Find a Psychologist in Vancouver

Therapy in Vancouver typically ranges from $100 to $250 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.

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

You do not need a referral to see a private practice therapist in Vancouver. 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 diagnose psychiatric conditions and prescribe medication but usually does not provide ongoing talk therapy), you will need a referral from your family doctor. The cost of seeing a psychiatrist is covered by MSP.

Yes. Many Vancouver psychologists provide secure online therapy to clients across British Columbia, including Surrey, Burnaby, Victoria, Kelowna, and rural or remote communities.

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Psychologists in Vancouver 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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• Psychologists: Hold advanced graduate degrees (PhD or PsyD) and are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions.
• Counsellors/Psychotherapists: Focus on talk therapy, emotional support, and skill-building. They may use approaches like CBT, DBT, or somatic therapy. They don’t diagnose conditions but can help with coping, stress, relationships, and personal growth.
• Clinical Social Workers: Have graduate training in social work. They provide therapy as well as support navigating community and social resources (housing, financial assistance, family supports).

All are licensed and regulated in British Columbia, and each can be a good fit depending on your needs, goals, and preferences.

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.

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.