How Do I Find the Right Therapist in Calgary?
Searching for a therapist in Calgary can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re not sure what kind of support you need or how to find someone who aligns with your goals and preferences. The good news is that Calgary has a wide range of therapists offering both in-person and online therapy, with many trained in evidence-based approaches and different areas of specialization. Whether you’re looking for therapy Downtown, in the Beltline, East Village, Sunnyside, Inglewood, Crescent Heights, Varsity, Acadia, Crescent Hills, or anywhere across the city, there are many options available to help you get started.
What Format of Therapy is Best for Me?
The right therapy format depends on what helps you feel comfortable, supported, and able to show up consistently. If face-to-face interactions help you feel more grounded, in-person therapy may feel more personal and connected. If flexibility, privacy, or being in your own space matters more, online or call-in therapy allows you to access support from anywhere in the province. Many therapists also offer a hybrid approach, giving you the option to combine both.
Where to Start When Looking for a Therapist
Calgary has many therapists with different specialties, backgrounds, and personalities. It’s completely normal not to know exactly what you’re looking for at the beginning. Starting with a few gentle reflection questions can help you understand your needs, goals, and preferences:
- What therapy styles or approaches resonate with you? (Not sure? You can explore different therapy types.)
- What qualities help you feel at ease with another person? (For example: warm and nurturing, direct and structured, adaptive, or energetic.)
- What do you hope to shift, understand, or heal? (Such as managing anxiety, navigating relationships, healing from trauma, or working on personal growth.)
Calgary has one of the most diverse mental health workforces in the country, but wait times vary depending on neighbourhood and therapy modality. Many people find the process easier when they have someone who understands the landscape and can help them navigate it.
How Layla Care Helps You Find a Therapist in Calgary
Layla simplifies the process of finding and connecting with a therapist who aligns with your needs. We support people across Calgary in finding a therapist who fits their goals and preferences, whether in-person or online, by guiding you through each step with care and clarity.
All therapists who work with Layla and serve clients in Calgary and the surrounding areas are regulated mental health professionals licensed to practice in Alberta. They may be registered with the College of Alberta Psychologists or the Alberta College of Social Workers.
When you reach out to Layla:
- You’ll start with a short intake form so we can understand what you’re hoping to work on.
- You’ll then connect with a Care Coordinator, a real person who listens, asks meaningful questions, and helps you clarify what you’re looking for.
- We’ll create a personalized match based on your goals, preferences, and availability.
We like to think of our Care Coordinators as companions in your first step, people who help make the process feel less overwhelming, more grounded, and tailored to you.
Why People Across Canada Choose Layla
Layla has supported more than 25,000 people on their mental health journeys and has helped deliver over 250,000 therapy sessions across Canada. Our community includes 500+ licensed therapists who practice in more than 27 languages, bringing experience, cultural understanding, and a range of specialties to their work.
Clients consistently share that they feel more hopeful and supported, with 92% reporting they feel better, and 9 out of 10 choosing to stay with their first match through Layla. Our therapists have an average of 10 years of clinical experience, and we now offer care in four provinces, including both online and in-person options where available.
Start with support that feels right for you
Taking the first step toward therapy is a big and meaningful decision, but finding support does not need to feel hard or complicated. Layla is here to help you move forward at a pace that feels comfortable, with support that aligns with who you are and what you need.
Whenever you’re ready, we’re here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy in Calgary
How much does therapy cost in Calgary?
Therapy fees in Alberta vary based on a therapist’s training, experience, and professional designation. In general, sessions with Alberta-registered mental health professionals range from $130 to $300 per session.
At Layla Care, we’re intentional about pricing. We offer fair, market-aligned rates that appropriately compensate our therapists, while also standardizing session fees so clients receive consistent, transparent pricing - without surprises.
To learn more about therapy costs and how Layla’s pricing works, visit our pricing page here
Is therapy in Calgary covered by insurance or workplace benefits?
Many extended health plans cover therapy with social workers or psychologists. Layla can help you understand what your plan may cover and match you with a therapist whose credentials align with your benefits.
How long does it usually take to see a therapist in Calgary?
Wait times vary widely across the city. Some neighbourhoods and therapy modalities have longer waits than others. Layla often offers intake calls in under 48 hours and first therapy sessions are booked on average in 1-2 weeks.
Is online therapy available for people living in Calgary?
Yes. Many therapists in Calgary offer virtual sessions, which can be helpful if you prefer flexibility or want to avoid commuting across the city.
Are Layla therapists licensed to practice in Alberta?
Yes. Therapists who work with Layla and serve clients in Calgary are licensed and regulated by Alberta’s professional colleges of Psychology or Social Work.
What qualifications should a therapist in Alberta have?
Psychotherapy is not yet regulated in Alberta so therapists may have a wide variety of qualifications. To work with Layla, therapists in Alberta must be registered with either the College of Alberta Psychologists or the Alberta College of Social Workers. In addition, Layla has a list of other qualifications, minimum experience, and therapists undergo a rigorous vetting process. For more information on our recruitment process, please visit our therapist page.
How do I find a culturally responsive therapist in Calgary?
Calgary is a diverse city, and many therapists offer culturally informed, identity-affirming, or community-aligned care. Layla can help match you with someone who understands your background and lived experience.
Are there therapists in Calgary who offer evening or weekend sessions?
Yes. Many Calgary-based therapists offer extended hours, especially for people who commute or work irregular schedules. Layla can help you find someone with the availability you’re looking for.
Do therapists in Calgary offer sliding scale or lower-cost options?
Unfortunately at this time we do not offer sliding scale or lower cost options in Alberta but you can see our list of external resources here.
Do I need a referral to start therapy in Calgary?
No referral is needed. You can begin the process by completing our intake form.
Can I meet with a therapist near my neighbourhood in Calgary?
Yes. While many people choose virtual therapy for convenience, there may be therapists offering in-person sessions in all four quadrants of the city, such as Downtown, in the Beltline, East Village, Sunnyside, Inglewood, Crescent Heights, Varsity, Acadia, Crescent Hills, and more. Layla can help you find someone in your preferred area.
