Free and Low-Cost Counselling
Phone Support During Covid-19 - Moving Forward Family Services
Moving Forward Family Services (MFFS) provides low barrier counselling and support services throughout BC and across Canada. MFFS seeks to make counselling accessible to all residents of the province, regardless of age, presenting issue or geographical location.
We currently have approximately 125 practicum interns - students seeking designations in clinical counselling or clinical social work from accredited institutions - and 10 counselling supervisors.
We offer free services, low fee services and services offered at a reduced fee rate with clinical counsellors (our graduates who valued our model and remained to offer fee-based services lower than traditional rates, with the caveat that such fees are for those with low income and/or have no insurance coverage. We have approximately 50 clinical counsellors on our private therapist roster) - so in total we have a team of nearly 200 counsellors, social workers and supervisors. We discovered that often client motivation was low when service was entirely free (and there tend to be many missed appointments) so have a policy that the first 4 counselling sessions are free for anyone without income, with possibility of extension (this approach has greatly reduced missed appointments) however no one will ever be turned away based on their financial circumstances.
In addition to general counselling, we also offer free one-to-one CBT coaching, one-to-one Healthy Relationships coaching and several groups (current online groups include an arts-based therapy group, a trauma and the body group, a women's group, a men's group in Punjabi, a women's group in Punjabi and a women's group in Farsi).
While we are not a great fit for everyone (some clients prefer more experienced therapists), our quick follow up and low barrier services in multiple languages seem to have made an impact on many lives.
Anyone wanting these services can call and leave a message, requesting "Support during Covid-19," at 778-321-3054 or by email at
counsellor@movingforwardfamilyservices.com
Note: these are counselling/support sessions, and are not intended for clients who are in crisis. Clients in crisis should continue to contact Crisis Centres.
We currently have approximately 125 practicum interns - students seeking designations in clinical counselling or clinical social work from accredited institutions - and 10 counselling supervisors.
We offer free services, low fee services and services offered at a reduced fee rate with clinical counsellors (our graduates who valued our model and remained to offer fee-based services lower than traditional rates, with the caveat that such fees are for those with low income and/or have no insurance coverage. We have approximately 50 clinical counsellors on our private therapist roster) - so in total we have a team of nearly 200 counsellors, social workers and supervisors. We discovered that often client motivation was low when service was entirely free (and there tend to be many missed appointments) so have a policy that the first 4 counselling sessions are free for anyone without income, with possibility of extension (this approach has greatly reduced missed appointments) however no one will ever be turned away based on their financial circumstances.
In addition to general counselling, we also offer free one-to-one CBT coaching, one-to-one Healthy Relationships coaching and several groups (current online groups include an arts-based therapy group, a trauma and the body group, a women's group, a men's group in Punjabi, a women's group in Punjabi and a women's group in Farsi).
While we are not a great fit for everyone (some clients prefer more experienced therapists), our quick follow up and low barrier services in multiple languages seem to have made an impact on many lives.
Anyone wanting these services can call and leave a message, requesting "Support during Covid-19," at 778-321-3054 or by email at
counsellor@movingforwardfamilyservices.com
Note: these are counselling/support sessions, and are not intended for clients who are in crisis. Clients in crisis should continue to contact Crisis Centres.
Free Mental Health Support During Covid-19*
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UPDATE:
Note that currently this counselling service is currently at capacity. We will update this once the service is again available for bookings. The BC Covid-19 Mental Health Network is a group of counselling professionals located throughout British Columbia who joined together to offer free mental health support as the Covid-19 pandemic began to unfold in Canada. In particular, we felt compelled to address the needs of people coping with sudden and increased levels of distress and who may not currently have the financial means to pay for counselling support.
As we developed this initiative, we aimed to create a platform where volunteer counsellors could connect with BC residents struggling with the myriad effects of the Covid-19 outbreak on their lives. The email account bccovidtherapists@gmail.com serves as the first point of contact between the public and the volunteer counsellors. We collectively established that any counsellor volunteering with the initiative must be a registered member in good standing with a professional association and have applicable professional liability insurance in place. Our hope is that with a little extra support and connection we can help mitigate some of the adverse mental health effects that some people may currently be experiencing. |
Wellness Together Canada: Free Live Mental Health + Substance Use Support
Free Counselling with #WIRTHStayingIn Initiative
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Supporting our Mental Health during COVID – #WIRTHStayingIn Initiative
Offering free online counselling for those who need and can’t afford it. If you’re an individual who needs support but can’t afford counselling, please get in touch with WIRTH and we will do our best to support you with one month of free online counselling. Simply visit wirthhats.com/counsellingprogram |
Free Counselling - Women's Health Collective
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Free Counselling for self-identified women
Counselling is a therapeutic relationship between a qualified counsellor and the client. Counselling offers an objectice perspective, thus enabling the client to gain insights and strategies to assist in managing their particular situation. During Covid-19, most counselling is taking place virtually. We can help you through a broad range of of issues including: - Identity issues - Lack of Motivation - Life events and transitions - Self-esteem - Stress Management - Childhood trauma - Sexual/emotional/physical abuse - Suicidal thoughts - Anger Management - Anxiety and panic - Body image/disorder eating - Depression - Family or relationship issues - Grief and loss Call to book an appointment: 604-736-5262 |
Phone/Zoom Counselling with Kits Neighbourhood House
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Free counselling is available, by phone or Zoom, to all who are members of Kits Neighbourhood House, and that membership for an individual is $10 for a year.
