How to find the right therapist

Talking with a therapist can help you make sense of what is happening, cope with strong feelings and think through decisions without being pushed in one direction. But finding the right person can feel like one more overwhelming task.

This guide is meant to make that search a little simpler.

Regulated and unregulated professionals

In Canada, many mental health professions are regulated by a provincial or territorial college. A regulated professional must meet education and training standards, follow a code of ethics, and answer to a college if there is a complaint. Psychologists and social workers are regulated across the country. Psychiatrists are medical doctors. In some provinces, titles like psychotherapist or counselling therapist are also regulated.

Some titles, like coach or consultant, are generally not regulated, so anyone can use them. Coaches can be helpful for some goals, but they are not a substitute for mental health care when you are struggling.

You can usually check whether someone is registered by searching the public register of their provincial or territorial college.

Questions to ask before you book

Many therapists offer a short, free consultation call. You are allowed to ask questions and to speak with more than one person before choosing.

• Are you registered with a regulatory college, and which one?
• Do you have experience with infidelity, separation or relationship trauma?
• How do you usually work, and what might a session look like?
• Do you see individuals, couples or both?
• What are your fees, and do you offer a sliding scale?
• Do you offer sessions online, in person or by phone?
• How do you handle confidentiality, and when would you have to break it?

Notice how you feel

Many therapists see the relationship between you and your therapist as an important part of what helps. After a first session, ask yourself whether you felt heard, respected and not judged. It is fine if it takes a few sessions to know, and it is fine to try someone else if it does not feel right.

A good therapist will not tell you whether to stay or leave. They will help you understand what you want and need.

Cost and ways to manage it

Therapy with a psychiatrist is generally covered by provincial health plans, but often requires a referral and may involve a wait. Sessions with psychologists, social workers and counsellors in private practice are often not covered by public plans and can be expensive.

• Check whether you have extended health benefits through work or a partner's plan, and what professions they cover
• Ask about sliding scale fees based on income
• Look for community agencies, family service organizations or women's centres, which may offer low-cost or free counselling
• Check whether your workplace has an Employee and Family Assistance Program
• Some universities offer lower-cost sessions with supervised trainees

Finding someone through HER AGAIN

HER AGAIN has a directory of professionals at /find, where you can search for therapists, counsellors and other support. Each listing is verified, so you can spend less time checking credentials and more time finding someone who feels like the right fit. It is still worth asking your own questions before booking.