University life in Montreal can be an exciting and transformative experience, but it also comes with its fair share of stress. Between managing coursework, part-time jobs, relationships, and personal challenges, students often find themselves overwhelmed. Mental health support is essential, and thankfully, Montreal offers a wide range of therapy and counselling services tailored to students.

Whether you’re looking for on-campus counselling, affordable community services, or online therapy options, this guide will help you find the best resources available to Montreal students.

University Mental Health Services

Most Montreal universities offer mental health support through their student wellness centers. These services are often free or low-cost for students enrolled at the institution.

McGill University – Student Wellness Hub

McGill students can access various mental health services through the Student Wellness Hub. This includes individual therapy, group sessions, workshops, and crisis support.

• Cost: Free for students (some services may have fees).
• How to book: Appointments can be booked online or by phone.
• Additional resources: Peer support programs and mental health workshops.

Concordia University – Counselling & Psychological Services

‍Concordia students can receive professional counselling through the Health & Wellness Hub. Services include short-term therapy, group sessions, and mental health coaching.

• Cost: Free for enrolled students.
• How to book: Online booking is available through the Concordia Student Portal.
• Additional support: Crisis intervention and wellness coaching.

Université de Montréal, UQAM & Other Institutions

‍Students at Université de Montréal (UdeM), UQAM, and other local universities can access campus-based mental health support. Each university has its wellness center, offering counselling services, peer support, and emergency intervention for students in crisis.

Affordable & Free Community Therapy Options

‍If you need therapy but are not covered by university services, community-based organizations provide low-cost or even free mental health support.

‍Montreal Therapy Centre

‍The Montreal Therapy Centre is an excellent option for affordable therapy; the Montreal Therapy Centre offers services on a sliding income scale, individual counselling, couples therapy, and specialized support for anxiety and depression.

• Cost: Varies based on income, starting around $40 per session.
• How to book: An online intake form is available on their website.

Head & Hands–Free Therapy for Youth

‍If you’re under 25, Head & Hands provides free mental health counselling. This service is particularly helpful for students without insurance or those seeking an alternative to university services.

• Cost: Free for youth under 25.
• How to book: Contact their wellness team via phone or email.

CLSC Mental Health Services

‍Montreal’s CLSCs (local community health clinics) offer free psychological support for Quebec residents. You may qualify for free therapy sessions if you have a RAMQ health card. Services are in high demand, so expect longer wait times.

• Cost: Free with RAMQ coverage.
• How to book: Call your local CLSC to request an appointment.

AMI-Québec – Support Groups & Workshops

‍AMI-Québec provides free support groups for students struggling with anxiety, depression, or family mental health issues. These peer-led groups can be a great alternative to one-on-one therapy.

• Cost: Free for all participants.
• How to join: Sign up online for upcoming groups and workshops.

Online & Virtual Therapy Services

‍Online counselling is an excellent option for students who prefer remote therapy or need flexible scheduling.

‍BetterHelp & Talkspace

‍Both BetterHelp and Talkspace offer virtual therapy sessions with licensed professionals. These platforms allow users to connect with therapists via chat, phone, or video call.

• Cost: $60–$90 per session (some insurance plans cover it).
• Student discounts: Some schools offer partnerships with online therapy platforms, so check your university’s website.

Keep.meSAFE – Mental Health Support for Students

‍Many universities in Montreal offer Keep.meSAFE, a 24/7 mental health helpline for students. This service provides immediate crisis support and access to virtual counselling sessions.

• Cost: Free for students at participating universities.
• How to access: Check with your school to see if you’re covered.

Online Therapy Covered by RAMQ

‍If you have a RAMQ health card, you may be eligible for free virtual therapy through Quebec-based telehealth services. Some CLSCs and community health centers provide onlinecounsellingg for residents.

• Cost: Free with RAMQ.
• How to access: Contact your local CLSC or check Québec.ca for options.

Crisis Support & Immediate Help

‍If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, immediate help is available.

• Suicide Action Montreal – Call 1-866-277-3553 for 24/7 crisis support.
• Tel-jeunes (for youth under 20) – Call 1-800-263-2266 or text 514-600-1002 for free, anonymous help.
• Montreal General Hospital (Psychiatric Emergency) – Call 514-934-1934 for urgent psychiatric care.
• CLSC Crisis Walk-In Clinics – Find a location near you here.

How to Choose the Right Therapy Option‍

An exemplary therapy service can be overwhelming with so many options. Here are a few things to consider:

• Cost & Insurance Coverage: Check whether your student health plan covers therapy. Some services are free, while others charge a sliding-scale fee.
• Type of Therapy: Decide if you prefer individual, group, or online counselling.
• Urgency: If you need immediate support, crisis hotlines and CLSC services are the best options.
• Cultural & Language Preferences: Many services offer therapy in English and French, with some specializing in multicultural counselling.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone

‍Prioritizing your mental health is as crucial as taking care of your physical well-being. Montreal has plenty of student resources, whether you need long-term therapy, immediate crisis support, or just someone to talk to.If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to ask for help through your university, a community organization, or an online therapist. Remember, you’re not alone; support is available whenever needed.