Can I Afford Therapy in Calgary with a Psychologist? Exploring Options for Affordable Mental Health Care
Seeking therapy is a crucial step towards improving mental well-being and healing our difficult past traumas. The cost of private practice psychologists in Calgary, which averages around $220 per hour, can be daunting for many individuals and is often enough of a barrier that many individuals stop searching for mental health support altogether. Whether you’re considering therapy for the first time or looking for more affordable options, understanding the financial landscape and available resources is crucial. Many clients don’t realize that they may qualify for mental health support or can access supports for lower costs if they are facing financial hardships; sometimes there are resources available through the government or a not for profit in the community that they weren’t even aware that they had the possibility of accessing.
We have gotten many calls from clients who are seeking therapy with a Calgary psychologist who have access to financial supports that they didn’t realize was possible such as Veteran’s Affairs Canada or Non-Insured Health Benefits. We also get calls from international students who need help and don’t have the financial means to afford psychologists at a private practice. This blog was created to give those clients more insights into what kind of support is available for clients seeking therapy in Calgary.
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Understanding the Cost of Therapy in Calgary
Private practice psychologists in Calgary typically charge between $180 to $250 per session, with sessions lasting around 50 minutes to an hour. For those without insurance coverage, this expense can become overwhelming, especially since therapy often involves multiple sessions over an extended period. Typically, achieving therapeutic goals requires at least 6 sessions which equates to around $1300 – but many clients who are struggling with depressions or other more severe issues can require at least 12 sessions, meaning over $2600 in a private practice setting in Calgary with a registered psychologist.
Private practice counsellors typically charge between $140 and $200 per session, which means that the costs for a course of therapy with a Calgary counsellor could range from about $960 to $1920.
Insurance Coverage for Therapy in Calgary
One of the primary ways individuals manage therapy costs is through insurance coverage. Here’s a breakdown of the types of coverage provided by different insurers:
Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance:
Many employers in Calgary offer robust extended health benefits that include coverage for psychological services. Companies known for good insurance coverage in the area include major corporations like Enbridge, Suncor Energy, and Shaw Communications. These plans typically cover a significant portion of therapy costs, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for employees. Specific details vary by employer, so employees should consult their HR departments for information about coverage levels and eligibility.
Private Health Insurance Plans:
Individuals can also purchase private health insurance plans that may include coverage for therapy. AB Blue Cross, one of Alberta’s leading health insurance providers, offers various plans that cover psychological services. Other insurers like Manulife, Sun Life Financial, and Great-West Life also provide comprehensive health insurance plans that include mental health coverage. It’s important to review policy details, including coverage limits, deductibles, and co-payment requirements.
Government Programs for Therapy in Calgary
Government programs can be a crucial resource for individuals who do not have access to private insurance coverage. Here are some options:
Alberta Health Services (AHS):
Alberta Health Services offers mental health services through various programs, including community-based mental health clinics and hospital services. While coverage specifics can vary, individuals dealing with severe mental health conditions such as major depression or suicidal ideation may qualify for subsidized or fully covered services. Eligibility criteria and coverage details can be obtained through AHS directly or through a healthcare provider such as a medical doctor.
Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) for First Nations People:
Native Americans with treaty status can access Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB), which covers up to $187 per session and allows for up to 22 sessions per year for counselling services. Direct billing for NIHB is available at select counselling practices, such as with Kari Adams at Best Choice Counselling & Assessments in Calgary.
Veterans Affairs Canada:
Veterans qualify for coverage for counselling services through Veterans Affairs Canada, administered by Medavie Blue Cross. This coverage includes services provided by registered psychologists and therapists who are set up with Medavie Blue Cross and can cover up to around 20 sessions per year and sometimes can include counselling for a spouse if it will benefit the veteran. Practices like Best Choice Counselling & Assessments in Calgary are equipped to handle direct billing for Veteran’s Affairs Canada and Medavie Blue Cross clients.
Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD):
The FSCD program helps families plan, coordinate, and access services to raise a child with disabilities. Eligibility criteria include medical documentation confirming the child has a chronic developmental, physical, sensory, mental, or neurological condition impacting daily living activities. Supports under FSCD include counselling services, among others, to assist families in managing the challenges associated with their child’s disability.
What to Do If You Can’t Afford Private Practice Psychologists or Counselling
If you don’t have the financial means for private practice counselling or psychologists in Calgary, there are a number of non-profits and organizations that can help; one of our favorites to recommend is Calgary Counselling Centre.
Calgary Counselling Centre: Affordable Options through a Sliding Scale Fee
The Calgary Counselling Centre offers a valuable alternative for those who cannot afford private practice rates. Through their counselling internship program, supervised by registered psychologists, they provide low-cost counselling on a sliding scale fee based on income. This means that fees are adjusted according to what an individual or family can afford, making quality mental health care more accessible. Low-cost counselling on a sliding scale is offered through their counselling internship training program but they also have higher cost options with registered psychologists and social workers. They offer one of the best training programs in Canada and their interns benefit from continual training, supervision, case consultations with professionals, and peer support.
Distress Centre Calgary
Provides crisis support and short-term counselling services at no cost. They offer a 24/7 crisis line and can connect individuals with ongoing support services.
YW Calgary
Offers counselling services on a sliding scale fee, prioritizing accessibility for all individuals regardless of income level. They provide a range of counselling options tailored to various needs. YW Calgary has a variety of programs aimed at domestic violence and provide special supports for individuals and families dealing with this.
University of Calgary Psychology Clinic
Operated by the university’s Department of Psychology, this clinic provides reduced-cost psychological services through supervised graduate students in psychology. Services cover a broad spectrum of psychological issues and are conducted under the guidance of licensed professionals.
Sheldon M. Chumir Health Centre
Offers counselling services on a sliding scale fee through their Community Mental Health and Addictions Clinic. They provide assessment and treatment services for a range of mental health concerns.
Eastside Family Centre
Provides counselling services on a sliding scale fee for individuals, couples, and families. They offer services in multiple languages and focus on enhancing family relationships and individual well-being.
Making Therapy More Affordable
When exploring therapy options, consider the following tips to make therapy more financially manageable:
- Research Insurance Coverage: Understand what your insurance plan covers and any limitations or requirements regarding therapy services.
- Utilize Sliding Scale Fees: Take advantage of organizations that offer sliding scale fees based on income, like the Calgary Counselling Centre and other community-based clinics.
- Explore Government Programs: Investigate whether Alberta Health Services or other provincial programs offer subsidies or coverage for therapy services, especially for specific mental health diagnoses.
Accessing Affordable Therapy in Calgary
Accessing therapy in Calgary can be financially challenging, but it’s not impossible. By exploring insurance coverage options, utilizing services like the Calgary Counselling Centre’s sliding scale fee program, and considering other low-cost resources, individuals can find a pathway to affordable mental health care. Remember, investing in your mental health is crucial for overall well-being, and there are organizations and professionals ready to support you on that journey.
Whether you’re navigating insurance options or exploring community-based services, finding the right fit for your needs and budget is essential. Don’t hesitate to reach out to these organizations for more information or to discuss your specific situation.
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