Photo of Katelin Wyness, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Katelin Wyness
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
I work with people who are feeling stuck on something in life and would like to move through it. Whether it's anxiety, low mood, challenging circumstances or anything else life has thrown at you, together we can work on it. Along with offering support and a safe space to speak, we can come up with a plan that uses your individual strengths to create and sustain positive change.
I work with people who are feeling stuck on something in life and would like to move through it. Whether it's anxiety, low mood, challenging circumstances or anything else life has thrown at you, together we can work on it. Along with offering support and a safe space to speak, we can come up with a plan that uses your individual strengths to create and sustain positive change.
(604) 243-2863 View (604) 243-2863
Photo of Mia Maarika - Mia Maarika, RPC, Counsellor
Mia Maarika
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
My goal as a counselor is to create a safe environment and a trusting relationship so that you the client can explore and be curious about yourself even at those times when it is painful. When we grow we are going to be out of our comfort zone but when we feel safe and trusting we are more than capable to do the work to create a more fulfilling life. I use inner child work as the foundation for the work we do together.Instagram page: innerchildworkwithmia
My goal as a counselor is to create a safe environment and a trusting relationship so that you the client can explore and be curious about yourself even at those times when it is painful. When we grow we are going to be out of our comfort zone but when we feel safe and trusting we are more than capable to do the work to create a more fulfilling life. I use inner child work as the foundation for the work we do together.Instagram page: innerchildworkwithmia
(866) 948-9177 View (866) 948-9177
Photo of Janina Zofia Barnett, MACP, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Janina Zofia Barnett
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
It is my hope that through counselling, people who struggle with life’s adversities will grow and change towards living and feeling empowerment, love, and compassion. I work with individuals on a range of areas including relationships, trauma, grief, loss, addiction, anxiety, and depression.
It is my hope that through counselling, people who struggle with life’s adversities will grow and change towards living and feeling empowerment, love, and compassion. I work with individuals on a range of areas including relationships, trauma, grief, loss, addiction, anxiety, and depression.
(431) 441-3477 View (431) 441-3477
Photo of Trishia Unrau, MA, MS, RCC, Counsellor
Trishia Unrau
Counsellor, MA, MS, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Now accepting new clients, adults only. I specialize in EMDR and Art Therapy/Expressive Arts Therapy. I am also trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Emotion Focused Therapy. Expressive Arts Therapy uses all the art forms including visual art, movement, music, theatre and writing. It is a gentle approach where internal resources are highlighted. It is a way to express, contain and problem solve difficult events and emotions. No art experience necessary.
Now accepting new clients, adults only. I specialize in EMDR and Art Therapy/Expressive Arts Therapy. I am also trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Emotion Focused Therapy. Expressive Arts Therapy uses all the art forms including visual art, movement, music, theatre and writing. It is a gentle approach where internal resources are highlighted. It is a way to express, contain and problem solve difficult events and emotions. No art experience necessary.
(250) 753-6322 View (250) 753-6322
Photo of Barb N. Aronchick-Zachernuk, MA, MEd, CCC, RCC, RPTSCPT, Registered Psychotherapist
Barb N. Aronchick-Zachernuk
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MEd, CCC, RCC, RPTSCPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Human beings are complicated-so often we attempt to reach out to others using words to express our thoughts, our emotions, and our behaviours. With children/youth, we see additional communication barriers because of fewer words and limited life experiences. Being part of a family system should bring safety and emotional support but sometimes this is not possible without help. My work is to enable us to become partners in the process of change- discovering strengths, new awareness and building on this. Imagine my holding up a mirror for you, so that with each session, you are able to discover and appreciate more of who you truly are.
Human beings are complicated-so often we attempt to reach out to others using words to express our thoughts, our emotions, and our behaviours. With children/youth, we see additional communication barriers because of fewer words and limited life experiences. Being part of a family system should bring safety and emotional support but sometimes this is not possible without help. My work is to enable us to become partners in the process of change- discovering strengths, new awareness and building on this. Imagine my holding up a mirror for you, so that with each session, you are able to discover and appreciate more of who you truly are.
(855) 730-0987 View (855) 730-0987
Photo of Tyler Joseph Huston - Breath Control Therapy, BCT, OAC
Breath Control Therapy
Licensed Practical Nurse, BCT, OAC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Breath Control Therapy offers breathwork techniques and breathing exercises critical for rehabilitation from both physical and psychological injury and illness but also to maintaining conditioning and improve sports performance.
