Therapists for McMaster University Students

• Full-time undergraduates: Automatically enrolled in and covered by the MSU Health & Dental Plan if taking 18 or more academic units across the Fall and Winter terms. This includes specific contractual groups like Midwifery, MBA, Commerce Internship, and Undergraduate Medical students. 
• Part-time undergraduates: Not automatically enrolled, but can opt in to the MSU Health & Dental Plan through the McMaster Association of Part-Time Students (MAPS). 
• Full-time and part-time graduate students: Automatically enrolled in and covered by the GSA Student Health & Dental Plan

The undergraduate insurance plan covers 80% per session up to a maximum of $300 per policy year. The graduate insurance plan covers $100 per visit, up to a maximum of $400 per academic year, though you need a referral from a medical doctor to qualify for reimbursement.

Coverage amount may change from year to year, so check your current plan documents or contact your insurance provider directly to confirm your coverage before booking. 

The undergraduate insurance plan covers clinical psychologists and psychotherapists, while the graduate plan covers clinical psychologists, social workers, clinical counsellors, master of social work (MSW) professionals, and licensed psychotherapists.

Eligible providers may change from year to year, so check your current plan documents or contact your insurance provider directly to confirm your coverage before booking. 

Private therapy in Hamilton typically costs $120 to $220 per session, though rates can change depending on the therapist's credentials, specialty, and experience. First Session lists every therapist's session cost upfront (taxes included) so you can consider your budget first. You can also filter for therapists offering sliding-scale rates and mention you're a student seeking low-cost therapy when reaching out.

McMaster University has a comprehensive range of student mental health resources. The Student Wellness Centre (SWC) offers intake appointments, short-term solution-focused counselling, wellness skills workshops, and therapist-assisted programs. The Student Case Management Office (SCM) assess student needs, refers to campus or community resources, coordinates leaves of absence, and manages complex medical needs. Student Accessibility Services (SAS) provides academic accommodations and related supports for students with disabilities. There are also identity-specific supports and communities like  McMaster Indigenous Health Movement (IHM), Pride Community Centre, Maccess. Learn more from here. 

Counselling at McMaster is free for students, but it is limited to short-term support. Wait times can be long, and students who need longer-term support may be referred to off-campus providers. 

In contrast, private therapy requires you to pay out of pocket, although eligible fees may be partially or fully reimbursed through your student health insurance. It can provide ongoing support over a longer period and more choice in selecting a therapist whose specialty and approach match your needs.

Yes, McMaster students can access online therapy. For insurance reimbursement, it usually doesn’t matter whether the session is online or in person, as long as the provider is covered. Still, check your specific plan to confirm. Many therapists on First Session offer online sessions, with added evening and weekend availability, which can make it easier to fit therapy around a busy student schedule.