Therapists for University of Calgary Students

Full-time undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Calgary are automatically enrolled in the student health and dental plans upon registering for classes. Undergraduates are covered by the Students' Union (SU) Health and Dental Plan, and graduate students are covered by the GSA Health and Dental Plan. 

Undergraduate students are covered for 80% of eligible therapy and counselling expenses, up to a maximum of $20 per visit, with an overall maximum of $300 per benefit year. However, they need a doctor's referral to be reimbursed. Graduate students are covered for 100% of eligible therapy and counselling expenses, up to a maximum of $500 per student year. They do not need a referral. 

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. 

Students' Union (SU) Health and Dental Plan for undergraduate students covers Psychologists, Registered Social Workers, Registered Psychotherapists, Registered Clinical Counsellors, Canadian Certified Counsellors, and more. The GSA Health and Dental Plan for graduate students covers Licensed Psychologists, Registered Social Workers/Master of Social Work, Licensed Professional Counsellors, Licensed Counselling Therapists, and Psychotherapists.

Check your coverage by reviewing your student plan's benefits booklet online through the Students' Union UCalgary (for undergraduates) or the Graduate Students' Association (for graduate students). 

Private therapy in Calgary typically costs between $160 and $235 per 50-minute session. University of Calgary students can reduce their out-of-pocket costs by using their student health and dental plan 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, which reduce the cost of therapy based on a client's financial circumstances.

The University of Calgary offers several mental health resources for students. Through Counselling Services, students can access a one-time counselling appointment and, when appropriate, brief ongoing counselling with referrals to other supports for longer-term or specialized care.

Student Support Advising helps students navigate university and community resources, set goals, and build healthy habits. Advisors may also provide support tailored to specific needs, including harm reduction, Indigenous student support, and international student support.

Students can also access Peer Support, where they can drop in and talk with trained student volunteers in a supportive, informal setting.

Counselling through the University of Calgary’s Counselling 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. 

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.

Yes, University of Calgary 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.