Breath Control Therapy offers breathwork techniques and breathing exercises critical for rehabilitation from both physical and psychological injury and illness but also to maintaining conditioning and improve sports performance.
(778) 767-5965 View (778) 767-5965
Photo of Johanne Saraceno, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Johanne Saraceno
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Relationship and safety are two core concepts that guide my approach to practice. A grounded understanding in the neurobiology of development and trauma, the role of attachment experiences, as well as contextual factors and a belief in the body’s inherent capacity for healing help inform my assessment and interventions. We heal through knowing ourselves and in connection to the world and the relationships around us.
Relationship and safety are two core concepts that guide my approach to practice. A grounded understanding in the neurobiology of development and trauma, the role of attachment experiences, as well as contextual factors and a belief in the body’s inherent capacity for healing help inform my assessment and interventions. We heal through knowing ourselves and in connection to the world and the relationships around us.
(778) 784-4190 View (778) 784-4190
Photo of Megan Vandersluys, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Megan Vandersluys
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
I truly believe that the hardest part of parenting is undoing the hardwiring we experienced during our own childhood. I help adults make sense of what triggers their own reactivity with their kids, where that came from, how it plays out in their relationships and how to tame those triggers to break the cycle of authoritarian and shame based parenting. It is hard work making those changes but I truly believe it’s never too late to repair those relationships. Using EMDR, I help clients process past childhood memories that hold those negative reactions, so that we can heal and parent from a more empathetic and respectful place.
I truly believe that the hardest part of parenting is undoing the hardwiring we experienced during our own childhood. I help adults make sense of what triggers their own reactivity with their kids, where that came from, how it plays out in their relationships and how to tame those triggers to break the cycle of authoritarian and shame based parenting. It is hard work making those changes but I truly believe it’s never too late to repair those relationships. Using EMDR, I help clients process past childhood memories that hold those negative reactions, so that we can heal and parent from a more empathetic and respectful place.
(778) 763-1446 x101 View (778) 763-1446 x101
Photo of Bonita (Bonnie) Doupe, MC, CCC
Bonita (Bonnie) Doupe
MC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
My background is in working with people who have Special Needs. I hold 2 counselling diplomas and a Master of Counselling degree. I work with individuals, couples and kids. Although my work is challenging, I love my work! I look forward to meeting you and it is my honor to walk beside you as you make decisions around how you will live in relation to yourself and others.
My background is in working with people who have Special Needs. I hold 2 counselling diplomas and a Master of Counselling degree. I work with individuals, couples and kids. Although my work is challenging, I love my work! I look forward to meeting you and it is my honor to walk beside you as you make decisions around how you will live in relation to yourself and others.
(604) 227-8418 View (604) 227-8418
Photo of Catherine Franz, BSc, MPH, RTC, Counsellor
Catherine Franz
Counsellor, BSc, MPH, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Counselling can help individuals, couples and families in times of challenge by offering a judgement free space to be heard, explore solutions, expand perspectives and create the space for healing to occur. Clients seek counselling when they are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, relationship challenges, issues with trust and communication, infidelity and or conflict management. I believe effective therapy is relationship-driven. I invite you to start on a journey where together we face the challenges or struggles you experience.
Counselling can help individuals, couples and families in times of challenge by offering a judgement free space to be heard, explore solutions, expand perspectives and create the space for healing to occur. Clients seek counselling when they are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, relationship challenges, issues with trust and communication, infidelity and or conflict management. I believe effective therapy is relationship-driven. I invite you to start on a journey where together we face the challenges or struggles you experience.
(587) 805-2439 View (587) 805-2439
Photo of Mark Ring, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Mark Ring
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
With over fifteen years of experience and a commitment to ongoing education/training I can help you. Whether you need a safe, non-judgemental person to talk to, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy to help with anger, anxiety or depression, a scientific non-twelve step approach to addictions/compulsive behaviour or hypnotherapy to help with all the above as well as letting go of the past or removal of PTSD/PTSD-like symptoms in a non-retraumatizing manner, I can provide you with the effective services that you need.
With over fifteen years of experience and a commitment to ongoing education/training I can help you. Whether you need a safe, non-judgemental person to talk to, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy to help with anger, anxiety or depression, a scientific non-twelve step approach to addictions/compulsive behaviour or hypnotherapy to help with all the above as well as letting go of the past or removal of PTSD/PTSD-like symptoms in a non-retraumatizing manner, I can provide you with the effective services that you need.
