Counsellors and Registered Psychologists, although both practitioners in psychological healing, have several differences including recognition by insurance companies. Registered Psychologists in Alberta have been recognized by insurance companies due to their official registration to the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP). This college ensures safety to the public by having their members meet specific criteria and qualify them under the protected name of "Registered Psychologist".
Counselling on its own is not a protected name right now and is not bound by a formal college (as of yet). The Association of Counselling Therapy of Alberta (ACTA) is in the works of finishing the final steps of opening the College of Counselling Therapy of Alberta (CCTA). This opening of the CCTA will provide the same safety to the public and protect the professions of Counselling Therapy, Addictions Counselling, and Child and Youth Care Counselling. Many counsellors in Alberta await the official opening of the CCTA to gain full recognition by insurance companies.
Meanwhile in the counselling profession, the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) has enabled members to go through a process to become Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC). This is a designation that is protected and which many insurance companies are currently recognizing and giving either full or partial coverage.
Below is a list of the current insurance companies within Canada that cover counselling services provided by a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC):
- Green Shield, Equitable Life of Canada, Pacific Blue Cross, and ClaimSecure (all have full coverage)
- Sun Life, Manulife, Alberta Blue Cross, and Great West Life (may have some coverage depending on your plan)
Reviving Waves Counselling Therapy is one of many counselling services that is provided by a Canadian Certified Counsellor. Please ask your insurance provider if you are eligible for services provided by a Canadian Certified Counsellor. You may be eligible and can receive further savings with the already reduced rates at Reviving Waves Counselling Therapy. To book an appointment visit www.revivingwaves.ca/book
Sources:
www.acta-alberta.ca
www.cap.ab.ca
www.ccpa-accp.ca/membership/certification/
www.thriveteens.ca/insurance
Joanne Robertson
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