How Desjardins covers therapy in Vancouver
Desjardins group plans pay for therapy through the extended healthcare benefit. Desjardins says members with that benefit can see psychologists, social workers and psychotherapists.
A Desjardins brochure for advisors adds registered clinical counsellors to the same category. Employers set the reimbursement rate, from 50% to 100%, and the yearly maximum, so coverage differs between employers.
Since your plan sets the terms, the designation on a profile matters. Every First Session profile shows the therapist's designation and fee, so you can compare both with your booklet before you book.
What to know about Desjardins therapy in Vancouver
Online and in-person
Online therapy is covered the same as in-person counselling when the provider meets your policy's credentials, according to First Session's Desjardins guide. Session times on the listings use Pacific time unless noted.
Out-of-province therapists on the online listings are insured to provide care to BC clients.
Credentials in British Columbia
Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC) are credentialed by the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. Psychotherapy becomes a regulated profession on November 29, 2027, under the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (CHCPBC), according to the BC government.
Psychologists are regulated by CHCPBC today. Social workers are regulated by the BC College of Social Workers. Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC) hold a national certification from the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.
Cost and insurance
BCACC's 2026 Fee Guide recommends $140 to $155 per 50 minutes for less experienced RCCs and $155 to $175 for more experienced RCCs. Specialized services run $175 to $225, and RCCs may charge more or less.
Some therapists offer direct billing. After each session, First Session emails a receipt with the therapist's name, license number and designation for your claim.
Free skill-building in BC
BounceBack is a free, CBT-based program from CMHA BC for anyone 13 and older with low mood, anxiety, stress or worry. It offers up to six phone coaching sessions, and no diagnosis is needed.
How to choose a Desjardins therapist in Vancouver
1Match the title to your booklet
Find the practitioner types your Desjardins booklet lists. Then filter the listings by that designation and match it to the title shown on each profile.
2Estimate how many sessions you get
Multiply the fee by your reimbursement rate, then divide your yearly maximum by that amount. For example, 80% of a $160 session is $128, so a $2,000 maximum covers 15 full sessions.
3Watch the intro video
With a capped budget, a poor fit costs you sessions. The short video on a profile lets you hear how the therapist talks about your concern before you book.
4Ask two questions in the free consultation
Book the free 15-minute consultation and ask whether the therapist offers direct billing. If the therapist is an RCC, ask whether they plan to apply for CHCPBC licensure once applications open.
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