In Ontario, seeing a therapist is generally not covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan). While OHIP covers a wide range of healthcare services, such as visits to doctors and hospital stays, it does not typically cover therapy services provided by therapists like psychologists, psychotherapists, or social workers. However, there are some exceptions, such as if the therapist is a psychologist working in a hospital or clinic under certain circumstances.
For those looking to see a therapist in Oakville, there are a few options for covering therapy services:
Private Insurance: Many people use private health insurance to help cover the cost of therapy sessions. If you have a health benefits plan through your employer, it may include coverage for therapy with an Oakville therapist.
Ontario Autism Program (OAP): If you are seeking therapy for a child with autism, the Ontario Autism Program might provide funding for therapies that can be used with an Oakville therapist.
Sliding Scale Fees: Some therapists in Oakville offer sliding scale fees, making it more affordable for those who do not have insurance coverage. It’s always a good idea to inquire about payment options when booking a session with an Oakville therapist.
Tax Deductions: In some cases, therapy expenses may be eligible for a tax deduction under the Medical Expense Tax Credit. If you are seeing a therapist in Oakville and paying out of pocket, keep your receipts in case you qualify for this deduction.
While OHIP does not cover therapy directly, it is always worth exploring different avenues, such as private insurance, funding programs, or community resources, to help make seeing an Oakville therapist more accessible and affordable.

The average cost of therapy in Ontario can vary depending on several factors, including the type of therapy, the therapist’s qualifications, and the location. Generally, the cost for a session with a therapist in Ontario ranges from $100 to $250 per hour. Here’s a breakdown:
Psychologists: Seeing a psychologist in Oakville usually costs between $150 and $250 per hour, depending on their experience and specialization. Psychologists are often more expensive because they have advanced training and are regulated by the College of Psychologists of Ontario.
Social Workers: A social worker in Oakville may charge between $100 and $150 per hour. Social workers can provide therapy and support for various issues, and their fees are typically lower than those of psychologists.
Psychotherapists: The average cost for a psychotherapist in Oakville typically ranges from $120 to $175 per hour, depending on their qualifications and experience. Psychotherapists are trained in talk therapy and offer services for mental health support.
Occupational Therapists: If you’re seeing an occupational therapist in Oakville, you can expect to pay between $100 and $175 per hour. Occupational therapists focus on helping individuals develop skills for daily living, which can include therapy related to physical, emotional, or cognitive needs.
The cost can also be influenced by whether you are seeing an Oakville therapist privately or through a sliding scale program or insurance. Many Oakville therapists accept insurance, which can help cover some of the cost, depending on your plan.
It’s important to check with the Oakville therapist beforehand to understand their rates and any payment options they may offer, such as sliding scale fees or discounts for multiple sessions.

In Ontario, you do not need a referral to see a therapist, such as a psychologist, psychotherapist, or social worker, for most types of therapy. You can typically contact a therapist directly and schedule an appointment on your own.
However, there are some exceptions and nuances to keep in mind:
Psychologists: You can see a psychologist in Ontario without a referral. Psychologists are regulated healthcare professionals, and you can approach them directly for therapy. That being said, if you plan to use insurance benefits or wish to receive therapy through a family doctor or other healthcare provider, you might need a referral or a letter of recommendation in some cases.
Psychotherapists and Social Workers: Similarly, you can contact a psychotherapist or social worker in Ontario directly without needing a referral. Many people seek therapy for various issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties without involving their primary care provider.
Insurance: If you plan to use private insurance to help cover the cost of therapy, some insurance providers may require a referral or proof of need for therapy from a doctor or other healthcare provider, particularly for services like psychologists or clinical social workers. Be sure to check with your insurance company for specific requirements.
Specialized Programs (e.g., Autism Services)-mental health counselor psychotherapist: In some cases, if you are seeking therapy through specialized programs like the Ontario Autism Program (OAP), you may need a referral or assessment from a healthcare provider (like a pediatrician or psychiatrist) to qualify for funding or services.
To summarize, while a referral is typically not required to see a therapist in Ontario-counselling psychology in progress, you may need one depending on your insurance or the type of therapy you’re seeking. It’s always a good idea to check with the therapist or insurance provider for any specific requirements.

