07/23/2024
Wondering what's covered by who when it comes to Psychotherapy Support in Ontario? Here's the breakdown:
-Public funding includes provincial (OHIP), or municipal programs that help cover the costs of mental health care expenses. Typically, this is only an option at certain clinics, centers, or with certain providers that are publicly funded. Examples include hospitals, schools, publicly funded clinics, and publicly funded agencies.
-Private clinics are not covered by OHIP. However, publicly-funded facilities, as mentioned above, are OHIP-eligible. Before committing to any appointment, ensure you know your financial and coverage options.
-Many individuals in Ontario have access to psychotherapy coverage through their (or their spouse’s) employer-provided or privately purchased health insurance plans. These plans often include a certain number of sessions or a specific dollar amount allocated for mental health services per year.
-Another option is to pay for psychotherapy out of pocket, particularly for those without insurance coverage or who have exhausted their benefits. Therapists’ fees can vary depending on their qualifications, experience, and location, with hourly ranges from approximately $150 — $250 (please check with the clinic to confirm). You can ask your accountant if the therapy or program you are seeking is eligible for a Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) on your taxes.
-Some clinics also offer sliding-scale fees based on income or provide reduced rates for more junior therapists, making therapy more accessible for those with financial constraints.
