6 Best Counselling Services in Ottawa
Nowadays, people have a heightened awareness of their mental health. They are more open to the idea of seeking help, both from loved ones and from professionals.
In the past years, counselling was a foreign and often misunderstood concept. People think that those who undergo therapy are those who greatly suffer from mental diseases.
At present, people regard counselling as a powerful tool to improve themselves and their relationships. It does not have to be something grave before they seek the help of a mental health professional.
Do you want to improve your general perspective in life? Do you want to deal with a pressing mental health concern?
We prepared a list of the best counselling services in Ottawa to help you decide. Please take note that they are not in a particular order.
How Much Do Counselling Services Cost in Ottawa
This question is among the top considerations when someone wishes to avail of counselling services. OHIP does not cover fees for this kind of service.
However, you can check with your insurance provider for partial or full coverage of fees. You should also be aware of HST charges.
Asking upfront before booking an appointment could help you prepare for the fees. But, here’s a quick estimate to give you an idea of the costs per session.
The Best Counselling Services in Ottawa
Now that you have a better grasp of the importance of counselling and the average cost of each session, it is time to look at the top counselling services in Ottawa.
Since we want you to only get prime counselling services, we looked at some important factors that set our choices apart from others. Here are the criteria we used to complete our list.
Choosing the best counselling services in Ottawa assures you that you will see great transformations in your life. Now, it’s time to check the list below to help you start your journey to change.
1. Capital Choice Counselling
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Services | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Operating hours | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Customer feedback | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
Capital Choice Counselling, based in Ottawa, has been serving the community since 2006, providing high-quality counselling and psychotherapy services across multiple locations including Downtown, Ottawa South/Barrhaven, Kanata, and Orleans. The organization is renowned for its comprehensive approach to mental health, offering a diverse range of therapies to cater to various needs. Clients can choose their therapist based on the reason for therapy, location, or preferred language, with services available in English, French, Spanish, Ukrainian, Serbian, Croatian, Russian, Arabic, and Swahili. Capital Choice Counselling is also recognized as the #1 marriage counsellors in Ottawa, highlighting their expertise and commitment to relationship therapy.
One of the significant advantages of Capital Choice Counselling is their extensive network of highly qualified professionals. Their team includes registered psychotherapists, social workers, and psychologists who specialize in various forms of therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy, family counselling, marriage counselling, and workplace stress counselling. This diversity in expertise allows clients to find a therapist that best fits their specific needs.
With key locations spread across Ottawa, clients can easily find a counselling center near their home or workplace. The organization also offers online and virtual counselling options, making it easier for clients with busy schedules or those who prefer remote sessions to receive the support they need. Furthermore, all fees for their services can be covered by workplace benefits and insurance, reducing the financial burden on clients and making mental health support more accessible to a broader audience.
However, one potential issue is the challenge of choosing the right therapist from their extensive team. While the ability to select a therapist based on various criteria is beneficial, it can also be overwhelming for clients who are unsure about which type of therapy or therapist would be the best fit for their needs. Although the organization provides support in matching clients with the right therapist, the initial process can still be daunting for some individuals.
In conclusion, Capital Choice Counselling stands out as a leading provider of mental health services in Ottawa, offering a wide range of therapies and a diverse team of professionals to meet the needs of their clients. Their commitment to accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and comprehensive care makes them a top choice for those seeking counselling and psychotherapy.
Pros
- Multilingual services
- Various locations in Ottawa
- Many counsellors to choose from
- Some fees can be covered by insurance
- Availability of online counselling sessions
Cons
- Counselling schedule may depend on the availability of chosen counsellor
- Sliding scale rates apply to intern-therapists only
Customer Reviews
Capital Choice Counseling sessions and seminars work well to help clients deal with personal issues and educate themselves. Here are some positive reviews.
Thought-provoking and challenging lectures
“I have attended many of the lectures over the past few years and have always found them to be interesting and informative. They have challenged my thinking and better yet, they have provoked discussions with my spouse, friends or colleagues. I tend to «pick and choose» what lectures I attend. Some I go to because of my professional work as a Social Worker; others I go to because I am a wife and mother of six and YES, relationships do matter. I highly recommend these and have actually encouraged many friends and colleagues to attend. Each one of them has thanked me for sending them along. Well done.” —Joycehamelin
Workshops are helpful for professional advancement
“I am a grad student in the counselling program. I enjoyed Dr. Rovers’ couples workshop and am looking forward to attending more sessions to build my knowledge and skill base to use in my future practice!” —Lindsey Thomson
2. Ottawa Counseling and Mediation Services
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Services | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Operating hours | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Customer feedback | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
Ottawa Counseling and Mediation Services had earned its spot in the counselling industry because of the exceptional man behind it. Richard Haney has been enthusiastically providing counselling and mediation services for over three decades.
