Affordable Counselling: Bridging the Gap for Emotional and Financial Support

The Need for Affordable Counselling

Mental health has become more of a priority in recent years, and that’s a good thing. But the reality is, for a lot of people, counselling still feels out of reach. Whether it’s the cost, the long waitlists, or simply not knowing where to start, many are left feeling like support isn’t available to them unless they can afford to pay private rates. That’s a problem.

I’ve been thinking about this for years. When I was a teenager, I went to counselling for the first time. I remember really wanting to talk—like really talk—about the things that were happening in my life. But instead, the counsellor had me go through a full family history during our first session. I get it now—sometimes that kind of structured intake is helpful, especially if a client doesn’t know where to begin. But at the time, I didn’t feel heard. What I really needed was space to share my story. That moment has stuck with me ever since.

It planted a seed. I always wanted to make counselling more accessible—especially for those who are struggling emotionally and financially. That’s what originally drew me to government and nonprofit work. I had this hope that if we could offer affordable, good-quality counselling through these systems, it could make a real difference. But as time went on, I found it harder and harder to work within systems that weren’t built to support that kind of flexibility and presence that I think therapy really needs.

So I shifted. I started offering affordable counselling through my interns, and it’s something I take very seriously. I supervise them closely—not just on theory and skills, but on listening well. I teach them to meet people where they’re at. Some clients come in ready to talk. Others don’t know where to begin. We cater therapy to what the client needs, not the other way around. It’s our way of keeping that door open for people who might not otherwise walk through it.

There are other barriers, too. Stigma still plays a role. Some people worry about what it means to ask for help. Others simply don’t know that affordable counselling exists. And when you finally do build up the courage to reach out, only to be met with a six-month waitlist or fees you can’t afford—it’s easy to give up. That’s why I believe so strongly in creating clear, reachable paths to support. We need to make it easier, not harder, for people to get help.

Affordable counselling doesn’t just help individuals—it supports families, workplaces, and whole communities. When people can access support early on, it prevents larger crises down the road. It also helps people stay on their feet financially. Nobody should have to choose between paying for groceries and getting the mental health support they need.

There are some great ways to access affordable counselling:

- Community mental health centres
- Nonprofit organizations
- University counselling programs (often with interns)
- Online therapy platforms

The Role of Online Therapy

Online therapy in particular has opened up new possibilities. It’s flexible, it’s more affordable in many cases, and it can take some of the pressure off—especially for those who feel nervous about walking into a counselling office. Sometimes, having the option to talk from home makes it easier to take that first step.

If you’re considering counselling but worried about the cost, you’re not alone. And there are options. My own practice is one of them. We offer low-cost sessions through our interns, and I personally supervise their work to ensure clients are getting thoughtful, ethical, and effective care.

This is something I believe in deeply—not just because of my own experience, but because I’ve seen how life-changing counselling can be when people are given the time, the space, and the right conditions to feel heard.

We need to keep pushing for a system where affordable counselling is not a bonus or a charity—but the norm. Everyone deserves the chance to work through their story, without having to carry the weight alone.

If you’re looking for support, feel free to reach out at [email protected]. We’ll do our best to meet you where you’re at.