Frequently asked questions.
Is therapy covered by OHIP?
Unfortunately, OHIP doesn’t cover most therapy and counselling services in Ontario unless you’re seeing a psychiatrist, family doctor, or accessing therapy through a Family Health Team. Many people don’t have access to these supports, and family doctors typically don’t provide ongoing counselling.
The good news is that many extended health insurance plans (through work, school, or private benefits) cover counselling services. Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) are also available for Indigenous folks.
At Access Therapy, we understand that cost can be a barrier. That’s why we offer sliding scale counselling, affordable therapy with supervised interns, and pay-what-you-can spots. If finances are a concern, please reach out — together, we can explore options that make therapy accessible for you.
How much does therapy cost at Access Therapy?
Our therapy fees range from $85–$200 per session, depending on the therapist’s experience and specialization.
Affordable therapy ($85/session): Offered by Masters-level counselling interns under the supervision of our clinical lead. This is a fantastic option for folks looking for quality therapy at a lower cost.
Registered therapists ($150–$200/session): Experienced therapists who can support more complex concerns such as trauma, abuse, or severe mental health struggles. Most also offer sliding scale options with limited spots.
Pay-What-You-Can slots: Each therapist reserves one spot for folks on OW, ODSP, or with significant financial barriers.
We believe therapy should be accessible, and we’ll work with you to find an option that feels sustainable.
Do you offer in-person therapy in Hamilton?
Yes! Our in-person counselling sessions take place at 205–151 York Blvd in Hamilton, near the newly renovated TD Coliseum (formerly FirstOntario Centre). Many clients appreciate the connection that comes with being face-to-face.
We also offer virtual therapy for anyone across Ontario. You can even switch between in-person and virtual sessions depending on what feels best for you. Flexibility is part of how we make therapy fit into your life.
Is virtual therapy effective?
Absolutely. Research shows that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship issues. Virtual therapy also offers the benefit of comfort, flexibility, and no commute.
Some considerations include:
Access to reliable internet and a private space
Comfort using a phone, tablet, or computer for sessions
At Access Therapy, you can choose in-person or virtual therapy (or switch between them) depending on what feels most supportive.
How often do I need to come to therapy?
The most common frequency is every 2 weeks. This gives you time to let each session settle in and for you to practice skills, notice changes or identify new challenges. Some folks like to come more often as a way to bolster their support and hit-the-ground-running (so to speak) in therapy.
Your therapist will offer their insight into what feels like the best option for you, but ultimately, you decide what works for you in your life.
Is it true that I might feel worse before I feel better?
Sometimes this is true.
For some folks talking about the issues that bring them into therapy feels freeing and validating, these folks might feel better right away and not experience a drop in their mood.
But, for other folks, opening up about things you’ve been avoiding and the challenging parts of life can feel heavy. Your therapist is there to help you through this entire process, especially the effects of therapy. We encourage you to share this experience with your therapist, that’s what they are there for.
You don’t have to do this alone.