What are the different types of mental health services in Canada?

There are many mental health services in Canada and it can be hard to figure out which one is right for you. Here’s what’s available. 

What if you need immediate help?

• Emergency numbers. Beyond 9-1-1, if you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, you can call or text 9-8-8. 
• Crisis hotlines. Provinces and territories have a variety of free mental health hotlines. For example, the Alberta Mental Health Line is staffed by professionals 24/7 and connects callers with info and referrals. There are also resources specifically for youth, like Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868).
• Emergency room. If you are in crisis or pose a danger to yourself or others, you can get immediate help at the nearest hospital. Hospital staff can also help connect and refer you to additional, ongoing support. 

What services give ongoing support? 

• Group therapy. Whether you’re dealing with grief, addiction or other challenges, groups led by a mental health professional can provide a safe space to process. 
• One-on-one sessions. Psychologists, social workers and clinical counsellors use different techniques to help you talk it out. 
  • Dive deeper: What are the different medical health professionals? 
• Self-guided programs. For some people, apps and online programs, like the Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA's) BounceBack program, provide enough support, or they can be a good supplement to other services.   

What if you need medication?

In most of Canada, the only mental health professionals who can prescribe medication are physicians. 

• Family doctors can prescribe medication and offer referrals for other services like psychologists or psychiatrists. 
• Psychiatrists treat mental health disorders and can prescribe medications. 
• Some nurses: In some provinces, registered psychiatric nurses and nurse practitioners can prescribe drugs. 

What about services for specific communities? 

• Indigenous Peoples: There are multiple crisis lines and culturally safe supports specifically for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. 
• 2SLGBTQIA+: Several phone lines and community organizations provide support for queer individuals. There are also services to help find appropriate mental health professionals, such as these trans-friendly service providers. 
• Black Canadians: Tailored directories can help find a provider who works with Black families.