Counselling appointments can be in English, Farsi, Spanish or Hindi. Counselling sessions are available Fridays from 9am – 5pm. For more information contact: Patricia 604.736.3588 ext. 128 counselling@kitshouse.org |
Free Counselling in East Vancouver
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Where: 920 East Hastings
When: Every Monday, 5pm - 6pm Cost: Free Reach Community Health Clinic offers a FREE drop-in counselling support group. It is held at Ray-Cam Cooperative Centre on East Hastings in the Senior’s Centre. It’s a process-oriented group, that sometimes involves music and mindfulness. No registration required. Call for more info: 604-257-6949 |
Free Counselling in South Vancouver
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When:
Mondays at 9:30am to 6:30pm Thursdays at 2:00pm to 9:00pm Where: South Vancouver Neighbourhood House 6470 Victoria Drive at 49th Cost: Free Free counselling services for individuals, couples, or families struggling with challenges in relationships, parenting, stress, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, change and transition, or substance use. Contact Email counselling@southvan.org |
Free Counselling in the West End
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The free community counselling centre provides free counselling service to help people cope with loneliness and stress caused by different life circumstances.
This service is provided by a university intern Counsellor that works under the supervision of a registered clinical counsellor. During the Covid-19 pandemic, this counselling is available via Zoom. Please email counselling@gordonhouse.org to make an appointment Location: Gordon Neighbourhood House (1019 Broughton Street). |
Low-Cost Counselling
Perhaps free counselling isn't available as quickly as you would like...here are low-cost counselling options.
Sliding-Scale Counselling
Low-Cost Counselling
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Stewart & Associates is proud to offer affordable low-cost counselling and free counselling options to adult individuals and couples with little or no income. This ensures that everyone who wants it, has access to therapy. Low-cost counselling fees start as little as $30 per session. We offer in-person sessions (except when mandatory social distancing protocols are in place) as well as telephone and video counselling options. Effective low-cost counselling is provided by our Masters Level Interns. Limited free counselling, by our Interns, is also available during exceptional circumstances.
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More Free and Low-Cost Counselling Options
Updated July 2021 by Willow Tree Counselling - willowtreecounselling.ca
Note that many programs will have wait lists. You may wish to add yourself to several waiting lists to potentially increase the speed of you being able to access counselling.
General Counselling
Oak Counselling
604-266-5611
Reduced fee. Secular counselling services provided at the Vancouver Unitarian Centre by
supervised volunteers with Master’s degrees in psychology or psychology-related fields.
Individual and couples counselling. Check to see if waiting list is open.
Jewish Family Services Association - 604-558-5726
http://jfsa.ca/counselling/
Therapy services to youth, adults, seniors, couples, and families. Fee for a Registered Clinical
Counsellor ranges from $30-110 and is based upon client income from their Notice of
Assessment. Free counselling is offered by supervised intern students.
Family Services of Greater Vancouver, Student Internship Counselling Program
604-874-2938
https://fsgv.ca/programs/counselling/
Counselling provided by supervised counselling interns, September to April only. No fee. Offices in Vancouver, Richmond and New West.
Adler Centre - Counselling Clinic - 604-742-1818
http://www.adlercentre.ca/clinic.html
Subsidized individual and couples counselling. Counselling provided by counselling
psychology graduate students at the Adler Centre, supervised by an experienced
clinician. $60-$85 to see a counselling intern; $100-$110 with registered counsellor.
Scarfe Counselling - UBC - 604-827-1523
http://ecps.educ.ubc.ca/counselling-centres/scarfe-free-counselling-clinic/
Free for adults and children 10+. Counselling provided by counselling psychology graduate
students, supervised by a psychologist. Clinic runs from September to April.
UBC Psychology Clinic - 604-822-3005
http://clinic.psych.ubc.ca/
Counselling services provided by doctoral student interns, supervised by registered
psychologists, serving youth and adults. $10-$40 per hour.
Simon Fraser University - Counselling Clinic
Burnaby Clinical Psychology Centre- 778-782-4720
https://www.sfu.ca/psychology/clinicalpsychology-centre.html
Counselling for adults, children and youth provided by supervised graduate students in
counselling psychology. Services at the Surrey clinic are free and at the Burnaby clinic are
offered on a sliding scale.
Living Systems Counselling - 604-926-5496
https://livingsystems.ca/counselling/services-and-fees/
Individual, couple and family counselling using Bowen Family Systems Therapy. Lower-cost
counselling provided by supervised interns ($15-$65) at some branches only.
Moving Forward Family Services - 778-321-3054
https://movingforwardfamilyservices.com
Counselling for individuals and families. Counselling primarily offered in Surrey, with limited
availability in Vancouver, Port Moody and Abbotsford. Graduate-level counsellors ($50-$65) andcounselling interns ($20). Limited free counselling available in exceptional circumstances.
Gordon Neighbourhood House - 604-683-2554 or counselling@gordonhouse.org
https://gordonhouse.org/programs/free-counselling/
Free short term virtual counselling for community members, provided by registered clinical
counsellors. Individuals, couples and groups. Downtown Vancouver.
South Vancouver Neighbourhood House, Counselling Services counselling@southvan.org
http://www.southvan.org/program_category/community-programs/
Free program offered twice a week by counselling interns from City University. Individuals,
couples and families.
Little Mountain Neighbourhood House - Counselling and Art Therapy Programs
604-879-7104 (Ask for Lynette)
https://web2.lmnhs.bc.ca/counselling-and-art-therapy/
Counselling provided by counselling interns, by appointment only. Building is accessible.
Kitsilano Neighbourhood House - Counselling Sessions - 604-736-3588 ext.128 or
counselling@kitshouse.org
http://www.kitshouse.org/counselling-sessions/
Counselling by phone or Zoom, in partnership with Moving Forward Family Services and City University; provided by counselling interns.$10/session suggested donation.
Vancouver Women’s Health Collective - Wellness Counselling - 604-736-5262
https://womenshealthcollective.ca/counselling/
Counselling and art therapy available on select days.
