Find a Psychologist in Halifax

Therapy in Halifax typically ranges from $120 to $220 per session, depending on the therapist’s credentials, experience, and availability. Some psychologists and other providers offer sliding scale pricing, which adjusts fees based on income or financial situation, making therapy more accessible if cost is a concern.

MSI does not cover private practice therapy with a psychologist, psychotherapist, counsellor, or social worker. However, many people have full or partial coverage through employee benefits, private insurance, or student health plans. To confirm your eligibility, check your benefits booklet or contact your insurance provider directly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check your insurance coverage.

No referral is required to see a private practice therapist in Halifax. You can connect directly with a psychologist, counsellor, psychotherapist, or social worker through First Session.
If you want to see a psychiatrist (a medical doctor who can prescribe medication and diagnose psychiatric conditions but usually does not provide ongoing talk therapy), you will need a referral from your family doctor. Psychiatrist visits are covered by MSI.

Yes. Many Halifax-based therapists provide secure online therapy to clients across Nova Scotia, including Dartmouth, Truro, Cape Breton, and rural or coastal communities.

Psychologists in Halifax offer a wide range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), somatic therapy, couples counselling, and trauma-focused therapies. The right approach depends on your needs and goals, which you can discuss during your free initial consultation.

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Psychologist: Regulated in Nova Scotia. Must register with the Nova Scotia Board of Examiners in Psychology (NSBEP). Holds a Master’s or PhD in Psychology. Diagnose, test, and treat mental health issues.

Counsellor / Psychotherapist (RCT): Regulated in Nova Scotia. Must register with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT). Often holds a relevant Master’s. Provides talk therapy for life, emotional, or relational issues.

Social Worker (RSW): Regulated in Nova Scotia. Must register with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW). Holds a Bachelor's of Social Work (BSW) or a Master's of Social Work (MSW) for clinical. Offer counselling plus social support, advocacy, or casework.

Think about what you’d like to work on — like anxiety, depression, or trauma recovery— and look for a therapist who specializes in that area. Practical factors such as cost, availability, and whether you want in-person or online sessions also matter.

On First Session, you can watch short introductory videos to get a sense of each therapist’s style, then book a free consultation to see if it feels like the right fit. Research shows that the client-therapist relationship is one of the most important factors in successful therapy.

We've also put together a thorough guide to help you find the right therapist, determine what the different designations mean, and what you should be looking for when assessing fit.

Some community clinics, nonprofits, and training programs offer reduced-cost or free therapy options. Sliding scale options are also available in private practices.

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Absolutely. We recognize that age, cultural background, sexuality, and gender identity all shape how people experience therapy. To support every client, First Session works with a diverse and inclusive roster of therapists. You can use filters to find providers by identity, lived experience, or language to ensure a better fit. If you have any feedback about improving this process, we’d love to hear from you.