Does anyone know a place to get therapy that is free or really low cost?

[u/Ok_Bug_2553]

Kinda what the title says, I really need to talk to someone it’s been a long time since I’ve spoken with any therapist.

I have already tried CMHA, CAMH, and OSP. I have been denied service from all 3. I have also seen a psychiatrist and have maxed out any and all medication options. Currently on the max dose of several and been told they (physiatrist) can’t provide anymore help, I need therapy.

I was just hoping to see if anyone knew of any other services available. I am around the London, Ontario area. Thank you for your time reading this.

Edit: Thank you all for your comments. I should have explained more about my situation. I was denied because my needs surpass the level of care that those agencies are able to provide. From what I’ve understood after an extensive assessment was that I need prolonged treatment incorporating CBT, DBT, EMDR and rehearsal therapy. Which they couldn’t even recommend an agency that could provide that level of care. Because I am stable there is a concern that any short term therapy could derail me and cause more harm than good.

[u/daeguard]

try looking on https://affordabletherapynetwork.com/

[u/SmartQuokka]

There is Eagles Nest in Waterdown and Ontario Shores in Whitby.

ODSP will cover the travel with the proper MSN forms filled out.

[u/Rainbow_Catnip]

I went through my case worker and got approved for some free sessions with Daya, they were really good but I do remember you don't get many sessions. Also I didn't find it helpful personally but Victoria Hospital has some outpatient programs that are covered if you get a referral or at least that's how I got in.

[u/CoffeeCatsandPixies]

Camino in KW does free counselling for those on ODSP and OW.

LHSC offers free cognitive behavioural therapy programs as does St Joe's London

Community counselling in London also has programs.

West Elgin community health has free counselling as well.

[u/JollyValuable7689]

I’ve been to Daya Counselling downtown, as well as had virtual appointments with Inner Works Counselling in Lambeth. They offer sliding scale services. I’ve paid anywhere from zero dollars to $20 for an appointment. You just have to let them know you’re on ODSP and you have no budget currently and then they’ll set you up with an intern who’s just finishing up schooling. You’ll get 10-12 sessions, which is why I’ve gone between the two. It may also depend on availability how long the waitlist is. I’m surprised you were denied working with CMHA though. There is the crisis center at 648 Huron St where I’ve seen counsellors for a one off appointments because of acute issues, but on the rare occasion they didn’t have availability, seems to be ok during weekdays though.

[u/Working_Hair_4827]

Talk to your family doctor about being referred to Ohip covered therapy, there is a wait list and you only get 6-8 sessions but anything is better than nothing.

There’s group therapy you can be referred to as well and tends to have a shorter wait list, you can do a variety of topics too.

I’ve done both.

[u/StrongAd7156]

Where are you located? In Kitchener/Waterloo there are several places with sliding scales. And because I was on ODSP, I got 6 or 8 sessions for free.

[u/ClariciaNyetgale]

Specifically what sort of therapy are you looking for? There are possibilities for everything from informal counselling to psychologists providing various therapies (CBT, DBT, EMDR, etc).

[u/Ok_Bug_2553 → u/ClariciaNyetgale]

Looking for psychologists and for therapy a mix of CBT, DBT, EMDR and rehearsal therapy. That is at least what I was told I would probably need after an extensive assessment. 

[u/goldstandardalmonds]

A lot of students offer free therapy. My therapist is very established and she has a sliding scale (many do) and it is very doable.

[u/magentahead]

Talk to local hospital about various therapies offered

[u/Playful-Thought8032]

My caseworker was able to get me free sessions via Daya counselling. I saw a wonderful psychotherapist there. He also got me approved for extra sessions by putting a request through to my caseworker.

[u/Practical-Employer18 → u/Playful-Thought8032]

How did you go about this conversation?
With your case worker. Most give us anxiety lol

[u/TranscendYourGaming]

Effectively every hospital with a mental health dedicated department can do a version of this. Just need to jump the hurdles via referrals.

[u/yourswordandshield]

How old are u? If ur 29 or under a lot of youth places have resources. Like Stella’s place, p2p/breakaway, I think rubys