Therapists in V8A
![Photo of John-Michael Parra, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44043728-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
John-Michael Parra
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell River, BC V8A
Waitlist for new clients
Although it might not always feel that way, the good news is that you don't have to go it alone. If you are feeling unfocused, on an emotional roller coaster, unmotivated, and disconnected for yourself and others, I can help. Using engaging, effective, and holistic techniques, we will work together to help you find more resilience, emotional stability, focus, and meaning in your life. My trauma-informed counselling and coaching helps you get off the roller coaster, find out who you really are, what you actually want from life, and where you want to go next.
Although it might not always feel that way, the good news is that you don't have to go it alone. If you are feeling unfocused, on an emotional roller coaster, unmotivated, and disconnected for yourself and others, I can help. Using engaging, effective, and holistic techniques, we will work together to help you find more resilience, emotional stability, focus, and meaning in your life. My trauma-informed counselling and coaching helps you get off the roller coaster, find out who you really are, what you actually want from life, and where you want to go next.
![Photo of Erica Dolsen, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/890bccf7-ff5a-4508-bd96-c4ccc0cb2371/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sexuality, intimacy, identity. Addiction and recovery. Relationships and connection. Grief and loss. So many of us wonder how to live in our skin comfortably. Who are you, and how do you want to live? The next question is how to bring that authenticity into your life, your relationships, your communication. Sometimes our bodies don't connect with our hearts and minds. Erotic and sexual diversity is a part of the human experience. If you're struggling with shame, belief patterns that no longer serve, or wondering if you're alone - there is hope.
Sexuality, intimacy, identity. Addiction and recovery. Relationships and connection. Grief and loss. So many of us wonder how to live in our skin comfortably. Who are you, and how do you want to live? The next question is how to bring that authenticity into your life, your relationships, your communication. Sometimes our bodies don't connect with our hearts and minds. Erotic and sexual diversity is a part of the human experience. If you're struggling with shame, belief patterns that no longer serve, or wondering if you're alone - there is hope.
![Photo of Karen McGratten, MDiv, RP, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80a895df-e43c-4ac5-a00a-f30966c62944/3/320x400.jpeg)
Karen McGratten
Counsellor, MDiv, RP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell River, BC V8A (Online Only)
I often tell my clients that what they hear from me will be counter cultural. It is counter cultural in the sense that I talk about self-acceptance and worth regardless of size. I believe hope exists even when you can't see it, that mental health issues are not a sign of weakness and that I practice in a way that believes in change.
I often tell my clients that what they hear from me will be counter cultural. It is counter cultural in the sense that I talk about self-acceptance and worth regardless of size. I believe hope exists even when you can't see it, that mental health issues are not a sign of weakness and that I practice in a way that believes in change.
![Photo of Geoff Thompson - Sunshine Coast Health Centre, PhD, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ac22393-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Geoff has demonstrated an exemplary ability to connect with clients while working with the Sunshine Coast Health Centre. An extensive background in both residential and outpatient addiction treatment has helped Geoff keep things in perspective when clients feel overwhelmed. Geoff earned his Ph.D. in Psychology from Saybrook University and is a certified member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. He spent several years as a Clinical Addictions Counsellor at Maple Ridge Treatment Centre and also managed two provincial government treatment programs. Geoff has also been executive director for the International Ne
Geoff has demonstrated an exemplary ability to connect with clients while working with the Sunshine Coast Health Centre. An extensive background in both residential and outpatient addiction treatment has helped Geoff keep things in perspective when clients feel overwhelmed. Geoff earned his Ph.D. in Psychology from Saybrook University and is a certified member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. He spent several years as a Clinical Addictions Counsellor at Maple Ridge Treatment Centre and also managed two provincial government treatment programs. Geoff has also been executive director for the International Ne
![Photo of Sara Klinkhamer, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ac2b8f6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sara has a background of working on the downtown eastside in Vancouver for more than 10 years, which has given her much experience working with addiction and mental health issues, particularly trauma issues. Sara has also worked in both residential and outpatient settings as a concurrent disorder counsellor. Her strong belief in the worth of each individual, optimism in the face of adversity, as well as respect for autonomy and dignity, has served her well in this work.
