What is the Cost of Therapy in Canada?

The price of therapy varies greatly across Canada depending on a number of variables. Private or employer-provided insurance may provide full or partial coverage, and certain Canadians may also have access to low-cost, free, or government-funded choices.

Knowing what you are eligible for and how much therapy will cost is crucial since for many people, cost is a deciding factor.

Psychologists vs Counsellors

Psychologists typically have a "PsyD," so their rates are a little more than those of counselors, ranging from $200 to $250 each session. Counselors do not offer evaluations or diagnosis; psychologists do. Most counselors have a master's degree in social work or counseling psychology.

Counselors employ many of the same approaches as psychologists (such as somatic treatments, CBT, and others), but because they do not provide formal exams and diagnoses, their session rates often vary from $90 to $170.

How to Find a Therapist that Fits Your Needs

Cost will be one of the elements to take into account while selecting the best therapist. Make sure you pick someone you feel comfortable opening up to because therapy is a safe environment where you may speak about your problems.

Consider the topics you will be addressing as many therapists have specialties in certain areas. Here are a few additional suggestions on how to pick the ideal counselor for you.

Is Therapy Covered by Insurance in Canada?

Usually, treatment is covered if a person receives mental health care while in a hospital or during a doctor visit.

In Canada, seeing a psychiatrist on a doctor's recommendation is also covered; however, keep in mind that a psychiatrist is distinct from a psychologist or a counselor.

A psychiatrist will not directly deliver psychotherapy to patients; instead, they will simply diagnose a patient's mental disease and recommend medicine.

In Canada, provincial healthcare plans do not directly cover psychotherapists, social workers, or counselors who operate in private practices despite having a license and registration; nevertheless, there are instances in which public health systems provide mental health services for free.

How Much Does Each Therapy Type Cost?

Costs can vary depending on the kind of therapist you see. Support groups frequently cost nothing, although therapy groups with professionals might.

As the therapist can split the expense amongst several clients, group treatment frequently costs less than individual therapy. It may be more expensive to receive treatment through long-term retreats or rehabilitation programs.

Several therapy programs base their fees on the length of the sessions, and the charges for these programs can vary.

A 60-minute session may cost the same as or more than a 45-minute appointment, depending on the therapist. Ask about the costs and available options at each clinic, practice, and online service you consider using. If your looking for a practice with multiple locations throughout Canada, take a look at The Therapy Centre.

Private Insurance and Medical Benefits

You may earn an annual medical allowance for therapy and counseling if you pay into medical benefits through your employer or pay for private insurance. Double check the amount that will be covered with your employer or insurance provider.

What About Sliding Scale?

If the costs listed seem a little out of reach, sliding scale therapy is a fantastic alternative. Therapists frequently provide therapy at sliding scale fees in order to make it affordable for everyone.

This might be a few dollars or even as much as 50% of their hourly salary. Online ads for this option are not always there. Do not be afraid to phone or email an office and inquire about sliding scale pricing if you are considering therapy but are concerned about the cost.

Our Thoughts

Those who require therapy understand that, despite the potential increased cost, the advantages much outweigh it. Your mental and emotional health are indescribably valuable.

Having said that, there are numerous ways to help subsidize or increase everyone's access to therapy. To find out what options are subsidized, contact the provincial services in your area.