How Much Does Therapy Cost in Canada?

What Does Therapy Actually Cost in Canada?

The range across Canada is wide. A session with a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) or Registered Social Worker (RSW) typically runs between $90 and $200 per session. Sessions with psychologists, who hold doctoral-level training, often start at $200 and can go up to $350 or more. Psychiatrists are covered by provincial health plans when accessed through a physician referral, so there is no out-of-pocket cost in that pathway, though wait times can be significant.

Several factors shape where a therapist’s rate lands within that range:

• Designation and training: A Registered Psychotherapist has a different training pathway than a psychologist; each designation reflects different education requirements and regulatory bodies.
• Years of experience: More experienced therapists generally charge more, though newer therapists under supervision (see our guide on what Qualifying means) often offer highly attentive, affordable care.
• Specialization: Therapists trained in specific modalities like EMDR for trauma or Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples may charge at the higher end.
• Practice format: Solo practitioners set their own rates; clinic-based therapists may have standardized pricing.

What Does Sukoon Charge?

Sukoon publishes its pricing transparently. Sessions are currently priced as follows: adult therapy at $175 per 50-minute session, teen therapy at $175, student therapy at $150, and couples and family therapy at $195. Nutrition consultations range from $70 to $140 depending on session length. A full breakdown is available on our pricing page.

Every session includes an official receipt with the therapist’s full name, designation, and licence number, everything needed to submit an insurance claim.

Is Therapy Tax-Deductible in Canada?

Yes, in many cases. The Canada Revenue Agency allows therapy expenses to be claimed as medical expenses on a personal income tax return, subject to conditions. The therapist must be a qualifying practitioner recognized in the province or territory where services are provided, and receipts must be retained. Eligible expenses are claimed as a non-refundable tax credit — meaning they reduce the amount of tax owed. The claim covers expenses paid within any 12-month period ending in the tax year. The full list of eligible expenses and criteria is available directly from the CRA. If expenses were reimbursed through insurance, only the unreimbursed portion is claimable.

Does GST/HST Apply to Therapy in Canada?

Many therapy services are exempt from GST/HST. In 2024, the CRA broadened exemptions for psychotherapy and counselling services provided by regulated professionals. Whether a service is taxable depends on the therapist’s designation and the province of practice. The CRA’s full guidance on the GST/HST exemption for psychotherapy and counselling services is worth reviewing. When in doubt, ask the therapist directly — most are familiar with their tax obligations and can clarify before a first session.

What If Cost Is a Barrier?

For many South Asian families, asking for financial support carries its own weight: the worry that it signals weakness, or that it reflects on the family. We want to name that directly: accessing financial support for therapy is a practical, dignified decision, not a reflection of anything other than resourcefulness.

At Sukoon, we offer limited financial support without compromising the quality of care. This is available on request, confidentially, and without judgment. We also encourage everyone to check their workplace benefits — therapy is often covered, and many people simply don’t know. See our guide on how to find a therapist covered by insurance for a full walkthrough.

Beyond Sukoon, sliding scale therapy is an option through some practitioners and community clinics. eMentalHealth.ca and CMHA.ca both have searchable directories for low-cost and publicly funded services across Canada.

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