If you’re here, you’re probably wondering whether psychotherapy and counselling are covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
You can look no further! We wrote this article to provide you all the details and information you need to understand OHIP coverages.
Therapy Services Covered by OHIP
OHIP provides coverage for certain mental health services, depending on the professional credentials. Some mental health services are included under OHIP but others require private insurance or paying out of pocket.
Let’s look at what professionals are covered under OHIP.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are physicians who focus on diagnosing and providing mental health treatment. Psychiatrist services are fully covered by OHIP.
At Get Reconnected Psychotherapy Services, we’ve teamed up with Psychotherapy Matters, a platform that brings therapists and psychiatrists together to provide you with better support.
Book a Free Consultation with us if you are interested for more information on our collaboration with Psychotherapy Matters.
Family Doctors with Psychotherapy Training
There are some family physicians who received specialized training in psychotherapy. If your family doctor provides psychotherapy services, then the services would fall under OHIP coverage.
Check with your family doctor whether they are part of a Family Health Team (FHT). FHTs offer integrated mental health services, including psychotherapy and counselling.
Mental Health Support in Public Institutions
If you are seeking therapy and counselling services through a psychotherapist, psychologist or social worker in a public funded setting such as a hospital, school, or community health centers, then these services may be included under OHIP.
Mental health support in these programs typically focus on short-term treatment or targeted interventions for specific issues.
Therapy Services Not Covered by OHIP
Mental health professionals working in private practice (i.e., psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers) are not covered by OHIP.
If you are looking for support from these professionals, you will need to cover the cost out of pocket or rely on the insurance benefit plans from your employer.
Affordable Alternatives to Private Therapy
If you are struggling financially and do not have access to insurance benefits coverage, there are several affordable options available.
In Ontario, access to free or low-cost psychotherapy depends on several factors, including your location, income, and personal circumstances. If you’re looking for support, here are some options to consider:
- Workplace Support Programs: Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) as part of their benefits. These programs often provide free or reduced-cost counseling services for both employees and their families.
- Government Assistance Programs: Programs like the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) or Ontario Works may help cover psychotherapy costs for those who qualify. These options are designed to assist individuals facing financial or disability-related challenges.
- Community-Based Clinics: Free or low-cost mental health services may be available through community health centers, local hospitals, or outreach clinics. These resources often focus on providing accessible care to underserved populations.
Services and resources can differ greatly depending on where you live and the funding available in your region. It’s important to explore what’s offered in your local community to find the most suitable support.
The Affordable Therapy Program at Get Reconnected
Get Reconnected Psychotherapy Services offers an affordable therapy program, making quality therapy and counselling accessible to individuals across Ontario.
We offer rates as low as $25 per session offered by intern therapists. Our intern therapists have completed their 2-year Master Level Education and are currently enrolled in an 8-month practicum. Reach out to us for more information or to book a free 15-minute consultation.
Considerations When Choosing Therapy
When deciding on the type of therapy to pursue, consider these factors:
- Wait Times: Services covered by OHIP can have long waitlists, especially for psychiatrists or mental health support from public institution programs.
- Budget: There are different therapy options available, from affordable (low-cost) or sliding scales programs like our affordable therapy program that can help make it more manageable.
- Type of Support: Determine whether you need talk therapy, medication, or both. A consultation with a psychiatrist or family doctor can steer you in the right direction. We also offer psychiatrist consultations through our psychotherapy services.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your mental health is a priority, but the cost of therapy can sometimes feel like a barrier.
Don’t hesitate to explore your options or reach out for guidance—we’re here to help you take that first step.
