Finding a therapist in Vancouver

Coverage

Your extended benefits program through work might have benefits for therapy sessions, usually they have to be registered, so check with your program. For example, with Medavie Blue Cross I get $2000 towards sessions each year. We also have access to Modern Health, which is primarily online sessions, and I have heard through coworkers it is good, and has good therapists. So check with your employer, sometimes different types of therapists credentials are covered while some aren’t.

How to find a therapist

I am not a therapist, but have been through quite a few therapists over the past 18 years, so this is coming from a client/patient angle. I recommend:

• Figuring out exactly what you are looking for, and which type of therapy. If you don’t know that is ok, just make sure to ask the therapists for their recommendations when talking to them.
• Emailing or calling 5 different therapists or therapy centres.
• Arranging a 10-minute consultation with 3 different therapists.
• Choosing one you have the best rapport with.

I have read one of the most important things to have therapy work for you is working with someone you genuinely like and fit with.

Currently, I have seen 2 weeks - 3 month waitlists in Vancouver, so I recommend doing this as soon as you can, and before you are in a bad state to be proactive, and so it’s easier.

I also recommend asking someone for help finding you a therapist! Ask your partner, friend, or family member to help email, call and find places or do it together. You don’t have to do this alone ❤️

Recommended therapists and directories to use

The best way in Vancouver to find a private therapist is through Psychology Today:

Find Therapists and Psychologists in Vancouver, BC - Psychology Today

I do not recommend BetterHelp, I have heard numerous bad reviews and can be detrimental instead of helpful.

Therapy through MSP

If you don’t have the funds and want to go through MSP then I believe you have to go through your GP, and get a referral. This can take around a year. I will add more on this later, if you have been through this process and I can add it to this website, please contact me.

Next steps

Find a Psychiatrist in Vancouver: