Mental Health Counselling | Vancouver Clinical Counsellors
Find a qualified clinical counsellor in Vancouver, British Columbia. At Vitality Collective, we provide in-person and virtual counselling for individuals in Vancouver, Surrey, Chilliwack and virtually across BC.
Vitality Collective is a team of therapists specializing in counselling for individuals, children, couples/relationships and families in Vancouver, Chilliwack, Surrey and online. Whether you're navigating stress at work, dealing with a big change in life, or processing grief, mental health counselling in Vancouver can offer you the support you need to manage life’s challenges.
Here are the key considerations to keep in mind when choosing the right therapist in Vancouver. This guide covers important topics, including the cost of counselling, how to choose a therapist who fits your needs, and the differences between a therapist and a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). Whether you’re new to therapy or looking to switch providers, these FAQs will help you make an informed decision about your mental health care.
How much does counselling cost in Vancouver?
At Vitality Collective, we are committed to providing transparent and upfront information regarding the cost of mental health counselling in Vancouver. Our goal is to ensure you have a clear understanding of our fees, allowing you to make informed decisions without any unexpected costs. Below are the current fees for counselling services in Vancouver:
Individual Session (50 min in-person or online) - $155
Extended Session (75 min in-person or online) - $215
Couples/Family Session (50 min in-person or online) - $175
Couples/Family Extended Session (75 min in-person or online) - $235
CVAP Session (50 min in-person or online) - $20 private co-pay
What’s the difference between psychologists and Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC)?
Psychologists and Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) both provide valuable mental health support to BC residents, but their roles differ significantly, and understanding these differences can help you make the best choice for your needs—or your child’s. The greatest differences between psychologists and counsellors are their schooling and what they are qualified to do. Psychologists have advanced training at the doctoral level, allowing them to provide assessments and diagnoses. RCCs have a minimum of a master’s degree. Psychologists can provide a diagnosis and conduct psycho-educational assessments for issues like learning difficulties. While RCCs cannot diagnose, they are often the first choice by clients to provide mental health support as they excel and are trained in providing accessible, client-centered counselling for a wide range of issues. Counsellors also invest in receiving extensive post-graduate training in various evidence-based modalities as psychologists. For example, CBT, EMDR, AEDP, IFS, and other established therapies can be delivered by a counsellor trained in those methods.
What is the difference between therapist and counsellor?
In Vancouver, the terms counsellor and therapist are often used interchangeably, both referring to professionals who help individuals navigate emotional, psychological, and mental health challenges. While there may be slight differences in training or approach depending on the practitioner, both counsellors and therapists are dedicated to supporting clients in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and personal growth.
At Vitality Collective, our team of qualified professionals—whether titled counsellors or therapists—provides compassionate, client-centered care to help you work through life’s challenges and achieve your wellness goals.
Is counselling covered by BC Medical?
A common concern for many people seeking therapy in Vancouver is whether BC Medical will cover the cost of counselling. The short answer is that BC Medical does not cover counselling in Vancouver. Although BC Medical doesn’t cover the cost of mental health counselling in Vancouver, some extended health insurance plans through your employer may help cover the cost. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see if therapy is included. At Vitality Collective, we are committed to making therapy accessible by offering sliding scale fees for those in need, and we can assist with direct billing when needed. To learn more about fees and direct billing at Vitality Collective, click here.
What can therapy help with?
People seek therapy in Vancouver for so many reasons, and it’s a misconception that you need to be dealing with large challenges such as trauma or marital concerns in order to benefit from therapy. In fact, many of our clients visit us for support in managing everyday issues like stress, communication, and more. Therapy in Vancouver can support you through many aspects of life, from managing mental health issues to improving relationships and personal growth, at any stage of life.
For children and families, therapy can help address behavioural challenges, communication issues, or support during major life transitions. Couples therapy can improve communication and rebuild trust, while individual therapy helps with personal challenges like anger management, self-esteem, and anxiety. Therapy also provides tools for handling stress, depression, and trauma. Whether you’re struggling with personal issues or just looking to improve your emotional well-being, Vancouver clinical counsellors at Vitality Collective can guide you through the process.
How do I choose the best therapist in Vancouver for me?
Finding the right therapist is essential to making progress in therapy. At Vitality Collective, we focus on matching you with a counsellor who aligns with your goals, preferences, and needs. The connection between you and your therapist plays a significant role in your therapy’s success, so feeling understood and comfortable is key. We begin by learning about you through our New Client Inquiry form, where you can share your goals, preferences, and availability. Our Client Care Coordinators then recommend counsellors with expertise tailored to your concerns, whether you’re dealing with stress, trauma, or relationship issues. We also consider communication style, therapist background, and any personal preferences to ensure you feel at ease. If your first match isn’t the right fit, we are flexible and ready to explore other options. With in-person counselling in Vancouver, Surrey, and Chilliwack, as well as online sessions, we are committed to helping you find the right support.
How long does a therapy session take?
At Vitality Collective, we offer two therapy session lengths to suit your needs. Our standard session is 50 minutes and is available in-person or online, providing ample time to explore your concerns and work toward your goals. For those seeking more in-depth support, we offer an extended 75-minute session, also available in-person or online, allowing for a deeper exploration of complex issues or additional therapeutic techniques.
Can therapy really help me?
It’s natural to wonder whether therapy can make a real difference in your life. The answer is yes—mental health counselling in Vancouver can help you manage emotional struggles, process difficult experiences, and make lasting changes in your life. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or grief, therapy provides the tools and strategies to work through challenges. At Vitality Collective, our team of Vancouver clinical counsellors is committed to helping you create meaningful change in your life, whether it’s through understanding past trauma, improving relationships, or managing stress.
What can I expect during my first therapy session?
Your first therapy session, whether in-person or online, is an opportunity to get to know your therapist, discuss your concerns, and set goals for your work together. During the session, your Vancouver therapist will listen to your story, ask questions, and explain how the therapy process will unfold. They will also cover practical details like confidentiality to ensure you feel informed and comfortable.
We understand that finding the right therapist is essential for meaningful progress. That’s why we use a best-match approach, carefully considering your preferences, goals, and communication style. If, after your first session, you feel that the fit isn’t quite right, we encourage you to let us know. Therapy is most effective when you feel comfortable with your counsellor, and we’re happy to work with you to explore alternative options to find a better match. Your comfort and success are our priorities, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to begin therapy in Vancouver?
Taking the step to seek therapy is a courageous decision, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re dealing with stress, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, or seeking personal growth, Vancouver mental health counselling can provide the tools and support you need. Our experienced counsellors serve clients across Vancouver—including Downtown, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Kitsilano, Yaletown, and beyond—and we also offer online therapy sessions for added convenience. If you’re ready to get started and need help finding the right Vancouver clinical counsellor, contact our team today—we’re here to help you take the next step toward positive change.