Living Through Loss Counselling Society of BC - 604-873-5013
https://livingthroughloss.ca/counselling/
Professional grief counselling related to life change or loss. Group therapy also available. Small fund available for limited, subsidized counselling. Call to inquire.
LGBTQ+
Heath Initiative for Men (HIM) - 604-488-1001 ext. 230
https://checkhimout.ca/gay-mens-health/mental-health/counselling-support/
Brief professional counselling (8 sessions) is available to gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men either by donation equivalent to hourly wage. Vancouver, New Westminster, Surrey, Abbotsford.
Qmunity - Counselling Program - 604-684-5307 ext.107
https://qmunity.ca/get-support/counselling/
Counselling for members of the LGBTQ+ communities provided by Registered Social Workers and Clinical Counsellors. $60-$140 a session. Daytime only. 10-session limit.
Catherine White Holman Wellness Centre - 604-442-4352
https://cwhwc.com/services/
Drop-in professional counselling for trans and gender-diverse people. Call to find out when the next counselling clinic is being held.
Mosaic - I Belong Program - 236-991-0107 or ibelong@mosaicbc.org
https://www.mosaicbc.org/services/settlement/lgbtq/
Support groups for LGBTQIA+ refugees and immigrants. Groups available online during Covid.
Trauma
Specialized Counselling & Trauma Services - Family Services of Greater Vancouver -
604-874-2938
https://fsgv.ca/programs/counselling/
Professional counselling for women, children, survivors of incest/trauma/sexual abuse, pregnant women with a trauma history and those experiencing family violence. No fee, however may require a referral from a social worker.
VAST - 604-255-1881 or Toll Free: 1-866-393-3133
https://vast-vancouver.ca/our-services/
Trauma-focused psychological counselling for refugees in one-on-one and group settings.
Services provided in over a dozen languages.
Residential Historical Abuse Program - 604-875-4255
https://vch.eduhealth.ca/PDFs/CE/CE.851.S49.pdf
Free counselling for those who were sexually abused while under the care of the province
(foster care, group homes, etc.)
Crime Victims Assistance Program - Victim Link BC 1-800-563-0808 (available 24/7)
http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/justice/criminal-justice/bcs-criminal-justice-system/if-you-area-victim-of-a-crime/victim-of-crime/financial-assistance-benefits
Funded counselling for victims of crime, their immediate family members and witnesses.
Contact for eligibility.
BC Society for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse - 604-682-6482
https://bc-malesurvivors.com/for-survivors/funding-your-therapy/
Registered clinical counsellors (RCCs) provide individual and group counselling for male
survivors of sexual abuse. RCC fee: $100 for individual counselling. Group counselling: $40 per week. Reduced cost counselling provided by practicum students at $45/hr. Victim services workers on staff to help apply for funding for those who qualify.
Battered Women’s Support Services - 604-687-1867
https://www.bwss.org/support/programs/counselling/
Counselling and support services for any woman who has been abused in an intimate
relationship as well as women survivors of childhood sexual abuse, adult sexual assault and
Indigenous residential school survivors.
WAVAW Rape Crisis Centre - 604-255-6228
https://www.wavaw.ca/counselling/
Individual counselling and group support for cis and trans women, two-spirit, trans and/or nonbinary people who have experienced sexual assault
MMIWG2S Family Counselling Program-WAVAW Rape Crisis Centre 604-255-6344
http://www.wavaw.ca/mmiw-family-counselling/
Free counselling for family members of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and
two-spirit people. Family members includes extended families, community families and selfidentified family members.
Atira Community Services Society - Stopping The Violence Counselling
604-331-1407 ext. 106 or 107
https://atira.bc.ca/what-we-do/program/stopping-the-violence-counselling/
Free individual and group counselling for women and transwomen who have experienced
relationship abuse, sexual assault, or physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
BIPOC
First Nations Health Authority - 1-800-317-7878 (Toll Free)
http://www.fnha.ca/benefits/mental-health
Mental health provider list: http://www.fnha.ca/Documents/FNHA-First-Nations-Health-Benefits-Mental-Health-Provider-List.pdf
Provides coverage to access mental health providers, including counsellors, social workers, and psychologists. FNHB covers three mental health programs: Short-Term Crisis Intervention, Indian Residential School Resolution Health Support Program, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls - Health Support Services.
Metro Vancouver Indigenous Counselling
https://mvic.ca/mental-health-and-wellness-program/
Free professional counselling for Indigenous individuals across BC, registered with the First
Nations Health Authority. Waitlist form: https://mvic.ca/indigenous-counselling-application/
Vancouver Black Therapy and Advocacy Foundation
https://vancouverblacktherapyfoundation.com/sanctuary
Non-profit organization linking Black community members with accredited Black local
counsellors in Metro Vancouver. Priority for Black, disabled and LGBTQIA+ folks.
Indigenous Counselling Program - WAVAW Rape Crisis Centre - 604-255-6344
https://www.wavaw.ca/indigenous-counselling/
Free one-to-one counselling for Indigenous including trans and cis women, as well as trans,
non-binary, and Two Spirit people, incorporating Aboriginal healing approaches and traditions based on the Medicine Wheel.
Addictions
Addictions Services, Vancouver Coastal Health - 604-675-3710
http://www.vch.ca/your-care/mental-health-substance-use/substance-use-services
Substance use assessment, counselling and treatment planning for individuals, couples and
families. Group counselling also available. Free.
BC Responsible and Problem Gambling Program - 1-888-795-6111 (available 24/7)
https://www.bcresponsiblegambling.ca/getting-help/find-counsellor
Free professional, multilingual counselling for any British Columbian struggling with their own or their family member’s gambling. Counsellors have a minimum of a Master’s degree in a counselling-related discipline.
Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of BC - 604-628-1134
Drug and Alcohol Outpatient Services - 520 Richards St. Vancouver
https://nccabc.ca/health/alcohol-drug-outpatient-services/
Walk in or call to set up an appointment. One-to-one adult, youth, family and group counselling for Indigenous people, part of an intensive outpatient treatment program.
Mental Health
Vancouver Coastal Mental Health - Vancouver Hospital - 604-675-3710
http://www.vch.ca/your-care/mental-health-substance-use/mental-health-outpatient-services
Group therapy for depression, anxiety, stress. Individual mental health assessments. Referral through your family doctor, or via a walk-in clinic.
SAFER - Vancouver Coastal Health - 604-675-3700
http://www.vch.ca/Pages/Suicide-Attempt-Follow-up,-Education---Research-SAFER.aspx?res_id=474
For Vancouver residents, provides counselling for individuals age 19 and over who have made a suicide attempt, are currently suicidal, or have suicidal thoughts; also offers support and education for people who are concerned about the risk of suicide in a significant other or bereaved by a suicide death.
Kelty’s Key Online Therapy - Vancouver Coastal Health - 604-675-3700
https://www.keltyskey.com/
Free, cognitive-behavioural online therapy for qualifying Vancouver residents. Registered online clients are assigned an online psychotherapist for time-limited sessions. The general public may also access the online courses in a self-help capacity (without therapist assistance).
Bounce Back Program - Canadian Mental Health Association - 1-866-639-0522
http://www.cmha.bc.ca/programs-services/bounce-back/
Telephone coaching for people with mild-moderate depression with or without accompanying anxiety. Coaching available in English, Cantonese, French and Punjabi. Family doctor’s referral
required to access this program. Free.
Mood Disorders Association of BC - 604-873-0103 ext. 2
Counselling and Wellness Centre
http://www.mdabc.net/counselling-and-wellness-centre-mdabc
Individual therapy with certified counsellor ($85-$95 an hour) or intern ($50 hour). Group
therapy also available.
Multilingual
SUCCESS - Individual and Family Counselling - 604-408-7266 or 604-684-1628
https://successbc.ca/counselling-crisis-support/services/counselling/
Counselling offered in Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Farsi and English with a focus on helping new immigrants of Chinese and other ethnic origins. Play and art therapy also available. Fees charged on a sliding scale based on income.
MOSAIC - Stopping The Violence Family Counselling - 604-254-9626 (Ask for the Stopping
the Violence Counsellor and/or the Women’s Support Worker).
https://www.mosaicbc.org/services/counselling/stopping-the-violence/
Free, confidential counselling support and multicultural outreach services for women who have experienced, or are at risk of, abuse, threats, or violence in an intimate relationship, sexual assault or childhood abuse. 1:1 counselling and group support. Services available in English, Punjabi and Hindi.
MOSAIC - Vietnamese Family Support Program -
604-254-9626 ext.1030 (Ask for the Vietnamese Family Support Program).
https://www.mosaicbc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/T56770Vietnamese_VFC_June06_Web.pdf
One-on-one or family support and counselling for a variety of life issues. Services available in Vietnamese and English.
Vancouver and Lower Mainland Multicultural Family Support Services Society
Multicultural Outreach/ Stopping the Violence Program - 604-436-1025
https://www.vlmfss.ca/multicultural-outreach
Individual counselling, group counselling, advocacy, crisis intervention and referrals for women experiencing any form of abuse or violence, provided in numerous languages.
Youth
Urban Native Youth Association (UNYA) - Counselling Program
604-253-5885 or link.counsellor@unya.bc.ca (intake counsellor works on Mondays)
https://unya.bc.ca/programs/alcohol-drug-counsellors/
Free individual and group clinical counselling for Indigenous youth, ages 13-24.
Or contact the Wellness Centre for drop-in counselling hours: https://unya.bc.ca/programs/native-youth-health-wellness-centre/
Dan’s Legacy - Therapeutic Counselling Program
tom@danslegacy.com
https://www.danslegacy.com/help/
Counselling for youth ages 15-25 who have experienced abuse or are affected by substance use. Family counselling also available. Bursaries available for those unable to afford therapy.
Drop-In Counselling Program - The Foundry - 1-833-308-6379
https://foundrybc.ca/virtual/drop-in-counselling/
Single-session virtual counselling for youth ages 12-24 and their caregivers. Counselling by
voice, video or chat.
Trauma Counselling for Children Affected by Family Violence (PEACE) - 604-436-1025
Vancouver and Lower Mainland Multicultural Family Support Services Society
https://www.vlmfss.ca/childrens-programs
Counselling available for children ages 3-18 who have been exposed to domestic violence.
Kids Help Phone - 24/7 - In English or French
1-800-668-6868 - to talk to a professional counsellor
https://kidshelpphone.ca/ (to start live chat) or access online resources
text CONNECT to 686868 for crisis text support - https://kidshelpphone.ca/text/
Phone, text or live chat. Anonymous and confidential. No need to give your name.
Health-Related
Callanish Society - 604-732-0633
https://www.callanish.org/ongoing-programs
Counselling for adults and youth affected by cancer at any stage, and for their family members.
Counselling also available for family members grieving the loss of a loved one from cancer.
Sliding scale rate ranging from $50 to $150 / session.
Friends For Life - 604-682-5992
https://www.vancouverfriendsforlife.ca/copy-of-services-2
Free counselling for residents of Vancouver City Centre facing life challenges associated with HIV, cancer, hepatitis C and other chronic illnesses
Adapt Clinic - Genetic Counselling Program - BC Women’s Hospital
Contact: Angela Inglis: 604-875-2726 or Emily Morris: 604-875-2000 ext. 6787
http://www.bcmhsus.ca/our-services/genetic-counselling-(the-adapt-clinic)
Free 1:1 counselling for anyone of any age who has a diagnosis of a mental health or
psychiatric disorder, or for anyone with a family history of mental health issues, seeking to better understand potential risks associated with the mental health condition as well as strategies for protecting future mental health.
