Free and Low-Cost Counselling in Edmonton: NIHB, IFHP and Sliding Scale Options

Cost is one of the most common reasons people put off counselling. In Edmonton there are several ways to make it free or affordable. Eligible First Nations and Inuit people can receive counselling at no cost through the federal Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program. Eligible refugees and refugee claimants can use the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). Many private practices, including Disha, offer a sliding scale for people with a low income, no insurance or financial hardship. Workplace benefits and Employee and Family Assistance Programs cover counselling for many others.

Free counselling through NIHB

The Non-Insured Health Benefits program is a federal program that covers some health services for eligible First Nations and Inuit people, including mental health counselling.

• Who qualifies: registered First Nations people with a status card, and Inuit recognized by an Inuit land claim organization, who meet program requirements.
• How it works: you see an NIHB-registered provider. The provider confirms eligibility and approval, then bills NIHB directly.
• Cost to you: at Disha, nothing. We bill NIHB and the program reimburses us. There is no additional fee or top-up.

Our guide to NIHB mental health counselling in Alberta explains the steps, and our Indigenous counselling page describes how we work.

Free counselling through IFHP

The Interim Federal Health Program provides temporary health coverage for resettled refugees, refugee claimants and some other groups who are not yet covered by provincial health insurance.

• Who qualifies: people with active IFHP coverage, usually shown on an IFHP certificate or Refugee Protection Claimant Document.
• How it works: we confirm your coverage and bill the program directly.
• Cost to you: no fee for covered sessions.

See free counselling in Alberta through NIHB and IFHP for details, or our immigrant and newcomer counselling service.

Sliding scale fees

A sliding scale means the session fee is reduced based on what you can afford. At Disha, it is available to people who:

• Have a low income
• Have no insurance coverage for counselling
• Are going through financial hardship, such as job loss, separation or a family emergency

Fees are decided case by case in a short, confidential conversation. You do not need to prove hardship in detail to ask. Read more on our affordable counselling page.

Insurance and workplace programs

• Extended health benefits: many workplace, union and student plans cover counselling with a Registered Social Worker or Registered Clinical Social Worker, up to an annual limit. We direct bill many providers. See is counselling covered by insurance in Alberta?
• Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAPs): many employers offer a set number of free, confidential sessions.
• Health spending accounts: may reimburse counselling if your plan allows.
• Motor vehicle accident claims: counselling after a crash may be covered through your auto insurer.

Other low-cost options in Edmonton

• Group therapy is usually less expensive than individual sessions. See our groups.
• Community agencies and walk-in counselling may offer free or low-cost sessions, sometimes with waitlists.
• 211 Alberta (call or text 211) can connect you with free community programs.
• Alberta Health Services offers addiction and mental health services. Access 24/7 can be reached at 780-424-2424 for urgent adult mental health and addiction concerns in the Edmonton zone.

How to ask about cost without feeling awkward

It is completely normal to ask. You might say: “I would like to start counselling but I am worried about the cost. What options do you have?” A good practice will explain fees clearly before your first session and help you find the most affordable path.

Frequently asked questions

Is counselling free in Alberta?

Private counselling is not covered by Alberta Health Care. It can be free through NIHB for eligible First Nations and Inuit clients, IFHP for eligible refugee claimants, or an Employee and Family Assistance Program.

Do I pay anything if I use NIHB at Disha?

No. If you are eligible and approved, we bill NIHB directly and the program reimburses us. There is no additional fee charged to you.

Who can use the sliding scale?

People with a low income, no insurance coverage or who are facing financial hardship. Each request is considered case by case.

Can refugee claimants get free counselling in Edmonton?

Yes, if they have active IFHP coverage. Bring your IFHP certificate or Refugee Protection Claimant Document so we can confirm coverage.

Is group therapy cheaper than individual counselling?

Usually, yes. Group sessions are often more affordable, and many people find the shared support helpful.

Reviewed by Mukesh Mishra, MSW, RCSW, Registered Clinical Social Worker and ACSW-approved RCSW supervisor at Disha Counselling & Wellness Centre. This article is general information and is not a substitute for individual professional advice.