(866) 625-7117 View (866) 625-7117
Photo of Rebecca Fairweather, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Rebecca Fairweather
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
I offer person-centered, strength-based services to support clients with anxiety, low mood, OCD, trauma healing, addiction, relationships, and sexuality. My areas of focus include: LGBTQIA2+ Affirming Counselling: I offer a safe space to explore sexuality, gender identity, and the umbrella of diverse expressions within the community.
I offer person-centered, strength-based services to support clients with anxiety, low mood, OCD, trauma healing, addiction, relationships, and sexuality. My areas of focus include: LGBTQIA2+ Affirming Counselling: I offer a safe space to explore sexuality, gender identity, and the umbrella of diverse expressions within the community.
(778) 771-3876 View (778) 771-3876
Photo of Patricia Gage, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Patricia Gage
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Navigating life's challenges can be lonely, overwhelming, and exhausting. I seek to empower my clients along their path to growth and wellness through providing genuine, empathetic, caring, and skilled support. I work with a wide range of ages, from preschoolers to retirees. I offer individual counselling (youth and adults), play therapy, couples, and family therapy.
Navigating life's challenges can be lonely, overwhelming, and exhausting. I seek to empower my clients along their path to growth and wellness through providing genuine, empathetic, caring, and skilled support. I work with a wide range of ages, from preschoolers to retirees. I offer individual counselling (youth and adults), play therapy, couples, and family therapy.
(778) 200-8959 View (778) 200-8959
Photo of Kristen Buckland, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Kristen Buckland
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Sometimes we pretend we are fine and things are going well because don't want to burden anyone with our worries or appear "weak." Sometimes it feels like the way the world works, just does not work for us! Sometimes It can feel like we are working 10 times harder than anyone else, and we just don't meet the mark. And sometimes we feel like we just don't fit. Expectations at school, work, sports teams, home life, and our relationships can feel all-encompassing and overwhelming. Whether you are a child, a teen, an adult, or a parent, you fit here. Every ability, gender, race, sexual orientation, and culture, fits here.
Sometimes we pretend we are fine and things are going well because don't want to burden anyone with our worries or appear "weak." Sometimes it feels like the way the world works, just does not work for us! Sometimes It can feel like we are working 10 times harder than anyone else, and we just don't meet the mark. And sometimes we feel like we just don't fit. Expectations at school, work, sports teams, home life, and our relationships can feel all-encompassing and overwhelming. Whether you are a child, a teen, an adult, or a parent, you fit here. Every ability, gender, race, sexual orientation, and culture, fits here.
(249) 502-9944 x3 View (249) 502-9944 x3
Photo of Yvette Macarthur, MA, RPsych, RCC, Psychologist
Yvette Macarthur
Psychologist, MA, RPsych, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
I have had the honour throughout the past 20 years of my career to witness the power of individuals and families to make positive changes in their lives. My past experience includes work within counselling agencies, health centres, and with the government, supporting children, youth, and adults. My primary areas of therapy include anxiety, depression, stress, self esteem and interpersonal issues. I have specific training in cognitive-behavioural therapy and trauma focused CBT. I believe the relationship between myself and those I work with is integral, where your preferences inform our time together.
I have had the honour throughout the past 20 years of my career to witness the power of individuals and families to make positive changes in their lives. My past experience includes work within counselling agencies, health centres, and with the government, supporting children, youth, and adults. My primary areas of therapy include anxiety, depression, stress, self esteem and interpersonal issues. I have specific training in cognitive-behavioural therapy and trauma focused CBT. I believe the relationship between myself and those I work with is integral, where your preferences inform our time together.
(587) 870-2356 View (587) 870-2356
Photo of Ann Elizabeth Holroyd, PhD, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Ann Elizabeth Holroyd
Counsellor, PhD, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
The process of choosing a counsellor begins long-before you arrive at the first session. Often there is a feeling within ourselves that something is just not right. It may be a time marked by a great deal of personal introspection or it could be an intervention from an external source -school, family, friends, your doctor - that motivates contact with a therapist. As a person-centred therapist, I will work with you to establish a meaningful relationship where you feel safe to explore and resolve issues that fit your unique needs at this moment in time.
The process of choosing a counsellor begins long-before you arrive at the first session. Often there is a feeling within ourselves that something is just not right. It may be a time marked by a great deal of personal introspection or it could be an intervention from an external source -school, family, friends, your doctor - that motivates contact with a therapist. As a person-centred therapist, I will work with you to establish a meaningful relationship where you feel safe to explore and resolve issues that fit your unique needs at this moment in time.