What we find remarkable about his service is the focus on healing and empowerment rather than being tied to “clinical” approaches. People who availed of his services felt that they can connect better with themselves and with others after their sessions with him.
This holistic approach works well in different issues. Richard has helped clients recover from some difficult life concerns such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), infidelity, co-dependency, substance abuse, only to name a few.
Another advantage in choosing Richard’s services is his qualification to appear in Ontario Courts as a Family Mediator- Arbitrator. He has more than 2,000 comprehensive mediations under his belt.
One downside is the slight inconvenience of securing an appointment with him because he only has weekdays for his practice. Also, one must book an appointment a week ahead of their preferred schedule.
There are instances, though, that Richard Haney can accommodate emergency appointments. Also, you may opt for counselling sessions by phone or online as these are part of his extended services.
Session fees are not reflected on the website of OCMS. This could discourage people who want to avail Richard’s services because they need to spend more time searching the internet to find his rates.
Pros
- Wide range of counselling services
- Accommodates emergency appointments
- Counselling sessions via phone or online available
Cons
- Has weekdays schedule only
- No other therapists on his staff
- Needs a week’s notice for appointments
- Details in their website need updating
Customer Reviews
Richard Haney’s professional yet compassionate approach had earned Ottawa Counseling and Mediation Services some amazing feedback. Here are some of them.
Empathic and encouraging yet very objective
“I appreciate Richard’s empathy and his kind and caring approach to helping my family and I through a difficult time. He is as objective as one can be, and he encourages us to work through our problems without blaming the other in the relationship. He has helped me take responsibility for my behaviour and my life and I am so grateful for this. I highly recommend him, but be prepared to be challenged- not to be coddled or told what you want to hear.” —Anonymous client
Provides healing and empowerment
“RICHARD’S OUTSTANDING PROFESSIONAL APPROACH IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Myself and my staff were grateful for Richard during a tough and negative time in our business. We found his counseling to be extremely helpful and appreciated. Richard’s approach that concentrates on healing and empowerment along with his listening made it exceptionally easy for myself and my staff to talk to. Richard was extremely professional in his approach and the environment he created. I would highly recommend Richard to anyone and everyone that needs someone to listen to or speak with. He is exceptionally good at what he does and the sense of feeling you get out of the counseling session is rewarding. ” —Peter Fabian
3. Elim Counseling Services
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Services | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Operating hours | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
| Customer feedback | ★★★★☆(4/5) |
The name Elim points to a place of rest, peace, and hope after a difficult time. This sense of tranquillity is the reason why some people choose to get the company’s counselling services.
Elim has less than 10 therapists in their company. Each one is equipped with different psychological techniques and interventions that can help address pressing issues of those who come to them for help.
Aside from using clinical approaches, what makes Elim different is the way they incorporate spiritual truths into their counselling. Their clients find this approach enlightening and transformative.
What we admire about Elim is their inclusiveness. Although they follow Christian counselling, they welcome people of different religions who want to avail of their services.
Another star that one can add to Elim’s name is the way they made counselling more affordable through a sliding scale rate. Fees vary based on one’s income and dependents.
One can also use insurance claims to cover the entire counselling fee or a portion of it. Elim meets the requirements of most insurance companies.
Pros
- Offer services at two locations in Ottawa
- Affordable counselling services through a sliding scale rate
- Some fees can be covered by insurance
Cons
- Half-day on Saturdays and closed on Sundays
- Did not mention about the availability of virtual counselling
Customer Reviews
Clients vouch how Elim helped them transform their lives. Here are some of the good things they have to say.
Affordable and great counselling
“I received great counselling at a time when I needed it most. I was able to work through my issues and go on to live a much healthier life based on truth. What I really appreciated was the sliding scale for the cost of the counselling which made it affordable and therefore possible for me to even go.” —Gioia Stover
Professional and caring staff
“Elim Counselling is excellent! With their help I’ve been able to overcome destructive patterns, have victory in my personal life and overall become a better version of myself. Michael and Denise are always professional, kind and caring. I highly recommend benefitting from their counselling services!” — Bianca Love
4. C & C Counselling Services
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Services | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Operating hours | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
| Customer feedback | ★★★☆☆(3/5) |
C & C Counselling Services offers five therapy approaches for their clients. These are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Existential Therapy, Impact Therapy, and Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy.
Using these counselling techniques allows C & C to address a wide range of mental health concerns. Clients come to them for help with personal block or motivation issues, caregiver burnout, unresolved childhood issues, and trauma or abuse, only to name a few.
Cheryl Grant is the main person behind C & C’s success. She believes in a strength-based approach to let people rediscover what they are capable of doing and promote resiliency.
