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Virtual Counselling

Virtual counselling refers to mental health or psychological therapy sessions conducted remotely through secure online platforms, such as video calls, phone consultations, or messaging-based services. It allows individuals to access professional support from psychologists, social workers, psychotherapists, or counsellors without needing to attend appointments in person.

Health insurance plans increasingly recognize virtual counselling as an eligible expense under the paramedical or mental health category. Reimbursement typically follows the same rules as in-person therapy, covering a set percentage of costs up to a per-visit or annual maximum. Some plans require that the professional be licensed in the province where the client resides, even for virtual sessions.

Virtual counselling provides a convenient way to access therapy for anxiety, depression, stress management, grief, or workplace challenges, especially for people in remote areas or with mobility or scheduling barriers.

Example:

If your plan covers psychological services at 80 percent up to $1,000 per year, and you pay $150 for a virtual counselling session, your plan reimburses $120 and you pay $30.

What to Watch For:

Ensure that your provider’s credentials meet your insurer’s requirements, since some plans only reimburse sessions from licensed psychologists or registered clinical social workers. Confirm that the session is conducted through a secure and compliant platform, as unverified online counselling services may not qualify for reimbursement.

Related Terms

Benefit

A benefit is the specific financial protection or coverage provided under an insurance policy. In health and dental insurance, a benefit refers to the payment or reimbursement made by the insurer for eligible medical, dental, or wellness expenses. Each benefit category - such as prescription drugs, dental services, vision care, or physiotherapy - outlines what is covered, how much the insurer will pay, and any applicable limits or conditions.

Treatment

Treatment refers to any medical, dental, or therapeutic care provided by a licensed healthcare professional to diagnose, manage, or improve a health condition, injury, or disease. In the context of insurance, treatment includes all services, procedures, medications, and interventions that are deemed medically necessary to restore or maintain health. It can range from routine doctor visits and prescription drug use to surgery, rehabilitation, and specialized therapies.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is a type of coverage that helps pay for medical and healthcare expenses not fully covered by Canada’s public health system. It protects individuals and families from the high cost of prescription drugs, medical services, and treatments that fall outside provincial or territorial government health plans. Health insurance can be obtained through an employer’s group benefits plan or purchased individually from a private insurer.

Private Duty Nurse

A private duty nurse is a licensed nurse hired to provide one-on-one medical care to a patient in their home or hospital outside of standard public healthcare services. This specialized care is typically required for individuals recovering from surgery, managing chronic illness, or living with a serious medical condition that requires close monitoring or skilled nursing services. The nurse may perform duties such as administering medication, wound care, post-operative support, or palliative care under a physician’s supervision.

Dentist

A dentist is a licensed healthcare professional who diagnoses, treats, and helps prevent conditions affecting the teeth, gums, and mouth. Dentists play a key role in maintaining oral health through preventive care, restorative treatments, and patient education. Common services include cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions, and oral examinations.

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