Therapists for University of Alberta Students

University of Alberta undergraduate and graduate students who pay student association fees and meet minimum credit requirements are automatically enrolled in their respective student health and dental plans. Undergraduate students are covered by the UASU Health and Dental Plan, while graduate students are covered by the GSA Health and Dental Plan.  

Undergraduate students covered by the UASU Health and Dental Plan can receive 80% reimbursement per visit under the comprehensive coverage option, up to an annual maximum of $800, or 70% reimbursement per visit under the basic coverage option, up to an annual maximum of $500. 

Graduate students covered by the GSA Health and Dental Plan can receive 80% reimbursement per visit, up to a combined maximum of $800 per policy year.

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

For undergraduate students, eligible providers under the UASU Health and Dental Plan include psychologists and social workers. For graduate students, the GSA Health and Dental Plan uses a broader term, “Mental Health Practitioners.” Contact your insurance provider directly to confirm whether your therapist or counsellor’s credentials qualify for coverage.

Private therapy in Alberta typically costs between $120 and $235 per 50-minute session. University of Alberta students can reduce their out-of-pocket costs by using their supplementary health insurance to help cover eligible therapy sessions. First Session lists each therapist's session fee upfront, including taxes, so you can check your budget before booking. You can also filter for therapists who offer sliding scale rates and mention your student status and insurance coverage when reaching out.

The University of Alberta offers students a range of mental health and wellness resources. Students can access free, 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.

Counselling through the University of Alberta's Counselling and Clinical Services is free for students and generally focuses on short-term, goal-oriented care. Wait times can fluctuate throughout the academic year, and students who need longer-term support may be referred to off-campus providers. 

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 experience, approach, and availability match your needs.

Yes, University of Alberta 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 policy before booking. Many therapists on First Session offer online sessions, which can make it easier to fit therapy around classes, work, and other commitments.