Quick answer: Most of the time...
In British Columbia, Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC), like myself a counsellor in Vancouver, are covered on many extended health benefit plans, however, this depends on your company’s specific plan.
Here are some insurance companies and their toll-free numbers:
Green Shield Canada: 1-888-711-1119
Pacific Blue Cross: 1-877-722-2583
Sun Life Financial: 1 (877) 786-5433
Manulife:1-800-268-6195
Desjardins: 1 (800) 224-7737
Speak to your human resources department or consult your benefits booklet, which contains the specifics of your company’s health plan to determine what kind of coverage you have. Ask if your insurance covers Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) or Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC).
You might even notice that you benefits package include coverage for psychotherapist or social workers. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC), I would be approved under these disciplines as well.
If you are having difficulty getting counselling covered, you can also use this template letter for insurance companies to send to your insurance provider as support for counselling therapy.
Stay strong,
Myriame