(844) 611-0716 View (844) 611-0716
Photo of Jessika Clark, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Jessika Clark
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
I wholeheartedly believe in every human's potential to rise above the things bringing them down and create a life worth living. When I get the privilege to work with people in counselling, my top priority is to create a space that reflects your unique needs and personal goals.
I wholeheartedly believe in every human's potential to rise above the things bringing them down and create a life worth living. When I get the privilege to work with people in counselling, my top priority is to create a space that reflects your unique needs and personal goals.
(548) 490-6994 View (548) 490-6994
Photo of Melanie Digney, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Melanie Digney
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Are you struggling with difficult emotions or anxious thoughts? Are you experiencing changes, challenges or losses which make it difficult to function? I work with adults who are feeling overwhelmed by daily life, in their relationships or at work. Using a person-centred approach, I offer a safe space where you can feel comfortable, heard and understood. A place where we can work together on your goals at your pace, attending to your unique requirements and the situations you are responding to. I draw from various theoretical perspectives to gain insight into your life experiences and narrow the focus to what is important to you.
Are you struggling with difficult emotions or anxious thoughts? Are you experiencing changes, challenges or losses which make it difficult to function? I work with adults who are feeling overwhelmed by daily life, in their relationships or at work. Using a person-centred approach, I offer a safe space where you can feel comfortable, heard and understood. A place where we can work together on your goals at your pace, attending to your unique requirements and the situations you are responding to. I draw from various theoretical perspectives to gain insight into your life experiences and narrow the focus to what is important to you.
(778) 715-5067 View (778) 715-5067
Photo of Jim Myklebust - Oceanside Counselling Solutions, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Oceanside Counselling Solutions
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
I bring decades of experience helping emergency services and health care professionals find solutions to the cumulative stress they experience every day in their jobs. Without a safe place to work through these normal reactions to abnormal events, careers can be cut short and the families of these professionals struggle as well. Together we can find solutions for work related stress and other issues such as: the impact on the families, grief and loss, addiction/recovery and enhance existing coping skills. I enjoy working with a wide range of age groups from young adult to adult.
I bring decades of experience helping emergency services and health care professionals find solutions to the cumulative stress they experience every day in their jobs. Without a safe place to work through these normal reactions to abnormal events, careers can be cut short and the families of these professionals struggle as well. Together we can find solutions for work related stress and other issues such as: the impact on the families, grief and loss, addiction/recovery and enhance existing coping skills. I enjoy working with a wide range of age groups from young adult to adult.
(778) 654-4718 View (778) 654-4718
Photo of Janice Michieli - Janice Michieli Counselling Services, RCC, Counsellor
Janice Michieli Counselling Services
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
My goal is to help clients understand what they need and to reduce the stress and anxiety in their lives so they can reach their potential and feel they can manage life in a way that brings them more happiness, awareness and self acceptance.
My goal is to help clients understand what they need and to reduce the stress and anxiety in their lives so they can reach their potential and feel they can manage life in a way that brings them more happiness, awareness and self acceptance.
(226) 840-2041 View (226) 840-2041
Photo of Lisa Bylsma, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Lisa Bylsma
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Accepting new clients. Available for in-person sessions in Nanaimo or virtual sessions anywhere in BC. - After over 12 years working as a counsellor within government and non-profit organizations, I have decided to open my own practice. In my years of working with people, I have come to strongly believe that people and their problems make sense. I can help you understand your struggles, your emotions, and yourself. I aim to understand you holistically, including your complex life. I strive to listen deeply, to be genuine, and to really see you.
Accepting new clients. Available for in-person sessions in Nanaimo or virtual sessions anywhere in BC. - After over 12 years working as a counsellor within government and non-profit organizations, I have decided to open my own practice. In my years of working with people, I have come to strongly believe that people and their problems make sense. I can help you understand your struggles, your emotions, and yourself. I aim to understand you holistically, including your complex life. I strive to listen deeply, to be genuine, and to really see you.
(825) 435-1008 View (825) 435-1008
Photo of Kristen Catton, RSW, MSW, RCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Catton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9S
