Wondering how much therapy costs in Calgary? You’re not alone. Whether you’re looking for help with anxiety, depression, stress, or family concerns, understanding the typical fees — and your options — can make it easier to take the first step.
Standard Therapy Fees in Calgary
As of 2025, the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) recommends a fee of $235 per 50-minute session for registered psychologists. Most private therapists in Calgary follow this guideline, though actual rates may vary depending on the therapist’s qualifications.
Here’s a quick breakdown of typical rates:
Therapist Type | Fee per 50-minute Session |
Registered Psychologist (RPsych) | ~$235 |
Registered Social Worker (RSW/RCSW) | ~$220 |
Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) | ~$160–180 |
These fees are usually for individual therapy. Couples, family, or assessment sessions may cost more, especially if they are longer in duration.
Do You Need to Pay GST?
No — sessions with licensed therapists (like psychologists and social workers) are exempt from GST in Alberta, so the price you see is the price you pay.
Is Therapy Covered by Insurance?
Many employee benefit plans and private insurance policies cover therapy in Calgary. In most cases, you’ll be covered for sessions with:
Registered Psychologists
Registered Clinical Social Workers
Canadian Certified Counsellors (check your plan)
Before booking, it’s a good idea to check what’s covered, how much you’re reimbursed per session, and whether there’s a yearly limit.
What If You Can’t Afford Standard Fees?
You still have options. Here are ways to access affordable therapy in Calgary:
Sliding Scale Therapy
Some therapists offer sliding scale fees based on income. These sessions might cost $50–150, depending on the therapist’s availability and your financial situation.
Therapy Interns or Provisional Psychologists
Some clinics work with graduate students or therapists-in-training who offer lower rates (as low as $50 per session), supervised by licensed professionals.
Community & Non-Profit Services
Calgary has several community organizations and non-profits that offer low-cost or free counselling. These services often have waitlists but can be a great option if you need support and cost is a barrier.
Online Therapy
Some Calgary therapists offer online sessions, which can be cheaper than in-person due to lower overhead. You also save time and transportation costs.
How to Find a Therapist in Calgary That Fits Your Budget
Theralist makes it easy to search for therapists in Calgary and filter by:
Fee range
Type of therapist (psychologist, social worker, etc.)
In-person or online availability
Specialities (e.g., anxiety, depression, trauma)
Whether you have insurance, need sliding scale options, or are simply looking for the right therapist for your needs, Theralist can help you connect with someone who’s the right fit.
Final Thoughts
Therapy is an investment in your mental health, but it doesn’t have to be out of reach. In Calgary, fees range from $160 to $235 per session, but affordable options exist — from sliding scale services to student clinics and community programs.