Sara has a background of working on the downtown eastside in Vancouver for more than 10 years, which has given her much experience working with addiction and mental health issues, particularly trauma issues. Sara has also worked in both residential and outpatient settings as a concurrent disorder counsellor. Her strong belief in the worth of each individual, optimism in the face of adversity, as well as respect for autonomy and dignity, has served her well in this work.
![Photo of Davis Briscoe, RTC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45700aa6-c233-4e4f-a46e-92e5c958249f/1/320x400.jpeg)
"TRUE POWER DIMINISHES NEITHER SELF OR OTHER" (Mariah Moser). To connect to that power requires the guidance, courage and commitment to understand whats keeping you trapped in self destructive patterns. If you're feeling overwhelmed, numb, afraid or angry, I can help. If you're on the edge of making changes in your life but are feeling stuck, I can help you cross that threshold. In sessions, my intention is to build trust and a sense of safety so that we can explore the challenges that you are facing.
"TRUE POWER DIMINISHES NEITHER SELF OR OTHER" (Mariah Moser). To connect to that power requires the guidance, courage and commitment to understand whats keeping you trapped in self destructive patterns. If you're feeling overwhelmed, numb, afraid or angry, I can help. If you're on the edge of making changes in your life but are feeling stuck, I can help you cross that threshold. In sessions, my intention is to build trust and a sense of safety so that we can explore the challenges that you are facing.
![Photo of Rick Berghauser, MEd, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/720894a2-fefd-45ae-884e-8bbb3a729b56/2/320x400.jpeg)
I began my career in counselling in 1993 when I entered the helping field working as a Child and Youth Care Counsellor in a residential foster care community. Since then I have worked with biological parents and their families, foster and adoptive parents and their families as well as individual children, youth and adults. I enjoy working with couples as well as individuals on a variety of issues but my specialty is in working with children and youth. Anxiety, depression, family issues and trauma have been the basis of the work of I have been doing over the past 6 years in particular.
I began my career in counselling in 1993 when I entered the helping field working as a Child and Youth Care Counsellor in a residential foster care community. Since then I have worked with biological parents and their families, foster and adoptive parents and their families as well as individual children, youth and adults. I enjoy working with couples as well as individuals on a variety of issues but my specialty is in working with children and youth. Anxiety, depression, family issues and trauma have been the basis of the work of I have been doing over the past 6 years in particular.
![Photo of Kara Fogwell, MA, RCC, RSW, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20867589-64c1-4046-8eb5-582cfe267c04/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been providing counselling support as to individuals, children, and their families for over 15 years. I am passionate about the change that can happen within the counselling relationship. I have a focus on trauma treatment, specifically childhood trauma and first responder support. As well I support children and youth with behavioural difficulties and their families. I spent a large portion of my career supporting children with developmental and behavioural differences. I also own a counselling firm with many associates available to offer larger group and EAP supports. Check out our services at www.vkwellness.ca.
I have been providing counselling support as to individuals, children, and their families for over 15 years. I am passionate about the change that can happen within the counselling relationship. I have a focus on trauma treatment, specifically childhood trauma and first responder support. As well I support children and youth with behavioural difficulties and their families. I spent a large portion of my career supporting children with developmental and behavioural differences. I also own a counselling firm with many associates available to offer larger group and EAP supports. Check out our services at www.vkwellness.ca.
![Photo of Henrik Elzinga, Henrik Elzinga, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59c67d32-db94-494f-8eaa-ed11150dbb93/2/320x400.jpeg)
Henrik Elzinga
Registered Social Worker, Henrik Elzinga, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell River, BC V8A
As a counsellor, I support individuals in learning about themselves, discovering more fulfilling ways to navigate all of life’s challenges. I feel that you are the expert on your own life. I would be honoured to walk with you on your journey, as you build self-awareness through reflection and inquiry, as I believe self-awareness to be the cornerstone of all change. I aim to offer a non-judgmental, empathetic approach, while bringing warmth, curiosity, compassion, integrity, and respect, to the counselling relationship and process. The area of addictions recovery is one of my specialty practice areas.