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), with a Masters degree in Social Work (MSW) from UBC. I feel incredibly lucky to work with Jan and Katelin and together we have formed Covalent Health Consulting, a health centre providing clinical therapy with extensive capacity. I have been working in private practice for the past 4 years at Three Story Clinic in Vancouver, in a practice devoted to children, youth and families. I have also had the great benefit of working at BC Children’s Hospital as a clinician, group therapist and teacher of psychiatric residents for 15 years. My experience at Children’s Hospital was invaluable and I g
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), with a Masters degree in Social Work (MSW) from UBC. I feel incredibly lucky to work with Jan and Katelin and together we have formed Covalent Health Consulting, a health centre providing clinical therapy with extensive capacity. I have been working in private practice for the past 4 years at Three Story Clinic in Vancouver, in a practice devoted to children, youth and families. I have also had the great benefit of working at BC Children’s Hospital as a clinician, group therapist and teacher of psychiatric residents for 15 years. My experience at Children’s Hospital was invaluable and I g
(778) 717-7185 View (778) 717-7185
Photo of Tara Rinke, RTC, Counsellor
Tara Rinke
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
Feeling stuck and disconnected from ourselves and our loved ones is a common human experience in this day in age. Yet, all of us have a deep longing to feel empowered and engaged, to love and be loved, and to experience a deep and meaningful life. Relationships are the core of our fulfillment, and they all start with our relationship to ourselves. However struggles are manifesting, uncovering the layers of our defenses and opening to our inner world and true selves is a courageous journey worth travelling.
Feeling stuck and disconnected from ourselves and our loved ones is a common human experience in this day in age. Yet, all of us have a deep longing to feel empowered and engaged, to love and be loved, and to experience a deep and meaningful life. Relationships are the core of our fulfillment, and they all start with our relationship to ourselves. However struggles are manifesting, uncovering the layers of our defenses and opening to our inner world and true selves is a courageous journey worth travelling.
(431) 631-7127 View (431) 631-7127
Photo of Natalie Webber, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Natalie Webber
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S
I am passionate about supporting parents in pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. As a mother of little ones, I recognize parenthood's unique challenges and rewards as well as its toll on mental health. I want to support you through life's ups and downs as you navigate each new stage of parenting. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy that focuses on your journey, values, strengths, and goals. I hope to foster self-care and self-compassion in parenthood. I strive to create safe and non-judgmental therapeutic relationships that understand you and your unique experiences.
I am passionate about supporting parents in pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. As a mother of little ones, I recognize parenthood's unique challenges and rewards as well as its toll on mental health. I want to support you through life's ups and downs as you navigate each new stage of parenting. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy that focuses on your journey, values, strengths, and goals. I hope to foster self-care and self-compassion in parenthood. I strive to create safe and non-judgmental therapeutic relationships that understand you and your unique experiences.
(807) 790-2867 View (807) 790-2867
Photo of Alice Curitz, MA, RCC, CCC, CST, Counsellor
Alice Curitz
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC, CST
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9S  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes it can feel like we're stuck, lost and have to try to figure it out alone. I'm here to support you in redefining who you are and what you want. Create the life you truly deserve by working through the tough stuff and embracing your unique abilities. I believe that connection is what helps us to heal and grow. My practice is based on building an authentic connection with you in order to help you become empowered to reach your goals. I work with clients across Canada via video chat and phone.
Sometimes it can feel like we're stuck, lost and have to try to figure it out alone. I'm here to support you in redefining who you are and what you want. Create the life you truly deserve by working through the tough stuff and embracing your unique abilities. I believe that connection is what helps us to heal and grow. My practice is based on building an authentic connection with you in order to help you become empowered to reach your goals. I work with clients across Canada via video chat and phone.
(778) 901-2715 View (778) 901-2715

See more therapy options for V9S

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in V9S

50+

Average cost per session

$140

Counsellors in V9S who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
84% Depression
76% Coping Skills
73% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% Relationship Issues
69% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

50% CVAP | Crime Victim
42% Pacific Blue Cross
38% First Nations Health Authority

How Counsellors in V9S see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
18% Male
6% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in V9S?

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

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.

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.

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.

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.