Is Family Counseling Covered by Insurance?
The beginning of your journey toward mental wellness can be confusing and frustrating, especially when you're trying to figure out how to pay for it. You’ve found a counsellor who feels like a good fit for you and your family member, you're ready to begin, but that inkling of worry begins to creep in: Is family counseling covered by insurance? While 87% of Canadians want universal mental health care, according to the Canadian Mental Health Association, unfortunately it’s not yet a reality.
At Oaks and Sands Counselling, we understand how overwhelming this part can be, and are here to help you find your way to accessible counselling and therapy services.
Public Insurance vs. Private Insurance: Is Therapy covered by Insurance in Canada?
If you're hoping to use the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for mental health support, you may have already discovered its limits. OHIP only covers services provided by a medical doctor or through a publicly funded hospital or clinic. This means private therapy with a Registered Psychotherapist (RP), Registered Social Worker (RSW), or licensed therapist in private practice isn’t eligible.
Most people turn to private or workplace insurance, as some workplace health benefits plans include mental health coverage in their extended benefits.
Know Your Provider’s Policies and Insurance Benefits
Family therapy often isn’t listed in insurance plans, and this can cause a lot of confusion around whether or not you’re actually covered. It’s typical for insurance providers to require an identified client to be named on the claim, even if it’s a group that’s attending for family or group therapy. In some cases, that person may need diagnosed mental health issues, such as depression, to meet criteria for reimbursement under your health insurance plan. This applies whether you're seeking individual therapy, couples therapy, prescribed medication, or other mental health services.
Not all mental health professionals and family therapists are accepted under every policy. Some plans will reimburse sessions with a psychologist, others with an RP or RSW. Some cover all three. The only way to know for sure is to check directly with your insurance provider or review your workplace benefits plans. Some families may be eligible for mental healthcare through an employee assistance program, especially if there are documented mental health concerns or conditions that require support.
If you're unsure, our team can help you better understand your plan's coverage and direct you to appropriate resources.
Direct Billing Isn’t Always Available - Be Prepared for Out of Pocket Expenses
Even if your therapy services qualify and your therapist is eligible, direct billing may not be offered. Many therapists in Ontario ask clients to pay upfront and submit receipts to insurance companies for reimbursement.
This can add uncertainty if you don’t know how to submit a claim, how much coverage is provided, or how many therapy sessions are included in your group insurance benefits. Having a sound understanding of insurance coverage can reduce your out-of-pocket therapy costs and ensure sessions covered last as long as possible.
A Grounded Next Step - Oak and Sands Counselling
Whether you’re managing stress, navigating relationship challenges, or looking for more ease at home, family therapy can be a helpful step forward. Oaks and Sands Counselling offers both in person services in Alliston, Ontario and virtual sessions across Ontario.
Our experienced team includes trauma-informed mental health providers who understand the complexity of mental illnesses and are here to support your family in finding clarity and connection. If you still have questions about therapy options or how insurance covers therapy, our FAQs is a good place to start, or contact us directly for a helping hand.
