Mental Health Support Options

Counselling and Clinical Services (CCS) is currently experiencing high demand, which means appointments may be limited. We know it can be difficult to wait for help, and we want to make sure you can connect with support as soon as you need it.

To help you explore options that may be available right away, we’ve gathered a list of trusted community and campus resources. Many students find that these services offer flexible and effective support alongside—or instead of—CCS appointments.

Your support options:

Insurance coverage for community services

All students who have opted into the U of A Students’ Union insurance plan have $800 of coverage for professional services in the community, like a psychologist or social worker. Additionally, you may be covered for more mental health services through a parent’s or partner’s insurance plan. To find a practitioner in your area, you can use the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta referral service or explore listings in Psychology Today. The UASU insurance plan also includes a listing of lower-cost professionals in the community.

Free online mental health support

Undergraduate students and their dependents have access to free online mental health support through EMPOWER ME.

Graduate Student Assistance Plan

Graduate students have access to mental health services through the Graduate Student Assistance Plan, provided by Homewood Health.

Sliding scale and reduced cost counselling

Our referral guideincludes lower-cost community agencies that can support your mental health.