As a counsellor, I support individuals in learning about themselves, discovering more fulfilling ways to navigate all of life’s challenges. I feel that you are the expert on your own life. I would be honoured to walk with you on your journey, as you build self-awareness through reflection and inquiry, as I believe self-awareness to be the cornerstone of all change. I aim to offer a non-judgmental, empathetic approach, while bringing warmth, curiosity, compassion, integrity, and respect, to the counselling relationship and process. The area of addictions recovery is one of my specialty practice areas.
![Photo of Chad Yurich, RTC, MS, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/536b6f2b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help clients regain trust in themselves. Really trust themselves. Love themselves. Working together we can create a healing container where all parts of the client are welcome. Healing can happen there, old stories can be transmuted, and new life can emerge. This is my passion, lets work together.
My goal is to help clients regain trust in themselves. Really trust themselves. Love themselves. Working together we can create a healing container where all parts of the client are welcome. Healing can happen there, old stories can be transmuted, and new life can emerge. This is my passion, lets work together.
![Photo of Shona Jackson, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d21658-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi I'm Shona. I'm glad you found your way here. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with an office in Powell River. I have worked in a variety of counselling environments including addictions treatment and family counselling agencies. I now offer counselling in a comfortable private practice with flexible hours to fit your schedule. I work from a strengths-based perspective with you guiding the work we do together. I can help you feel better about yourself and your relationships. I can also help reduce the emotional and physical pain you might be experiencing.
Hi I'm Shona. I'm glad you found your way here. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with an office in Powell River. I have worked in a variety of counselling environments including addictions treatment and family counselling agencies. I now offer counselling in a comfortable private practice with flexible hours to fit your schedule. I work from a strengths-based perspective with you guiding the work we do together. I can help you feel better about yourself and your relationships. I can also help reduce the emotional and physical pain you might be experiencing.
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![Photo of Joanne Wright, RTCc, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4bb48d1-3127-4659-886c-d5bf9fba1f86/2/320x400.jpeg)
Virtual counseling provides a safe and encouraging space to discuss life's challenges, tailored to fit each individual’s needs. As a therapist I offer warm, genuine support, focusing on emotional health and relationships. I collaborate with clients to address various issues, drawing from therapeutic models like Mindful CBT, DBT, and somatic therapy. As a Christian counselor, I integrate spirituality for those interested, but welcome clients of all backgrounds. Through my unique approach, I guide clients in understanding themselves and their spiritual journey, facilitating healing and growth.
Virtual counseling provides a safe and encouraging space to discuss life's challenges, tailored to fit each individual’s needs. As a therapist I offer warm, genuine support, focusing on emotional health and relationships. I collaborate with clients to address various issues, drawing from therapeutic models like Mindful CBT, DBT, and somatic therapy. As a Christian counselor, I integrate spirituality for those interested, but welcome clients of all backgrounds. Through my unique approach, I guide clients in understanding themselves and their spiritual journey, facilitating healing and growth.
![Photo of Jocelyn Wood, MA, LMFT, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60378c2a-6199-4815-bafb-745417ecc9e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
For over 20 years, I have practiced client centered talk therapy or psychotherapy; giving importance to the expression of emotions and the therapeutic relationship. I seek to provide a safe space for you to explore your experience of life, so you can identify what is working and what is not. Making sense of your experience can help you understand your view of yourself, of others and of the world. Accessing your emotions can help you understand what is truly meaningful to you. Together we sit with how you see things and what is deeply important to you and work to tap into your internal wisdom and healing potential.
For over 20 years, I have practiced client centered talk therapy or psychotherapy; giving importance to the expression of emotions and the therapeutic relationship. I seek to provide a safe space for you to explore your experience of life, so you can identify what is working and what is not. Making sense of your experience can help you understand your view of yourself, of others and of the world. Accessing your emotions can help you understand what is truly meaningful to you. Together we sit with how you see things and what is deeply important to you and work to tap into your internal wisdom and healing potential.
