Your first session with one of our Master’s-level intern counsellors is free. After that, individual counselling is $35 a session and couples counselling is $70, and you never have to show proof of income.
You can meet in person at our office on Fort Street in Victoria, at the Mill Bay Centre in Mill Bay, or online. Same-day sessions are available if you text us at 1-888-520-9151.
If cost is the reason you’ve put off counselling, this is the lowest-cost way to start with us.
Who our intern counsellors are
Our interns are in the final practicum of a Master of Counselling or Master of Social Work program. Each one meets with a licensed clinician on our team who reviews their cases, so there’s an experienced counsellor behind every session.
We take on a small number of students each year. We choose them for their academic standing, their interpersonal skill and how seriously they take client care.
Because their coursework is recent, interns bring current training in approaches like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and trauma-informed care. They also follow the same confidentiality and care standards as our licensed counsellors.
What intern counsellors can help with
Our interns see individuals aged 13 and up, as well as couples. People most often come to them for stress and anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship and communication problems, grief and trauma.
Teens can work with an intern too. Our youth counselling page explains how sessions work for 13 to 18 year olds and their parents.
When a licensed counsellor may be a better fit
If you’re in crisis, managing a complex diagnosis, or coming back to something that past therapy didn’t shift, we may suggest a licensed counsellor ($150 an hour and up) or a counsellor awaiting registration ($100 an hour). We’ll talk it through with you on a free 20-minute consult.
Planning to claim through extended health benefits? Many plans reimburse only registered counsellors (RCC, RSW or CCC), so check your plan or see how our direct billing works first. All three rates are explained on our Choose What You Pay page.
Meet our intern counsellors
Each profile covers who the counsellor works with and how they approach sessions. Pick someone whose style appeals to you, or let us match you.
Amanda
Ashley
Bridget
Candice
Carl
Céline
Chanelle
Cleia
JeromeHow to book your free first session
- Choose a counsellor from the list above, or answer a few questions to get matched with someone who suits your needs.
- Book online and pick in person or online.
- Want to be seen today? Text 1-888-520-9151 and we’ll look for a same-day opening.
Still unsure whether an intern is right for you? Book a free 20-minute consult and we’ll help you decide. You can also switch counsellors, or move between rate tiers, whenever your needs or budget change.
Questions about low-cost counselling in Victoria
Is the first session really free?
Yes. Your first full session with an intern counsellor costs nothing. After that, individual sessions are $35 and couples sessions are $70.
Do I need to prove my income?
No. You choose the rate that fits your budget, and we never ask for proof of income.
Who can see an intern counsellor?
Anyone aged 13 and up, and couples (certain interns).
Can I see an intern online?
Yes. Interns see clients in our Victoria and Mill Bay offices and online by video or phone.
Will my insurance cover sessions with an intern?
It depends on your plan. Many extended health plans reimburse only registered counsellors, so ask your provider before you book. We can help you check.
What if my counsellor isn’t the right fit?
Tell us and we’ll help you switch. Some clients start with an intern and later move to a licensed counsellor, and some do the reverse.
Book your free session
Your first session with an intern counsellor is free, and every session after is $35 for individuals or $70 for couples.
Book online now Text for a same-day session
Or email admin@strengthinheart.ca.
If you need help right now
We can’t always reply to messages right away. If you’re in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8, the Suicide Crisis Helpline, at any time. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency department.