Chuck Jung Associates Psychological & Counselling Services* - 604-874-6574
https://www.chuckjung.com/pro-bono-counselling-tbi/
No-cost counselling for individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and their family members, delivered at Port Coquitlam and Burnaby offices by supervised psychology doctoral students.
*While not a non-profit organization, availability of counselling services in the community for people affected by TBIs is extremely limited, hence inclusion on this list
Extended Health Benefits
If you have extended health through your employer, check with HR or your insurance plan to see whether your employer has paid-for counselling benefits. Sometimes this is a separate, contracted service (Employee Assistance Program), other times you are covered for a particular counselling professional such as a Registered Social Worker (RSW or RCSW), Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) or a Registered Psychologist (R.Psych), whom you would hire privately. Be clear on who you’re covered for if reimbursement is important to you! Most of the time, in such arrangements, you pay the therapist first and he or she gives you a receipt for reimbursement through your extended health. Check out the following article: https://willowtreecounselling.ca/articles/am-i-covered-understanding-your-counsellingoptions/
Crisis Services and Hotlines in Vancouver - July 2021
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911.
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• Access and Assessment Centre (AAC) - 604-675-3700 Non-life-threatening mental health
or addictions concerns - 7:30am-11pm, 7 days a week. Phone, drop-in and outreach support available for Vancouver residents. - Segal Centre, VGH - 803 W. 12th Ave. Vancouver
http://www.vch.ca/your-care/mental-health-substance-use/vancouver-access-assessment-centre
• 1-800-SUICIDE, BC-wide, 24/7.
• Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre of BC - 24/7: Phone 604-872-3311
(Vancouver) or 1-866-661-3311 (toll free); Chat (noon-1am): https://crisiscentrechat.ca/ or
youth chat: https://youthinbc.com/ (noon-1am)
• Health Link BC - Nurse Line - 24/7 - Phone: 8-1-1 or 7-1-1 (hearing impaired)
• First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line and On-line Counselling
Toll Free: 1-855-242-3310 Chat Line: www.hopeforwellness.ca
Immediate counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous people across the country.
• KUU-US Indigenous Crisis Line (24/7) Toll Free: 1- 800-588-8717
Adult/Elder: 250-723-4050 Child/Youth: 250-723-2040
• National Residential School Crisis Line (former residential school students) 24/7 –
1-866-952-4419
• WAVAW 24-7 Rape Crisis Line - 604-255-6344 or Toll-Free: 1-877-392-7583
• Kids Help Phone - 24/7 - 1-800-668-6868 or Text CONNECT to 686868
• Youth Against Violence Line - 24/7: 1-800-680-4264 or Text: 604-836-6381
TTY: 604-875-0885. Help for youth in danger or being threatened.
Anonymous. No call display. Multilingual. Concerned caregivers can also call for help.
• Chinese Help Lines - 604-270-8233 (Cantonese) 604-270-8222 (Mandarin) -10am-10pm
• Trans Lifeline - Toll Free in Canada: 1-877-330-6366 - https://translifeline.org/
Peer support hotline run by and for trans people. 7am-1am Pacific Time.
• Critical Incident Response - WorkSafe BC - 1-888-922-3700 (9am-11pm, 7 days wk)
For workers who have witnessed a traumatic incident in the workplace. Free.
• Gambling Support Line (24/7) – 1-888-795-6111
• Seniors Abuse and Information Line - 604-437-1940 / Toll-Free: 1-866-437-1940
TTY: 604-428-3359 or TTY toll-free 1-855-306-1443.
Weekdays 8am-8pm; Weekends 10am to 5:30pm, excluding statutory holidays.
Note that many programs will have wait lists. You may wish to add yourself to several waiting lists to potentially increase the speed of you being able to access counselling.
General Counselling
Oak Counselling
604-266-5611
Reduced fee. Secular counselling services provided at the Vancouver Unitarian Centre by
supervised volunteers with Master’s degrees in psychology or psychology-related fields.
Individual and couples counselling. Check to see if waiting list is open.
Jewish Family Services Association - 604-558-5726
http://jfsa.ca/counselling/
Therapy services to youth, adults, seniors, couples, and families. Fee for a Registered Clinical
Counsellor ranges from $30-110 and is based upon client income from their Notice of
Assessment. Free counselling is offered by supervised intern students.
Family Services of Greater Vancouver, Student Internship Counselling Program
604-874-2938
https://fsgv.ca/programs/counselling/
Counselling provided by supervised counselling interns, September to April only. No fee. Offices in Vancouver, Richmond and New West.
Adler Centre - Counselling Clinic - 604-742-1818
http://www.adlercentre.ca/clinic.html
Subsidized individual and couples counselling. Counselling provided by counselling
psychology graduate students at the Adler Centre, supervised by an experienced
clinician. $60-$85 to see a counselling intern; $100-$110 with registered counsellor.
Scarfe Counselling - UBC - 604-827-1523
http://ecps.educ.ubc.ca/counselling-centres/scarfe-free-counselling-clinic/
Free for adults and children 10+. Counselling provided by counselling psychology graduate
students, supervised by a psychologist. Clinic runs from September to April.
UBC Psychology Clinic - 604-822-3005
http://clinic.psych.ubc.ca/
Counselling services provided by doctoral student interns, supervised by registered
psychologists, serving youth and adults. $10-$40 per hour.
Simon Fraser University - Counselling Clinic
Burnaby Clinical Psychology Centre- 778-782-4720
https://www.sfu.ca/psychology/clinicalpsychology-centre.html
Counselling for adults, children and youth provided by supervised graduate students in
counselling psychology. Services at the Surrey clinic are free and at the Burnaby clinic are
offered on a sliding scale.