The main difference between therapists and psychologists lies in their training, qualifications, and the types of services they provide. Here’s a breakdown to help clarify the distinction:
1. Education and Training
Therapists:
The term therapist is a broad umbrella term that can refer to several types of mental health professionals, such as psychotherapists, social workers, or counselors.
Therapists typically hold a master’s degree in a related field (e.g., counseling, social work, marriage and family therapy) and may have additional certifications or training in specific therapeutic techniques or approaches.
While they provide therapy and support, therapists are not always required to have advanced degrees like psychologists.
Psychologists:
A psychologist is a regulated mental health professional who has completed doctoral-level training (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology.
Psychologists have extensive training in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions, and they can administer psychological tests to assess cognitive, emotional, and behavioral issues.
They are trained in scientific methods, research, and the development of treatment plans.
2. Scope of Practice
Therapists:
Therapists provide talk therapy and counseling for individuals dealing with mental health challenges like stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues.
Therapists may focus on emotional support, personal growth, and coping strategies, depending on their area of specialization.
They often use techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, and solution-focused therapy, among others.
Psychologists:
In addition to providing therapy (like therapists), psychologists can also conduct psychological assessments and diagnoses for mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, or learning disabilities.
They are trained to evaluate mental health conditions more deeply, using tests and structured interviews, and they can diagnose conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, or clinical depression.
Psychologists are often sought for diagnostic purposes in addition to therapy.
3. Regulation and Licensing
Therapists:
Therapists are regulated by various professional bodies, depending on their specific designation (e.g., College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario for psychotherapists, Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers for social workers).
Their training and regulation can vary depending on their background, and the requirements may not always include a doctoral-level degree.
Psychologists:
Psychologists are strictly regulated in Ontario by the College of Psychologists of Ontario. They are required to complete doctoral-level education, maintain ongoing professional development, and adhere to strict ethical standards.
Psychologists are licensed to provide assessments, diagnoses, and therapy, and their titles are protected by law.
4. Types of Treatment and Services
Therapists:
Therapists typically provide ongoing psychotherapy or counseling to help individuals with personal, emotional, or relational issues.
While they can treat a wide range of mental health conditions, therapists generally focus on talk therapy or counseling techniques and coping mechanisms.
They may not be qualified to conduct formal psychological testing or diagnoses.
Psychologists:
Psychologists provide therapy, but their unique training allows them to assess and diagnose a wide range of mental health conditions using structured tests and clinical interviews.
They often work with individuals who have more complex mental health issues or need a formal diagnosis.
Psychologists can work with children, adolescents, and adults, providing therapy as well as assessments to determine the root causes of behaviors and emotional difficulties.
Summary of Key Differences:
Aspect
Therapists
Psychologists
Education
Master’s degree (e.g., M.A., M.S.W.)
Doctoral degree (Ph.D., Psy.D.)
Scope of Practice
Therapy and counseling
Therapy, counseling, assessment, diagnosis
Regulation
Varies by type of therapist (e.g., CRPO, OCSWSSW)
Regulated by College of Psychologists of Ontario
Ability to Diagnose
Typically no diagnosis
Can diagnose mental health conditions
Testing
Does not conduct psychological testing
Can conduct formal psychological assessments
Conclusion:
While both therapists and psychologists can provide therapy and help individuals manage mental health challenges, psychologists are more specialized in diagnosing mental health conditions and conducting psychological assessments. Therapists, on the other hand, focus on providing emotional support, therapy, and guidance through various counseling approaches. Depending on your needs, you may choose either a therapist or a psychologist. If you need a formal diagnosis or psychological testing, a psychologist might be more appropriate. If you’re seeking counseling or therapy for emotional issues, a therapist may be a great option.