mindfulness for life

Anyone who declares that they are not able to access therapy at the regular rate ($100+), may pay the affordable rate with our affordable rate therapists. There is no limit to the number of sessions.

While we are not able make up for a lack of public funding in mental health, we recognize the difficulty in accessing affordable psychotherapy in our community. We see an opportunity to make a small difference. Therapists who are completing requirements towards their degree are usually volunteering their time – we see no need to make excess profit from their services. Some of the costs of providing this service are contributed by clients who are able to pay the affordable therapist’s full rate.

They have largely completed their training.
Most student therapists have largely completed their coursework towards a Master’s Degree and are in the final step of completing a certain number of supervised clinical hours.

They are Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying).
Most student therapists in our clinic have completed the requirements to become members of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, or will do so during their placement with us. This is often a requirement for psychotherapy to be covered by insurance benefit plans.

They are working closely with an experienced supervisor and getting lots of specialized training.
Our clinic prioritizes clinical education and your therapist is working as a team with an experienced clinical supervisor. They meet regularly to review videos of sessions, hone their skills and ideas, and to develop specialized knowledge such as treating trauma or working with neurodivergent individuals.

It’s a great way to find a skilled therapist before their wait list fills up.
Successful therapists find themselves in high demand and rarely have room to take on new clients. Finding a great fit with a therapist at the beginning of their career is a smart way to get started.

Our clinic prioritizes mentorship, education and support that produces honest, effective, informed and skilled therapists. We go beyond counselling basics and textbook CBT, with an emphasis on mindfulness, creativity, somatic/trauma- specific, neurodivergence-affirming and culturally sensitive therapy.  We look for therapists who walk the talk, with a depth of life experience and personal practice.

You will make a plan with your therapist that works for you. While meeting weekly or biweekly makes for a strong start, your therapist can adapt their approach to what you can afford or fit in your schedule. If you can’t meet often, you can make a plan with your therapist for complimentary activities that keep you engaged between sessions, like readings, journalling or quiet reflection time. If you can only meet a couple of times, let your therapist know and they will help you focus on what’s most impactful to do with those few meetings.

No-cost psychotherapy or counselling can be very difficult to access, but you do have some options.

• Psychotherapy is generally not covered by OHIP, unless provided by a GP psychotherapist.
• Your family doctor may be able to refer you to a counsellor who is part of your family health team, to a hospital based program, CAMH or an online therapy program like BounceBack.
• Consult 211 (dial from any phone) for community organizations near you that offer counselling services. These are often free or low cost for low income people. Some examples are Family Service Toronto, Woodgreen.
• Children and youth services up to age 29 can be accessed through the What’s Up Walk in.