How Greenshield coverage works for therapy in Vancouver
GreenShield says eligible providers depend on the plan. It describes psychologists as widely covered and social workers and registered psychotherapists as increasingly covered on newer plans.
On its Link 1 and Link 4 plan pages, GreenShield lists psychologists, psychotherapists and Registered Social Workers under one $600 per person per year maximum, combined. Those pages do not name Registered Clinical Counsellors, so check your booklet if you are considering an RCC.
First Session shows the designation on every profile, so you can compare it to your booklet before you book. Therapists are interviewed on camera and credential-verified before their profile goes live.
What to know about Greenshield therapy coverage in Vancouver
Online and in-person
GreenShield members can submit claims online or through the GreenShield+ app, and can upload a digital copy of the receipt. Vancouver is on Pacific time, so check the time zone on the booking calendar of an out-of-province therapist.
The online listing shows therapists from other provinces who are insured to provide online therapy in British Columbia.
Credentials in British Columbia
BCACC grants the Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) designation. RSWs register with the BC College of Social Workers. The College of Health and Care Professionals of BC has regulated psychology since the colleges merged on June 28, 2024.
Psychotherapy becomes a regulated profession in BC on November 29, 2027, with the protected title Psychotherapist, according to the BC government.
Cost and insurance
First Session's Vancouver guide puts sessions at $125 to $300 or more. BCACC's 2026 fee guide for its members recommends $140 to $225 per 50-minute session, depending on experience and specialty.
First Session's guide adds that private-practice sessions are outside the Medical Services Plan. At $150 a session, a $600 yearly maximum pays for four sessions.
How to choose a therapist covered by Greenshield in Vancouver
1Find your plan's provider list
Look in your booklet for the mental health or psychology benefit and note which titles it names. Then filter by that designation. A plan that names psychologists and RSWs may leave RCCs out, so match the title before the specialty.
2Do the maximum math
Fees appear on profiles before you book. Divide your yearly maximum by the fee to see how many sessions it pays for, then ask the therapist about a schedule that fits that number.
3Watch the intro video
A written bio lists training and a video shows tone. Watch two or three, then book a consultation with the one whose pace and warmth suit you.
4Ask about your receipt
In the free 15-minute consultation, ask which designation appears on your receipt. GreenShield's claim steps ask you to choose a service type, and the designation tells you which one to pick.
Looking for something more specific?
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