![Photo of Emmett Martyniuk, RPC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21efc231-46f6-4067-9619-fbe689ebc788/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stuck, disconnected from yourself and others and don’t understand why? For many folks, mental wellness is a topic misunderstood or seldom spoken about. You might feel frustrated, embarrassed or ashamed at struggling with something you don’t understand but you don’t need to struggle alone. Change is possible and I’m here to help. Hi, I'm Emmett (he/him/his) and I help men and people of colour get unstuck, cope better with life's anxiety and challenges, and forge a life based on their values. I'm passionate about growth and connection and especially curious about the components of a meaningful life.
Are you feeling stuck, disconnected from yourself and others and don’t understand why? For many folks, mental wellness is a topic misunderstood or seldom spoken about. You might feel frustrated, embarrassed or ashamed at struggling with something you don’t understand but you don’t need to struggle alone. Change is possible and I’m here to help. Hi, I'm Emmett (he/him/his) and I help men and people of colour get unstuck, cope better with life's anxiety and challenges, and forge a life based on their values. I'm passionate about growth and connection and especially curious about the components of a meaningful life.
![Photo of Chris Walford - Chris Walford Counselling, MA , RCC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48eb667c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"We are made wise not by the recollection of our past, but by the responsibility for our future." George Bernard Shaw-- While working together there is but one expert and, ultimately, one person responsible for your life. That person is you. I consider it an honour to work alongside people who are motivated for change and moving forward in life. We are all very complex and unique I seek to help you identify and address your needs, challenges and goals from a respectful and supportive role. "Freedom is is what you do with what's been done to you." Jean-Paul Sartre
"We are made wise not by the recollection of our past, but by the responsibility for our future." George Bernard Shaw-- While working together there is but one expert and, ultimately, one person responsible for your life. That person is you. I consider it an honour to work alongside people who are motivated for change and moving forward in life. We are all very complex and unique I seek to help you identify and address your needs, challenges and goals from a respectful and supportive role. "Freedom is is what you do with what's been done to you." Jean-Paul Sartre
![Photo of Sarah Quibell, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/107481ae-cc17-4865-abfe-4ba920652b5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Quibell
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Powell River, BC V8A
Waitlist for new clients
Do you yearn for change, desire to understand yourself better, and have an eagerness to break free from the patterns that tether you to repeating cycles? If you answered yes, but are also plagued by self-doubt, uncertainty, and worry; you're not alone. You may find yourself longing for deeper connections, grappling with the intricacies of relationship dynamics, and a complex emotional landscape that leaves you weary and questioning your direction. In all of this, you have difficulty setting boundaries, have no time for yourself, and feel disconnected from life. You may be healing from attachment wounds. This is where I come in.
Do you yearn for change, desire to understand yourself better, and have an eagerness to break free from the patterns that tether you to repeating cycles? If you answered yes, but are also plagued by self-doubt, uncertainty, and worry; you're not alone. You may find yourself longing for deeper connections, grappling with the intricacies of relationship dynamics, and a complex emotional landscape that leaves you weary and questioning your direction. In all of this, you have difficulty setting boundaries, have no time for yourself, and feel disconnected from life. You may be healing from attachment wounds. This is where I come in.
![Photo of Sheena Tracy Lee, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10931f5b-2916-4d4a-86f7-259b1766a77f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Before counselling I worked for over a decade as a midwife. Having worked with individuals and families through the transitions of pregnancy and childbirth, I have seen people discover they have more strength than they thought they had and find new perspectives and connections to themselves and others. The process is similar to the inward journey that counselling invites us to walk. My practice is rooted in a trauma-informed, client-centered and collaborative approach. I aim to create a safe and compassionate space, where you will feel seen and heard, a place where you will find and/or nurture your own inner strength and resilience
Before counselling I worked for over a decade as a midwife. Having worked with individuals and families through the transitions of pregnancy and childbirth, I have seen people discover they have more strength than they thought they had and find new perspectives and connections to themselves and others. The process is similar to the inward journey that counselling invites us to walk. My practice is rooted in a trauma-informed, client-centered and collaborative approach. I aim to create a safe and compassionate space, where you will feel seen and heard, a place where you will find and/or nurture your own inner strength and resilience
![Photo of Sarah Rae Fitzgibbon - SunRae Studio, Creative Wellness Center. , BFA, DKATI, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30d87c92-3f26-41bb-a7f2-c2bd2ce3fc7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
SunRae Studio, Creative Wellness Center.