You only need to wait for 48 hours or less to confirm a booking. But you should know that there are limited slots because C & C is closed for three days.
Their services are not covered by OHIP. However, one may use their insurance benefit plans to cover some of the costs.
Session rates are not given on C & C’s website. This could be an issue for people who want to compare prices with other counselling companies.
C & C could be right for you if you do not want to feel rushed. They accommodate additional time if the client wishes to extend their sessions.
They also have a solution if you find it hard to have face-to-face sessions. C & C offers virtual counselling.
Pros
- Wide range of therapy approaches
- Less waiting time to confirm a booking
- Services covered by insurance health plans
- Virtual counselling available
- Clients can request additional time
Cons
- Closed from Fridays to Sundays
- Details in their website need updating
Customer Reviews
Cheryl made some lasting impressions on her clients. Take a look at some of the positive reviews.
Sessions make me feel validated
“Cheryl is absolutely amazing. She is competent, experienced enough to help with my issues, does not appear overwhelmed by them and is extremely validating. From petty commentary to more serious issues, I always leave my sessions feeling lighter. In the two year since I have attended counselling I can see a great improvement in my overall mental health and ability to manage emotions, issues and life.” —Gil Egan
Genuine listener
“I have been seeing Cheryl on and off for the past two years, I believe through work. I absolutely love her, she is personable and professional without being “stiff”. She is an awesome person and she makes you feel like opening up. I recommend her to anyone who needs a genuine and nice person that really listens. Thanks for being there Cheryl. *Hugs*” —Severynne
5. Westboro Counselling & Psychotherapy: Rory Batchilder
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Services | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Prices | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
| Operating hours | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer feedback | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Westboro Counseling and Psychotherapy is a private practice by Rory Batchilder. His diverse background and qualifications allow him to work with a wide reach of clients.
He specializes in counselling couples, dealing with anger management, coaching for ADD/ ADHD cases, and supporting motor vehicle accident victims. His services, though, are not limited to these areas alone.
Rory believes in developing the inner Wise Self. His clients love how he recommends different resources such as books and online readings to help them with their concerns.
Even with the said tools, he still makes sure to create a safe and caring environment for his clients. People who availed of his services praise him for being consistent with his compassionate and non-judgmental approach to even the smallest matters.
Another plus point to him is that people can come to his office any day of the week. Most counsellors or therapists do not offer their services on some days, especially on the weekends.
One drawback is that his fees are on the higher end of the industry’s average rates. However, the said fees could be covered by insurance plans.
Pros
- Counselling services available all week
- Fees could be covered by insurance health plans
- Wide range of counselling services
- Has a plethora of books and online resources recommendations
Cons
- No other therapists on his staff
- Relatively expensive rates
Customer Reviews
Rory Batchilder has an excellent reputation for turning lives around for the better. Here are some testimonials from satisfied clients.
Goes beyond 5 stars
“Over the last couple of years, I’ve managed to steer my life out of a complete tailspin. I can guarantee that without the help and counselling I’ve received from Rory Batchilder, I would not be where I am today. Caring, compassionate and insightful. 6 stars.” — Kiln Bibson
Provides insightful guidance
“I saw Rory a bit over a year, and the change has been 180 degrees from where I started. I have always been keen on turning every rock to figure something out, yet you need someone to guide you were to look. Thanks for providing me with different places where to look , it allow me to find a solution that works for me. Thanks Rory for a great year.” —Adriana Garcia
6. Soul to Soul Counselling
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Services | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Prices | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Operating hours | ★★★★★(5/5) |
| Customer feedback | ★★★★★(5/5) |
Ambreen founded Soul to Soul Counselling with the goal of assisting women who are successful in their personal and professional lives, living by childhood conditioning, meeting external expectations and demands, sacrificing their own needs for others, and yet still feel unworthy, unsupported, unloved, and disconnected, even from themselves.
Over the years, she has honed a unique technique that connects with the deeper intelligence inside us and goes well beyond typical talk therapy to get to the bottom of any problem, whether in the area of family, personal relationships, work, health, or economics, and address it once and for all.
Soul to Soul Counselling combines the mind, body, and spirit to change what was once a crippling issue into a source of power and resource inside you. Her method is humanistic and comprehensive, connecting the person to her family system, ancestral heritage, and unique soul and spiritual light connected to the Absolute.
Pros
- Experienced therapists
- Transparent rates
- Provides a wide range of services
- Convenient location
Cons
- Closed on weekends
FAQs about Counselling Services in Ottawa
Knowing where to go for the best Ottawa counselling services could help you make big changes in your life.
Have you experienced a prime counselling service in Ottawa that we haven’t included in the list? If you answered yes, please send us a quick message so we can review it too.
Are you on the lookout for the best marriage counselling services in Ottawa? Here’s an article that could help you.