Therapy 101

If you’re thinking about starting therapy, you’re not alone; five million Canadians have said they need help for their mental health. One of the most common barriers preventing people from having their needs met is not knowing where to go.

This guide is designed to help you get started. You’ll understand the different types of mental health professionals available, how to choose a therapist type based on your needs, how much it costs, healthcare coverage, and more.

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1.0 Therapy basics

Understand the process of finding the right practitioner, what to expect for your first appointment, how to prepare, and more.

Therapy Basics

Therapy Basics

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First Session

An introduction to therapy, how therapy works, and how to find a therapist match.

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2.0 Types of therapists

Learn the basic differences between psychotherapists, psychologists and social workers and how licensing and education varies across Canada.

Therapy Basics

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First Session

An introduction to therapy, how therapy works, and how to find a therapist match.

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3.0 Therapy costs and coverage

An overview of average costs for therapy and how to know what’s covered by your employer.

Therapy Basics

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Therapy Basics

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First Session

An introduction to therapy, how therapy works, and how to find a therapist match.

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4.0 Mental health specializations

Explore the various therapy services for specific needs, such as therapy for children, family therapy, grief therapy, gender identity and expression therapy, and more.

Therapy Basics

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Therapy Basics

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First Session

An introduction to therapy, how therapy works, and how to find a therapist match.

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5.0 Therapy techniques (modalities)

Find out more about common therapy techniques, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and somatic therapy. 

Therapy Basics

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Therapy Basics

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First Session

An introduction to therapy, how therapy works, and how to find a therapist match.

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Other resources

Find the right therapist for you.

Get started with First Session. You can compare hundreds of licensed therapists, counsellors, psychologists and psychotherapists; and filter by province, specialization, therapy type and more. Watch intro videos, and book online or in-person appointments. Remember, your initial consultations are free.
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