor, MACP, CPC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V2S
Waitlist for new clients
There are many differing messages of who to be and it can be easy to lose connection to the truth of who we are. We are continually shaped and impacted by relationships, life experiences, trauma, and our worldviews. As well, our own mental health can rob us from living authentically. As a therapist, I value the unique identity and experience of each person I work with, welcoming individuals of diverse backgrounds, identities, cultures, and spiritual orientations. It is my desire that you experience a warm, supportive therapeutic relationship with me where you're encouraged to be the truest expression of yourself.
There are many differing messages of who to be and it can be easy to lose connection to the truth of who we are. We are continually shaped and impacted by relationships, life experiences, trauma, and our worldviews. As well, our own mental health can rob us from living authentically. As a therapist, I value the unique identity and experience of each person I work with, welcoming individuals of diverse backgrounds, identities, cultures, and spiritual orientations. It is my desire that you experience a warm, supportive therapeutic relationship with me where you're encouraged to be the truest expression of yourself.
![Photo of Yanez Koenig - Yanez Koenig Counselling, MA, RCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7c5cfce-c7ed-4d12-88eb-7afb1d3a1185/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yanez Koenig Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Abbotsford, BC V3G
I have a strong passion for helping people and I believe that people have the potential for growth and change. I am committed to helping you discover and develop your inner strengths in order to help overcome any challenges that you may be facing. I understand that one of the most important parts of therapy is trust and therefore I work hard to build a strong alliance with my clients.
I have a strong passion for helping people and I believe that people have the potential for growth and change. I am committed to helping you discover and develop your inner strengths in order to help overcome any challenges that you may be facing. I understand that one of the most important parts of therapy is trust and therefore I work hard to build a strong alliance with my clients.
![Photo of Dan Bue, BA, MA, RCC, Rev, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f99960e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
A registered counsellor since 1994, I have worked with a wide array of clients. I have done much work with marriages and relationships and have developed a system that generally makes a significant difference within 6 sessions. For six years, I worked as an elementary school counsellor, working with over 450 children for a wide variety of needs. For 20 years, I worked extensively with Level 3 foster children, mostly teens. I also served as a prison chaplain so am familiar with criminal justice issues and addictions. Because of the diversity of my experience, I can generally relate to most clients.
A registered counsellor since 1994, I have worked with a wide array of clients. I have done much work with marriages and relationships and have developed a system that generally makes a significant difference within 6 sessions. For six years, I worked as an elementary school counsellor, working with over 450 children for a wide variety of needs. For 20 years, I worked extensively with Level 3 foster children, mostly teens. I also served as a prison chaplain so am familiar with criminal justice issues and addictions. Because of the diversity of my experience, I can generally relate to most clients.
![Photo of Tamara Dueckman, BA CYC, MSW, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e35474b-b923-4c49-ae7e-a3847d302e02/1/320x400.jpeg)
I hold deep respect and admiration for individuals who choose to enter therapy. It takes vulnerability, courage, and strength to consciously uncover the ways in which we are being held back from living our lives according to our deeply held values. I am committed to entering the therapeutic space with humility and curiosity. I believe that individuals have strengths and resiliencies within them from which to draw upon in difficult circumstances. As a therapist, I aim to walk alongside you as you discover or re-discover your strengths, joys, goals, and deeply-held beliefs and values.
I hold deep respect and admiration for individuals who choose to enter therapy. It takes vulnerability, courage, and strength to consciously uncover the ways in which we are being held back from living our lives according to our deeply held values. I am committed to entering the therapeutic space with humility and curiosity. I believe that individuals have strengths and resiliencies within them from which to draw upon in difficult circumstances. As a therapist, I aim to walk alongside you as you discover or re-discover your strengths, joys, goals, and deeply-held beliefs and values.
![Photo of Sophia Karkouch, MC, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af7d4008-6066-4c2f-9726-0e0c483e2066/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with a range of concerns varying from anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, abuse, life transitions, culture, identity exploration, self-esteem and more.
I work with a range of concerns varying from anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, abuse, life transitions, culture, identity exploration, self-esteem and more.
See more therapy options for Abbotsford
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Abbotsford, BC
200+
Average cost per session
$140
Counsellors in Abbotsford, BC who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
80% | Self Esteem |
79% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Stress |
72% | Grief |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
47% | CVAP | Crime Victim |
43% | Insurance Corporation of British Columbia |
42% | Green Shield Canada |
How Counsellors in Abbotsford, BC see their clients
82% | In Person and Online | |
18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Abbotsford?
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.