Getting started
Where can I find anxiety therapy in Mississauga?
Collaborative Therapy is a Registered Psychotherapy clinic in Mississauga (near Square One, at 4255 Sherwoodtowne Blvd, Unit 3-14) that works with adults and teens experiencing anxiety - including generalized, social, and work-related anxiety. Sessions are available in person and online across Ontario, with evening and weekend options.
Is Collaborative Therapy accepting new clients?
Yes. We welcome new adult and teen clients in Mississauga and online across Ontario, with no waitlist and no doctor referral required. You can book a free 15-minute consultation to get started.
Do I need a doctor's referral to see a psychotherapist in Ontario?
No. You can book directly with a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario without a doctor's referral. You can start with a free 15-minute consultation. (The only exception is if your specific benefits plan asks for one before reimbursing, so it is worth a quick check of your plan.)
How do I choose the right therapist?
Look for someone licensed (in Ontario, a Registered Psychotherapist or psychologist), experienced with your concern, and a good personal fit. We offer a short Find Your Therapist matching quiz and a free 15-minute consultation to help you decide.
How do I get started?
You can contact us by phone or email to book, or take our free Find Your Therapist quiz. We offer a free 15-minute consultation so you can meet a therapist and ask questions before committing.
Do you offer evening or weekend therapy appointments?
Yes. We offer daytime, evening, and weekend appointments, both in person in Mississauga and online across Ontario.
Are virtual sessions available?
Yes. We offer virtual therapy sessions across Ontario for those who prefer the convenience of meeting from home - just let us know your preference when booking.
Is there a Polish-speaking therapist in Mississauga?
Yes. We offer psychotherapy in Polish, as well as English, Hindi, and Gujarati. Polish-speaking sessions are available in person in Mississauga or online anywhere in Ontario.
Cost & insurance
How much does therapy cost, and do you offer sliding-scale fees?
Our individual sessions are $180, and couples and family sessions are $190. We also keep a limited number of sliding-scale spots - ask during your free 15-minute consultation and we will talk through the options that work for you.
Does my insurance or benefits plan cover therapy?
Most extended health benefit plans cover psychotherapy with a Registered Psychotherapist, though the amount and the provider types they cover vary by plan. It is worth checking your plan for Registered Psychotherapist or psychotherapy coverage and your annual maximum. We provide a receipt after each session that you can submit to your insurer. (More detail here:
Does insurance cover therapy in Ontario?)
Is psychotherapy covered by OHIP in Ontario?
Psychotherapy provided by a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) is not covered by OHIP. OHIP only covers mental health care delivered by a physician or psychiatrist. The good news is that sessions with an RP are usually covered by extended health benefit plans, and the fees can also be claimed as a medical expense on your taxes.
Can I claim therapy on my taxes?
Yes. Fees paid to a Registered Psychotherapist are an eligible medical expense with the Canada Revenue Agency, so you may be able to claim them on your tax return even if they are not covered by insurance. Just keep your session receipts.
Therapy & credentials
What is the difference between a Registered Psychotherapist, a psychologist, and a psychiatrist?
All three support mental health, but their training and scope differ. A Registered Psychotherapist (RP) provides talk therapy and is regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. A psychologist holds a doctoral degree and can provide therapy as well as conduct formal psychological assessments and diagnoses. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose and prescribe medication, and is covered by OHIP. Many people see an RP for ongoing therapy and a physician or psychiatrist for medication if it is needed.
What is the difference between a counsellor and a psychotherapist?
Counsellor is a general term that is not a protected title in Ontario, so anyone can use it. Registered Psychotherapist is a regulated title - it requires graduate-level education, supervised clinical training, and registration with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, which sets standards for ethics, confidentiality, and competence. All of our therapists are Registered Psychotherapists.
Which type of therapy is right for me: CBT, DBT, EFT, or IFS?
There is no single right approach for everyone - the best fit depends on your goals. CBT and DBT focus on practical skills for anxiety, depression, and managing emotions; EFT works with emotions and relationship patterns; and IFS explores the different parts of you and is often used with trauma. We will help match you with the approach and therapist that suit you, and adjust as we go.
What kind of therapy helps with childhood trauma?
Approaches often used for complex or childhood trauma include Internal Family Systems (IFS), trauma-informed therapy, and EFT. We specialize in complex childhood trauma - including for people who do not necessarily think of their experiences as trauma - using IFS and other evidence-based modalities.
What type of therapy is best for teenagers?
The best therapy depends on the teen's needs. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), talk therapy, and family therapy are commonly used and effective for anxiety, depression, and stress.
Your sessions
What can I expect during my first session?
In your first session, we discuss your background, concerns, and what you hope to achieve in therapy. It is also a time for you to ask questions and see whether the therapeutic relationship feels like a good fit.
How long does therapy typically take?
The duration varies for each person and depends on your needs and goals. Some people find relief in just a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If you are feeling overwhelmed by emotions, facing life challenges, or seeking personal growth, therapy can provide supportive guidance. It is always okay to reach out for help.
What if I feel uncomfortable discussing certain topics?
It is completely normal to feel hesitant about certain subjects. You are in control of what you share, and your comfort is our priority. We work at a pace that feels right for you.
What should I do if I need immediate help?
If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, please reach out right away. Call 911 for emergencies, or contact the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline (call or text 988) for free, 24/7 support across Canada.
Still have questions?
Call us at (905) 431-9226 or email info@cbtherapy.ca - we are happy to help.
