Ontario’s mental health system is genuinely difficult to navigate. OHIP covers some services, covers others partially, and leaves large gaps. Private therapy is expensive. But low-cost and free options exist that most people don’t know about. Here’s a clear guide.
What OHIP Covers
OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) covers mental health services delivered by physicians and psychiatrists — not psychologists or psychotherapists.
- Family doctor mental health visits: Covered. Your GP can provide basic counselling, prescribe medications, and refer you to other services.
- Psychiatrist visits: Covered, but require a GP referral and often have long wait times (6-18 months for non-emergency cases).
- NOT covered: Psychologists, Registered Social Workers (RSW), Registered Psychotherapists (RP). These are the most common types of therapists Ontarians see privately.
Private Therapy: What It Actually Costs
In the GTA, expect:
- Psychologist (PhD/PsyD): $200-$350/session
- Registered Social Worker: $130-$200/session
- Registered Psychotherapist: $120-$180/session
Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) with 6-10 free sessions per year. Check your workplace benefits before paying out of pocket. Extended health benefits through work often cover $500-$2,000/year in psychology.
Low-Cost and Free Options
Community Mental Health Centres
Ontario has community mental health agencies offering sliding-scale or free services based on income. Find ones near you at cmhao.ca (Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario) or by calling 211.
Open Minds, Open Doors
A province-wide initiative connecting people to mental health services. Call 1-866-531-2600.
Bounce Back Ontario
A free, guided self-help program for mild to moderate depression and anxiety, delivered via telephone coaching and workbooks. Referral from a GP required. bouncebackontario.ca
MindBeacon (formerly Inkblot)
Covered through OHIP for Ontario residents in some cases — online cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT). Check current coverage at mindbeacon.com.
University Training Clinics
Psychology training clinics at Ontario universities offer therapy by supervised graduate students at significantly reduced rates:
- University of Toronto Psychology Training Clinic
- Ryerson (TMU) Centre for Student Development and Counselling
- York University Counselling and Disability Services
Open Path Collective
Connects people with therapists offering $30-$80/session rates. openpathcollective.org
Crisis Resources
- 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988 (Canada-wide)
- Distress Centres of Greater Toronto: 416-408-4357
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
