Online Therapy in Canada | Licensed Therapists Nationwide

Online therapy in Canada lets you conveniently connect with licensed therapists via phone, computer, or tablet. Therapists use secure platforms like Zoom, Jane Video or specialized telehealth tools that protect your privacy.

Before committing, many therapists offer free phone or video consultations to assess your fit and needs. You can easily book these consultations and sessions directly through First Session’s online platform.

Therapists and counsellors listed on First Session are often covered under your health insurance and group benefits. If you are unsure of your coverage, check out our guide: how to find a therapist covered by insurance in Canada.

For immediate mental health support, free confidential counselling services are available locally across Canada.

In Canada, therapists include psychiatrists, psychologists, registered psychotherapists, social workers, counselling therapists, and counsellors. These professionals must meet provincial regulations and education standards governed by licensing bodies.

• Psychiatrists: Medical doctors who diagnose mental health disorders and prescribe medications. Typically accessed via referral.
• Psychologists: Hold PhDs or master’s degrees, can diagnose mental health conditions, and offer psychotherapy.
• Registered Psychotherapists (RPs): Specialize in talk therapy to treat emotional and behavioural concerns. Learn more about RP (Qualifying).
• Registered Social Workers (RSWs): Offer counselling and therapy across various settings. Learn more about MSW RSW.
• Counselling Therapists: Recognized in provinces like Nova Scotia, offering specialized counselling and therapeutic services.
• Clinical Counsellors: In less regulated provinces such as British Columbia, you'll find designations like Registered Clinical Counsellors.

First Session allows you to book sessions with psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers, and counselling therapists across Canada.

Therapy costs in Canada typically range from $50 to $350 per session, depending on your therapist’s credentials and experience. Workplace insurance benefits often cover therapy costs. Check your benefits booklet for coverage details. Typically, you pay upfront and submit claims for reimbursement. Employers do not see your therapy usage.

Therapists listed on First Session indicate clearly if they offer affordable or sliding-scale pricing based on financial need.

Anyone in Canada can book therapy without needing a referral. You don’t have to wait for severe symptoms to seek help; therapy is beneficial at any stage of your mental health journey.

Therapists on First Session offer:

• Couples and marriage therapy
• Men’s therapy
• Group therapy
• Family therapy

Specialized therapists are available for children, teens, youth, and diverse communities, including 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPOC populations.

Canadian therapists offer specialized treatment for many mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, grief, OCD, PTSD, and more. If you're unsure of your specific needs, you can browse therapists by focus area can help clarify during initial consultations.

Popular specializations available:

• Trauma therapy
• Anxiety therapy
• Depression therapy
• OCD therapy
• Relationship therapy
• Grief therapy
• Sex therapy
• PTSD therapy

Therapists use various treatment techniques or modalities, customized to your needs:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours. Often includes practical homework.
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): A CBT type suitable for intense emotional reactions, focusing on managing extremes through structured techniques.
• Somatic Therapy: Focuses on bodily sensations and physical responses to stress, ideal for trauma recovery.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Uses guided eye movements to reprocess traumatic memories effectively.
• Psychedelic Therapy: Work with a trained professional in Canada to help you integrate psychedelic experiences.

Therapists on First Session clearly list their preferred modalities on their profiles.

Several free and subsidized mental health programs exist across Canada:

• Provincial Healthcare: Although often difficult to find, Psychiatrists and some medical doctors provide free mental healthcare if referred by a family doctor.
• Low-cost clinics: Many community and government-funded clinics provide accessible mental health care.

You don’t need a doctor's referral to start seeing a therapist in Canada. Here’s how you can begin:

1. Find a Therapist: Search online directories such as First Session, ask for recommendations from family, friends, or your family doctor, or check your insurance provider’s approved therapists list.
2. Schedule an Appointment: Contact therapists directly to inquire about their experience, approach, availability, fees, and if they offer sliding-scale payments.
3. Attend an Initial Consultation: Many therapists offer a free initial consultation. This first meeting lets you discuss your concerns, background, and goals, and gives you a chance to evaluate if the therapist feels like the right fit.

Finding the ideal therapist can take some time. Don’t hesitate to explore different therapists or therapy methods until you find what works best for you. Ask questions openly, and advocate for your needs throughout the process.

Approaching a therapist for the first time can feel intimidating, but remember that therapists are professionals dedicated to helping you.

1. Acknowledge your courage: Seeking therapy is brave and essential. Take a moment to recognize and celebrate this important step.
2. Research Therapists: Look for therapists you feel comfortable with through online directories like First Session or via referrals from friends, family, or healthcare providers.
3. Initial Consultation: Many therapists offer free initial phone or video consultations. Use this opportunity to ask questions about their experience, their therapeutic approach, and discuss your initial concerns.
4. Prepare for Your First Session: Reflect on what you want to discuss and your therapy goals. Writing down your thoughts and questions beforehand can ease anxiety and enhance your first session.
5. Be Open and Honest: Share your feelings and challenges openly during your session. Therapy is a confidential, judgment-free space designed to support you.
6. Ask Questions: Feel free to ask your therapist about their methods, expertise, and session expectations. This helps build trust and comfort.