Living Systems Counselling - 604-926-5496
https://livingsystems.ca/counselling/services-and-fees/
Individual, couple and family counselling using Bowen Family Systems Therapy. Lower-cost
counselling provided by supervised interns ($15-$65) at some branches only.
Moving Forward Family Services - 778-321-3054
https://movingforwardfamilyservices.com
Counselling for individuals and families. Counselling primarily offered in Surrey, with limited
availability in Vancouver, Port Moody and Abbotsford. Graduate-level counsellors ($50-$65) andcounselling interns ($20). Limited free counselling available in exceptional circumstances.
Gordon Neighbourhood House - 604-683-2554 or counselling@gordonhouse.org
https://gordonhouse.org/programs/free-counselling/
Free short term virtual counselling for community members, provided by registered clinical
counsellors. Individuals, couples and groups. Downtown Vancouver.
South Vancouver Neighbourhood House, Counselling Services counselling@southvan.org
http://www.southvan.org/program_category/community-programs/
Free program offered twice a week by counselling interns from City University. Individuals,
couples and families.
Little Mountain Neighbourhood House - Counselling and Art Therapy Programs
604-879-7104 (Ask for Lynette)
https://web2.lmnhs.bc.ca/counselling-and-art-therapy/
Counselling provided by counselling interns, by appointment only. Building is accessible.
Kitsilano Neighbourhood House - Counselling Sessions - 604-736-3588 ext.128 or
counselling@kitshouse.org
http://www.kitshouse.org/counselling-sessions/
Counselling by phone or Zoom, in partnership with Moving Forward Family Services and City University; provided by counselling interns.$10/session suggested donation.
Vancouver Women’s Health Collective - Wellness Counselling - 604-736-5262
https://womenshealthcollective.ca/counselling/
Counselling and art therapy available on select days.
Living Through Loss Counselling Society of BC - 604-873-5013
https://livingthroughloss.ca/counselling/
Professional grief counselling related to life change or loss. Group therapy also available. Small fund available for limited, subsidized counselling. Call to inquire.
LGBTQ+
Heath Initiative for Men (HIM) - 604-488-1001 ext. 230
https://checkhimout.ca/gay-mens-health/mental-health/counselling-support/
Brief professional counselling (8 sessions) is available to gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men either by donation equivalent to hourly wage. Vancouver, New Westminster, Surrey, Abbotsford.
Qmunity - Counselling Program - 604-684-5307 ext.107
https://qmunity.ca/get-support/counselling/
Counselling for members of the LGBTQ+ communities provided by Registered Social Workers and Clinical Counsellors. $60-$140 a session. Daytime only. 10-session limit.
Catherine White Holman Wellness Centre - 604-442-4352
https://cwhwc.com/services/
Drop-in professional counselling for trans and gender-diverse people. Call to find out when the next counselling clinic is being held.
Mosaic - I Belong Program - 236-991-0107 or ibelong@mosaicbc.org
https://www.mosaicbc.org/services/settlement/lgbtq/
Support groups for LGBTQIA+ refugees and immigrants. Groups available online during Covid.
Trauma
Specialized Counselling & Trauma Services - Family Services of Greater Vancouver -
604-874-2938
https://fsgv.ca/programs/counselling/
Professional counselling for women, children, survivors of incest/trauma/sexual abuse, pregnant women with a trauma history and those experiencing family violence. No fee, however may require a referral from a social worker.
VAST - 604-255-1881 or Toll Free: 1-866-393-3133
https://vast-vancouver.ca/our-services/
Trauma-focused psychological counselling for refugees in one-on-one and group settings.
Services provided in over a dozen languages.
Residential Historical Abuse Program - 604-875-4255
https://vch.eduhealth.ca/PDFs/CE/CE.851.S49.pdf
Free counselling for those who were sexually abused while under the care of the province
(foster care, group homes, etc.)
Crime Victims Assistance Program - Victim Link BC 1-800-563-0808 (available 24/7)
http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/justice/criminal-justice/bcs-criminal-justice-system/if-you-area-victim-of-a-crime/victim-of-crime/financial-assistance-benefits
Funded counselling for victims of crime, their immediate family members and witnesses.
Contact for eligibility.
BC Society for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse - 604-682-6482
https://bc-malesurvivors.com/for-survivors/funding-your-therapy/
Registered clinical counsellors (RCCs) provide individual and group counselling for male
survivors of sexual abuse. RCC fee: $100 for individual counselling. Group counselling: $40 per week. Reduced cost counselling provided by practicum students at $45/hr. Victim services workers on staff to help apply for funding for those who qualify.
Battered Women’s Support Services - 604-687-1867
https://www.bwss.org/support/programs/counselling/
Counselling and support services for any woman who has been abused in an intimate
relationship as well as women survivors of childhood sexual abuse, adult sexual assault and
Indigenous residential school survivors.
WAVAW Rape Crisis Centre - 604-255-6228
https://www.wavaw.ca/counselling/
Individual counselling and group support for cis and trans women, two-spirit, trans and/or nonbinary people who have experienced sexual assault
MMIWG2S Family Counselling Program-WAVAW Rape Crisis Centre 604-255-6344
http://www.wavaw.ca/mmiw-family-counselling/
Free counselling for family members of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and
two-spirit people. Family members includes extended families, community families and selfidentified family members.
