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What mental health services are covered in Canada?
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Canadians can get mental health support from a range of different professionals — like psychiatrists, counsellors, psychologists and more. But not all services are covered by public health insurance.
Why aren’t all mental health options covered?
- Canada doesn’t have universal mental health care, although nearly eight out of 10 Canadians want it, according to a 2023 survey.
- More than one third of Canadians with mental health concerns don’t get help because of cost or because they didn’t know where to go.
What mental health services are free in Canada?
It depends where you live. Different provinces and territories have free services and helplines. Beyond that, here’s what’s free:
- Psychiatrists. As medical doctors, the services offered by psychiatrists are covered.
- Anything deemed “medically necessary.” This can include support from social workers and clinical counsellors provided though a government-funded hospital, clinic or agency or an employee assistance program.
- Mental health organizations. There are some community-based services and not-for-profit agencies, like peer support groups and the Canadian Mental Health Association.
- Programs for specific communities. For instance, First Nations and Inuit are covered for some mental health counselling.
If the mental health support you need is not covered by Canada’s public health insurance, you can look to private insurance, usually through an employer, to help with the bill. Otherwise, you have to cover the cost yourself.
What mental health services not covered?
- Private practice. Registered psychotherapists, social workers or psychologists who run their own practice charge per visit. Average cost ranges from $125 to $225, according to the Mental Health Commission of Canada.
- Medication. Right now, prescription drugs — including medication for mental health disorders — are not covered in Canada, although some provinces cover the cost for seniors.
- Dive deeper: Is health care free in Canada?
Let’s talk solutions
Here's what the experts are saying:
- Family doctors. If you have a family doctor, they can help you navigate which mental health programs are a fit for your needs and budget.
- Universal mental health care. Universal coverage for mental health care is part of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Countries like the U.K. and Australia have more expansive mental health coverage than what we have in Canada and could provide a roadmap.
Where’d we get this information?
- Data on mental disorders in Canada in 2022, according to Statistics Canada
- The Government of Canada’s list of mental health supports
- Helpful guides from CAMH and the Canadian Mental Health Association
