Low Cost Counselling Program
We believe everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, regardless of financial circumstances. Our Low-Cost Counselling Program is a teaching program designed to provide affordable, accessible support to our community, while helping train the next generation of skilled therapists.
Operating on a pay-what-you-can model, we suggest a contribution of $50 per clinical hour. Whether you can pay the full amount, a portion, or nothing at all, you’re always welcome here. No one is turned away due to financial barriers.
How Does It work?
Our Low-Cost Counselling Program is delivered by skilled postgraduate interns who are in the final stages of their Master’s degrees, either through Yorkville University’s Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) or Acadia University’s Master of Education in Counselling.
While these interns are under close supervision, please note that supervisors do not attend sessions. However, they are available on-site and regularly review each intern’s cases through structured case consultations outside of client sessions. This process ensures our interns are applying current, evidence-based approaches while developing their clinical skills.
You can feel confident knowing our interns are supported by a strong framework of professional guidance as they work toward graduation and accreditation.
Pay What You Can
We offer a pay-what-you-can model for 50-minute sessions, with suggested of $50. Whatever feels manageable for you. No questions asked. Our priority is ensuring access to care without adding financial pressure. We can also direct bill Medavie Blue Cross depending on your plan’s coverage for intern counselling. For other providers, we’ll provide a receipt for reimbursement.
What Issues Can I Receive Support For?
This program is best suited for individuals experiencing mild to moderate challenges, including:
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Stress
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Life transitions
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Academic issues
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Family or relationship problems
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Trauma
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Grief and loss
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Anger
Our interns provide both in-person and virtual sessions, making the program accessible to teens & adults (16+) across Atlantic Canada.
Program Schedule & Availability — Fall 2025 Cohort
Our Low-Cost Counselling Program with the new cohort of interns will run from September to December 2025, with in-person sessions held on Mondays only.
The in-person session dates are:
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September 15 & 29
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October 6 & 20
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November 3 & 24
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December 8 & 15
We will have 4–5 appointment slots available on each of these days. Because availability is limited, we encourage you to apply early to secure your spot in the program.
FAQs
How do I apply or get started?
Simply click here and fill out our online self-referral form to get started. We’ll follow up with you within 1-2 business days! Simple as that!
I don’t need a sliding scale. Can I still access the Low Cost Counselling Program, or am I taking a spot from someone else who needs affordable counselling?
Not at all! This program is for everyone. If you’re able to pay the full rate or have insurance—great! You’re not taking away a spot from someone else. We understand how tough it can be to find a counsellor right now with long waitlists, and we’re here to support you, whatever your situation.
How often can I see my therapist?
Because our interns are only on-site part-time, availability is limited. For the Fall 2025 semester, we are currently offering in-person sessions every second Monday from September to December. If you're able to book consistently, you could have up to 8 in-person sessions during this timeframe. Depending on your intern's schedule and availability, there may also be flexibility to add virtual sessions between in-person visits.
Is my therapist a “real” therapist?
Yes! Our interns are fully competent counsellors completing their internships to meet their clinical requirements for graduation and licensing. They have extensive education, including undergraduate and master’s level studies—typically amounting to 6 to 8+ years of schooling, plus practical experience. While they are still completing these final steps to become fully licensed therapists, they work closely with experienced supervisors and faculty who guide their practice and ensure the quality and safety of your care. You can trust that you’re in capable hands with dedicated professionals committed to your well-being.
Is what I share confidential?
Yes. Your privacy is very important to us. All sessions are confidential, and any case reviews conducted with supervisors happen without using your name or any identifying details. Supervisors review cases to ensure the best care and guidance for the interns, but your personal information remains private. The only exceptions to confidentiality are situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or as required by law.
Can I continue counselling after the internship ends?
Our program is designed to provide care during the internship period. While it may be possible to continue with the same intern after their placement ends, we cannot guarantee this, as interns may move on to different employment or locations. If ongoing support is needed, we encourage you to discuss this with your intern during your sessions so that they can help with transition. We are also happy to help connect with other low cost options if needed.
How do you handle payment and fees? Can I receive sessions completely free of charge?
Our Low-Cost Counselling Program operates on a pay-what-you-can basis. On the intake form, you’ll be asked to indicate what you can comfortably pay for sessions, even if that means nothing at all. We trust your honesty and will never follow up with additional questions or requests about payment. No one is turned away due to financial barriers, so you can receive all your sessions free of charge if that's what you identify you need. Our goal is to make counselling accessible and reasonable for everyone.
To reserve your appointment, we do require a credit card on file. This helps reduce no-shows and keep the schedule running smoothly. Your card will never be billed without your permission; it is only held securely to confirm your booking. If this is an issue or you do not have a credit card, please contact us for support.