In Canada only MD's are covered by public healthcare. That's why psychiatrists are covered, but the number who actually do therapy is seriously limited, and there's a real shortage.

Some GPs also do counselling, which is covered.

Psychologists, and social workers are not covered anywhere in Canada unless you have supplemental insurance for paramedical professionals, through work. This pisses me off. I see a psychologist for my primary therapy, which is why I'm shelling out big bucks for treatment.

My addictions Dr. does therapy and she's an MD so when I also see her it's covered. I've started seeing her more often since I've had to cut back on my psychologist visits. And if I have a long period when I can't see her, as sometimes happens, I can get a counselling session with one of the two addictions RN's at my hospital. They're both great and have training in addictions and counselling. Actually when i'm talking to my nurse Brenda, who also supervises my meds, I feel like I'm talking to my Mom. She's such a sweet lady.

--splitimage