Therapists for University of Alberta Students

Yes. Students who pay student association fees and meet minimum credit requirements are automatically enrolled. Undergraduates on the UASU Health and Dental Plan are covered for psychologists and social workers at 80% per visit, up to $800 a year (comprehensive option), or 70% per visit, up to $500 a year (basic option). Graduate students on the GSA Health and Dental Plan are covered at 80% per visit, up to $800 per policy year, for "mental health practitioners." The plan doesn't define that term, so confirm your therapist's credentials with your insurer.

Plans change each year, so confirm your coverage with your insurer before booking. If you're unsure whether a therapist qualifies, ask during their free consultation.

Private therapy sessions in Edmonton typically run $120–$235, depending on the therapist's credentials, experience, and specialty. Under the UASU comprehensive health plan, a $175 session is reimbursed at $140, so you'd pay only $35 out of pocket for about five sessions.

First Session lists every therapist's session cost upfront (taxes included) so you can consider your budget first. If cost is a concern, you can filter for therapists offering sliding scale rates, or for student or intern therapists offering low-cost therapy.

The University of Alberta offers students a range of mental health and wellness resources. Students can access free counselling, including short-term individual and group therapy, through Counselling and Clinical Services. The Social Work Team (SWT) provides personalized support for mental health, wellbeing, and everyday challenges from a holistic perspective. The University Health Centre offers medical care, including assessment and treatment for mental health concerns.

Students can also visit the Peer Support Centre, a Students’ Union service that provides a free, confidential, and non-judgmental space to talk and receive support from trained student volunteers. The university also offers wellness workshops and programs to help students support their mental health and wellbeing.

UAlberta Counselling and Clinical Services is free for students and generally short-term. Wait times can fluctuate throughout the academic year, and students who need longer-term support may be referred to off-campus providers. It can be a great starting point, with individual and group therapy plus a Social Work Team for everyday challenges.

Private therapy typically involves paying for sessions out of pocket, although eligible fees may be partially or fully reimbursed through your student health insurance plan. It can provide ongoing support over a longer period and more choice in selecting a therapist whose specialty and approach match your needs.

Complete the Application for Accommodations Based on Medical Protected Grounds online. You'll upload medical documentation from a qualified health care practitioner involved in your care (the University of Alberta Verification of Disability form is available if you need it). Within about a week, the office will review your application and email you to book a meeting with an Accessibility Advisor. Self-diagnosed conditions aren't eligible, but interim accommodations may be available while you wait for documentation.

For missed term work, such as a midterm or assignment, contact your instructor directly. Excused absences are at the instructor's discretion and not automatic. If you miss a final exam, contact your Faculty office as soon as you can and apply for a deferred exam within two working days of the missed exam (or as soon as you're able). Incapacitating mental or physical illness is an accepted reason. See the Registrar's What to do when you are sick page for details.

No. First Session is an independent company, founded in Toronto in 2019, and is not affiliated with the University of Alberta. We created this page specifically to support University of Alberta students and have researched all the information here. However, if you're unsure, we encourage you to double-check details with your school. The therapists listed on First Session are carefully vetted licensed professionals, and their sessions may be eligible for reimbursement through your student health insurance.