Insurance and Fees

Steps to Determine Your Coverage

• Review Your Insurance Policy: Examine your benefits booklet or online portal to identify coverage for Psychotherapy or Counselling

• Consult Your Insurance Provider or Employer's HR Department: If you have coverage through work, your Human Resources department can provide detailed information about your mental health benefits, coverage limits, and claim procedures.

Tax Considerations

• Fees paid to licensed psychotherapists may qualify as medical expenses for tax purposes.

• Retaining receipts allows you to claim these expenses on your income tax return, potentially providing tax credits.

Public vs Private Coverage

• Understanding insurance coverage for psychotherapy in Canada involves navigating both public healthcare provisions and private insurance options. Here's a comprehensive overview:

• Psychiatrists: they are medical doctors specializing in mental health and their services are covered by provincial and territorial health insurance plans. Accessing a psychiatrist typically requires a referral from a family physician.

• Psychotherapists in private practice are generally not covered by public health insurance plans like the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), or British Columbia's Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Private Insurance Coverage

• Many Canadians obtain supplementary health insurance through employers or personal plans, which often include mental health services. Coverage specifics can vary:

• Insurance Providers: Companies such as Canada Life, Sun Life, Manulife, Green Shield Canada, and Blue Cross commonly offer plans that include psychotherapy coverage.

• Plan Details: Coverage limits, eligible providers, and the number of sessions reimbursed annually can vary. It's essential to review your specific policy or consult directly with your insurance provider to understand your benefits.