Is counseling covered by my insurance plan?

Counselling is not covered by Alberta Health Care, but it is covered by most extended health care plans (like Blue Cross, Sunlife, and Great West, for example). These private, extended health care plans are often provided as a benefit through your employer. These plans provide coverage for the services of a Registered Psychologist (also referred to as a “chartered” or “licensed” psychologist). Your plan might also list this as coverage for “counselling,” “psychology,” or “psychotherapy.”

Robert Hammel is a Registered Psychologist with the Alberta College of Psychologists (Registration 4387) – this qualification is a requirement of many insurance plans.

Psychological counselling is also considered a tax-deductible medical expense.

How do I know if I have mental health insurance coverage?

To determine if you have mental health insurance coverage, the first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier/provider and review your particular policy coverage — there is often a booklet of coverage provided to you that will outline the coverage you have.

Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:

• What are my counselling/mental health benefits?
• What is the coverage amount per session?
• What is the coverage amount per year?
• Is approval required from my primary care physician?

I am happy to answer any additional questions you may have about insurance coverage — call today!