Atira Community Services Society - Stopping The Violence Counselling
604-331-1407 ext. 106 or 107
https://atira.bc.ca/what-we-do/program/stopping-the-violence-counselling/
Free individual and group counselling for women and transwomen who have experienced
relationship abuse, sexual assault, or physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
BIPOC
First Nations Health Authority - 1-800-317-7878 (Toll Free)
http://www.fnha.ca/benefits/mental-health
Mental health provider list: http://www.fnha.ca/Documents/FNHA-First-Nations-Health-Benefits-Mental-Health-Provider-List.pdf
Provides coverage to access mental health providers, including counsellors, social workers, and psychologists. FNHB covers three mental health programs: Short-Term Crisis Intervention, Indian Residential School Resolution Health Support Program, and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls - Health Support Services.
Metro Vancouver Indigenous Counselling
https://mvic.ca/mental-health-and-wellness-program/
Free professional counselling for Indigenous individuals across BC, registered with the First
Nations Health Authority. Waitlist form: https://mvic.ca/indigenous-counselling-application/
Vancouver Black Therapy and Advocacy Foundation
https://vancouverblacktherapyfoundation.com/sanctuary
Non-profit organization linking Black community members with accredited Black local
counsellors in Metro Vancouver. Priority for Black, disabled and LGBTQIA+ folks.
Indigenous Counselling Program - WAVAW Rape Crisis Centre - 604-255-6344
https://www.wavaw.ca/indigenous-counselling/
Free one-to-one counselling for Indigenous including trans and cis women, as well as trans,
non-binary, and Two Spirit people, incorporating Aboriginal healing approaches and traditions based on the Medicine Wheel.
Addictions
Addictions Services, Vancouver Coastal Health - 604-675-3710
http://www.vch.ca/your-care/mental-health-substance-use/substance-use-services
Substance use assessment, counselling and treatment planning for individuals, couples and
families. Group counselling also available. Free.
BC Responsible and Problem Gambling Program - 1-888-795-6111 (available 24/7)
https://www.bcresponsiblegambling.ca/getting-help/find-counsellor
Free professional, multilingual counselling for any British Columbian struggling with their own or their family member’s gambling. Counsellors have a minimum of a Master’s degree in a counselling-related discipline.
Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of BC - 604-628-1134
Drug and Alcohol Outpatient Services - 520 Richards St. Vancouver
https://nccabc.ca/health/alcohol-drug-outpatient-services/
Walk in or call to set up an appointment. One-to-one adult, youth, family and group counselling for Indigenous people, part of an intensive outpatient treatment program.
Mental Health
Vancouver Coastal Mental Health - Vancouver Hospital - 604-675-3710
http://www.vch.ca/your-care/mental-health-substance-use/mental-health-outpatient-services
Group therapy for depression, anxiety, stress. Individual mental health assessments. Referral through your family doctor, or via a walk-in clinic.
SAFER - Vancouver Coastal Health - 604-675-3700
http://www.vch.ca/Pages/Suicide-Attempt-Follow-up,-Education---Research-SAFER.aspx?res_id=474
For Vancouver residents, provides counselling for individuals age 19 and over who have made a suicide attempt, are currently suicidal, or have suicidal thoughts; also offers support and education for people who are concerned about the risk of suicide in a significant other or bereaved by a suicide death.
Kelty’s Key Online Therapy - Vancouver Coastal Health - 604-675-3700
https://www.keltyskey.com/
Free, cognitive-behavioural online therapy for qualifying Vancouver residents. Registered online clients are assigned an online psychotherapist for time-limited sessions. The general public may also access the online courses in a self-help capacity (without therapist assistance).
Bounce Back Program - Canadian Mental Health Association - 1-866-639-0522
http://www.cmha.bc.ca/programs-services/bounce-back/
Telephone coaching for people with mild-moderate depression with or without accompanying anxiety. Coaching available in English, Cantonese, French and Punjabi. Family doctor’s referral
required to access this program. Free.
Mood Disorders Association of BC - 604-873-0103 ext. 2
Counselling and Wellness Centre
http://www.mdabc.net/counselling-and-wellness-centre-mdabc
Individual therapy with certified counsellor ($85-$95 an hour) or intern ($50 hour). Group
therapy also available.
Multilingual
SUCCESS - Individual and Family Counselling - 604-408-7266 or 604-684-1628
https://successbc.ca/counselling-crisis-support/services/counselling/
Counselling offered in Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Farsi and English with a focus on helping new immigrants of Chinese and other ethnic origins. Play and art therapy also available. Fees charged on a sliding scale based on income.
MOSAIC - Stopping The Violence Family Counselling - 604-254-9626 (Ask for the Stopping
the Violence Counsellor and/or the Women’s Support Worker).
https://www.mosaicbc.org/services/counselling/stopping-the-violence/
Free, confidential counselling support and multicultural outreach services for women who have experienced, or are at risk of, abuse, threats, or violence in an intimate relationship, sexual assault or childhood abuse. 1:1 counselling and group support. Services available in English, Punjabi and Hindi.
MOSAIC - Vietnamese Family Support Program -
604-254-9626 ext.1030 (Ask for the Vietnamese Family Support Program).
https://www.mosaicbc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/T56770Vietnamese_VFC_June06_Web.pdf
One-on-one or family support and counselling for a variety of life issues. Services available in Vietnamese and English.
Vancouver and Lower Mainland Multicultural Family Support Services Society
Multicultural Outreach/ Stopping the Violence Program - 604-436-1025
https://www.vlmfss.ca/multicultural-outreach
Individual counselling, group counselling, advocacy, crisis intervention and referrals for women experiencing any form of abuse or violence, provided in numerous languages.
Youth
Urban Native Youth Association (UNYA) - Counselling Program
604-253-5885 or link.counsellor@unya.bc.ca (intake counsellor works on Mondays)
https://unya.bc.ca/programs/alcohol-drug-counsellors/
Free individual and group clinical counselling for Indigenous youth, ages 13-24.