Art Therapist, BFA, DKATI
Verified Verified
Powell River, BC V8A
Art Therapy merges counselling with creative expression to aid in therapy. The focus is on participation rather than artistic ability. This approach benefits individuals of all ages by encouraging self-expression and gaining insights through the creative process. When working with children, Art Therapy is especially beneficial as they may find it challenging to express themselves verbally. Younger individuals are more accustomed to expressing and communicating through action, creativity, imagination, and play. Art Therapy taps into these forms of expression, fostering emotional growth, comprehension, and connection.
Art Therapy merges counselling with creative expression to aid in therapy. The focus is on participation rather than artistic ability. This approach benefits individuals of all ages by encouraging self-expression and gaining insights through the creative process. When working with children, Art Therapy is especially beneficial as they may find it challenging to express themselves verbally. Younger individuals are more accustomed to expressing and communicating through action, creativity, imagination, and play. Art Therapy taps into these forms of expression, fostering emotional growth, comprehension, and connection.
![Photo of Lisa Shatzky, MSW, RCC, ACS, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94192e70-dc30-4704-bba8-7a2624098e99/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been privileged to work as a psychotherapist for almost thirty years and continue to be in awe of the strength and resilience and wisdom inherent in each person I meet. My role as a psychotherapist is to help you access what is inside you and heal from what has prevented you from becoming the best version of yourself. Together we will transform loss and trauma and life transitions into new hope and possibilities for a life that is psychologically rich and rewarding. Therapy is a relationship with yourself where you re-discover and cultivate the real you. It's about wellness and vitality and creating a life you love.
I have been privileged to work as a psychotherapist for almost thirty years and continue to be in awe of the strength and resilience and wisdom inherent in each person I meet. My role as a psychotherapist is to help you access what is inside you and heal from what has prevented you from becoming the best version of yourself. Together we will transform loss and trauma and life transitions into new hope and possibilities for a life that is psychologically rich and rewarding. Therapy is a relationship with yourself where you re-discover and cultivate the real you. It's about wellness and vitality and creating a life you love.
![Photo of Michelle Patterson, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d12237a2-7c55-4a61-af0a-5b04b339946c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Patterson
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Powell River, BC V8A
Waitlist for new clients
I have 20 years experience working with adolescents & adults (incl. couples) dealing with a variety of mood/anxiety problems, trauma, & relationship difficulties. I provide a structured space to help you explore and identify challenges, and experience different ways of being. Good therapy is not just talking about problems; it requires sorting through layers of emotion, understanding how you protect yourself from emotional pain; identifying & challenging negative thoughts/beliefs; and identifying personal strengths & resources.
I have 20 years experience working with adolescents & adults (incl. couples) dealing with a variety of mood/anxiety problems, trauma, & relationship difficulties. I provide a structured space to help you explore and identify challenges, and experience different ways of being. Good therapy is not just talking about problems; it requires sorting through layers of emotion, understanding how you protect yourself from emotional pain; identifying & challenging negative thoughts/beliefs; and identifying personal strengths & resources.
See more therapy options for V8A
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in V8A
20+
Average cost per session
$140
Counsellors in V8A who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
81% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Stress |
70% | Depression |
70% | Self Esteem |
67% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
64% | Pacific Blue Cross |
64% | Insurance Corporation of British Columbia |
55% | SunLife |
How Counsellors in V8A see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
64% | Female | |
36% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in V8A?
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.