Reduced Cost Counselling in Vancouver (and Beyond): A Guide
We’re all familiar with the absurd cost of living these days. It’s made accessing affordable mental health support a real challenge for many.
My sliding scale spots are full for the foreseeable future, but in my non-profit role I often consult with clients about finding reduced-cost options. Looking for these kinds of services can feel like navigating a maze; I hope that the information below can help you find the right kind of help that fits your budget and your needs.
Avenues for Reduced-Cost Services
Student Interns
Many counselling practices offer reduced-cost sessions with counsellors-in-training (students completing their internships) or counsellors who are new to practicing. Newer doesn’t mean lesser: these individuals often bring a fresh perspective and a wealth of personal experience to their sessions. Of course, it's important to see if their approach and training aligns with you. Don't hesitate to discuss this (and anything else that feels important to you) during your initial consultation to ensure a good fit.
Local practices with intern and/or associate counsellors include Peak Resilience, Collective Healing, Looking Glass Foundation, Fieldwork Counselling, Avery Therapy Centre, and many more.
Resource Pages
These pages can help you to locate reduced-cost mental health supports:
PsychologyToday.ca: This site allows you to filter search results by price, making it easier to find therapists within your budget. (There are also other filters available, so you can find exactly what you’re looking for).
Help Starts Here - Free or Low-Cost Services in BC: A guide to various free/low-cost services in BC.
Willow Tree Counselling - Reduced Cost Counselling: An extensive list of lower-cost, sliding-scale and free counselling services in Metro Vancouver, primarily the city of Vancouver. Updated quarterly.
Remember, it's important to communicate openly with your therapist about their qualifications and your needs to ensure the best possible support. Navigating your options can feel exhausting sometimes, but your mental health journey is important, and there are affordable options available to help you along the way.
Please note that the inclusion of these resources does not imply endorsement or affiliation with Maeve Counselling.