Or contact the Wellness Centre for drop-in counselling hours: https://unya.bc.ca/programs/native-youth-health-wellness-centre/
Dan’s Legacy - Therapeutic Counselling Program
tom@danslegacy.com
https://www.danslegacy.com/help/
Counselling for youth ages 15-25 who have experienced abuse or are affected by substance use. Family counselling also available. Bursaries available for those unable to afford therapy.
Drop-In Counselling Program - The Foundry - 1-833-308-6379
https://foundrybc.ca/virtual/drop-in-counselling/
Single-session virtual counselling for youth ages 12-24 and their caregivers. Counselling by
voice, video or chat.
Trauma Counselling for Children Affected by Family Violence (PEACE) - 604-436-1025
Vancouver and Lower Mainland Multicultural Family Support Services Society
https://www.vlmfss.ca/childrens-programs
Counselling available for children ages 3-18 who have been exposed to domestic violence.
Kids Help Phone - 24/7 - In English or French
1-800-668-6868 - to talk to a professional counsellor
https://kidshelpphone.ca/ (to start live chat) or access online resources
text CONNECT to 686868 for crisis text support - https://kidshelpphone.ca/text/
Phone, text or live chat. Anonymous and confidential. No need to give your name.
Health-Related
Callanish Society - 604-732-0633
https://www.callanish.org/ongoing-programs
Counselling for adults and youth affected by cancer at any stage, and for their family members.
Counselling also available for family members grieving the loss of a loved one from cancer.
Sliding scale rate ranging from $50 to $150 / session.
Friends For Life - 604-682-5992
https://www.vancouverfriendsforlife.ca/copy-of-services-2
Free counselling for residents of Vancouver City Centre facing life challenges associated with HIV, cancer, hepatitis C and other chronic illnesses
Adapt Clinic - Genetic Counselling Program - BC Women’s Hospital
Contact: Angela Inglis: 604-875-2726 or Emily Morris: 604-875-2000 ext. 6787
http://www.bcmhsus.ca/our-services/genetic-counselling-(the-adapt-clinic)
Free 1:1 counselling for anyone of any age who has a diagnosis of a mental health or
psychiatric disorder, or for anyone with a family history of mental health issues, seeking to better understand potential risks associated with the mental health condition as well as strategies for protecting future mental health.
Chuck Jung Associates Psychological & Counselling Services* - 604-874-6574
https://www.chuckjung.com/pro-bono-counselling-tbi/
No-cost counselling for individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and their family members, delivered at Port Coquitlam and Burnaby offices by supervised psychology doctoral students.
*While not a non-profit organization, availability of counselling services in the community for people affected by TBIs is extremely limited, hence inclusion on this list
Extended Health Benefits
If you have extended health through your employer, check with HR or your insurance plan to see whether your employer has paid-for counselling benefits. Sometimes this is a separate, contracted service (Employee Assistance Program), other times you are covered for a particular counselling professional such as a Registered Social Worker (RSW or RCSW), Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) or a Registered Psychologist (R.Psych), whom you would hire privately. Be clear on who you’re covered for if reimbursement is important to you! Most of the time, in such arrangements, you pay the therapist first and he or she gives you a receipt for reimbursement through your extended health. Check out the following article: https://willowtreecounselling.ca/articles/am-i-covered-understanding-your-counsellingoptions/
Crisis Services and Hotlines in Vancouver - July 2021
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911.
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• Access and Assessment Centre (AAC) - 604-675-3700 Non-life-threatening mental health
or addictions concerns - 7:30am-11pm, 7 days a week. Phone, drop-in and outreach support available for Vancouver residents. - Segal Centre, VGH - 803 W. 12th Ave. Vancouver
http://www.vch.ca/your-care/mental-health-substance-use/vancouver-access-assessment-centre
• 1-800-SUICIDE, BC-wide, 24/7.
• Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre of BC - 24/7: Phone 604-872-3311
(Vancouver) or 1-866-661-3311 (toll free); Chat (noon-1am): https://crisiscentrechat.ca/ or
youth chat: https://youthinbc.com/ (noon-1am)
• Health Link BC - Nurse Line - 24/7 - Phone: 8-1-1 or 7-1-1 (hearing impaired)
• First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line and On-line Counselling
Toll Free: 1-855-242-3310 Chat Line: www.hopeforwellness.ca
Immediate counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous people across the country.
• KUU-US Indigenous Crisis Line (24/7) Toll Free: 1- 800-588-8717
Adult/Elder: 250-723-4050 Child/Youth: 250-723-2040
• National Residential School Crisis Line (former residential school students) 24/7 –
1-866-952-4419
• WAVAW 24-7 Rape Crisis Line - 604-255-6344 or Toll-Free: 1-877-392-7583
• Kids Help Phone - 24/7 - 1-800-668-6868 or Text CONNECT to 686868
• Youth Against Violence Line - 24/7: 1-800-680-4264 or Text: 604-836-6381
TTY: 604-875-0885. Help for youth in danger or being threatened.
Anonymous. No call display. Multilingual. Concerned caregivers can also call for help.
• Chinese Help Lines - 604-270-8233 (Cantonese) 604-270-8222 (Mandarin) -10am-10pm
• Trans Lifeline - Toll Free in Canada: 1-877-330-6366 - https://translifeline.org/
Peer support hotline run by and for trans people. 7am-1am Pacific Time.
• Critical Incident Response - WorkSafe BC - 1-888-922-3700 (9am-11pm, 7 days wk)
For workers who have witnessed a traumatic incident in the workplace. Free.
• Gambling Support Line (24/7) – 1-888-795-6111
• Seniors Abuse and Information Line - 604-437-1940 / Toll-Free: 1-866-437-1940
TTY: 604-428-3359 or TTY toll-free 1-855-306-1443.
Weekdays 8am-8pm; Weekends 10am to 5:30pm, excluding statutory holidays.