WHERE TO GET AFFORDABLE MENTAL HEALTH THERAPY
Last month the provincial government announced in a news release that they have committed to investing $3.8 billion over the next 10 years towards mental health and addictions services in Ontario. The hope is that this new funding will help to cut-down on wait times for mental health treatment so that individuals who identify as having mental health issues are able to have access to the services they need.
This appears to be a positive step in making therapy accessible and affordable for all Ontarians. The unfortunate reality is that many individuals in Ontario are not able to access the necessary mental health services they need. The wait-list at hospitals, and community mental health centers can be several years long, and for someone with significant mental health needs, that can seem like a lifetime. For those without insurance, having to go and access private services is simply not an option. There are some therapists who have reserved spots on their clients lists for sliding scale clients, where clients are able to access a discounted rate.
There are also several provincial initiatives and support programs that are put in place to help alleviate the strain on the public health system. One of these programs is the “Big White Wall”, an online and mental health and well being website. The website connects individuals with others who are experiencing similar issues and share their stories while also being able to get support from licensed therapists and counsellors. The site is anonymous and allows individuals to explore the site without having to worry about being judged.
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) has a 24/7 Psychiatric Emergency Department at their 250 College Street Location. While there may be a wait for services, it may be a way to get access to immediate support during critical stressful periods. If you are concerned about the immediate safety about yourself or a loved one, you are always able to visit the Emergency room of your nearest hospital.
There are also many free support services available over the phone. Distress centers and help-lines are great resources to access to find out more information about local services. CAMH has an extensive list
of crisis services available in Ontario, which you can check out here: https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/crisis-resources.
If you are looking to access private mental health care and are worried about being able to afford it please check out the following websites:
https://www.affordabletherapytoronto.com/therapists.html
https://openpathcollective.org/find-a-clinician/?address=&distance=50&n=&active=false&remote=&age=ðnic=&language=&modality=&specialties=&treatment=&pagination=0
https://www.betterhelp.com/
Both Natasha and Denise offer a sliding scale for counselling.
