Virtuous Circle Counselling Alternatives: 9 Best Calgary Clinics Reviewed & Compared
Rod Mitchell, MSc, MC, Registered Psychologist
Finding the right therapist can make a real difference in your mental health treatment. While Virtuous Circle Counselling offers therapy services in Calgary, you might need different specializations, pricing, or availability than they provide.
This guide compares 9 Calgary counselling clinics to help you make an informed choice. We'll cover what each clinic does differently so you can find the best match for your needs and budget.
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Best Virtuous Circle Counselling Alternatives
Every counselling clinic has its own approach, pricing structure, and areas of expertise. What works well for one person might not be the right fit for another.
You might need an alternative to Virtuous Circle Counselling if their services don't match your specific needs. The right clinic depends on several key factors:
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Cost & Insurance | Some clinics offer sliding scale fees or direct billing to more insurers |
| Wait Times | Availability ranges from same-day appointments to several week waiting lists |
| Specializations | Not every therapist treats conditions like ADHD, trauma, or eating disorders |
| Therapy Types | Specific approaches like EMDR, DBT, or somatic therapy aren't available everywhere |
| Schedule Flexibility | Evening and weekend hours vary significantly between clinics |
| Location Options | Some offer multiple locations, online therapy, or home visits |
The therapy approach itself might be your deciding factor. You may want evidence-based treatments that not every clinic provides. Or you might prefer an integrated approach that treats both mental and physical health together.
Some people need immediate help, while others can wait for the right specialist. Your insurance coverage, work schedule, and comfort with online therapy all influence which clinic serves you best.
The following sections examine Calgary counselling clinics that excel in different areas. Each comparison focuses on practical differences like fees, wait times, specializations, and what makes that particular clinic stand out from Virtuous Circle Counselling.
1. Emotions Therapy Calgary
💰 $180-235/session | 📅 No wait list | 👥 Specialized psychologists | 🏠 Online + In-person | 📞 587-577-4982
What Makes Them Different
The only Calgary clinic specializing in emotions as messengers, not problems.
While other clinics focus on symptom management, Emotions Therapy Calgary teaches you to decode what anger, anxiety, or grief are actually telling you. They address root causes using advanced neuroscience techniques like EMDR and somatic therapy that create real neural change.
Who They Serve Best
| ✓ Best For | ✗ Not Ideal For |
|---|---|
| People whose emotions feel out of control | Families needing multiple therapists (only 3 on staff) |
| Trauma survivors who haven't found relief elsewhere | Those seeking general life coaching |
| Those wanting body-centered therapy, not just talk | People needing weekend appointments |
| Clients needing intensive or flexible pacing | Clients wanting sliding scale fees |
| Anyone feeling disconnected from their body | Those preferring large clinic environments |
What Clients Say
"Helped me grow as a professional and be a better person."
"The best therapist I have ever used."
"Professional, reliable, compassionate. Easy to speak to and non-judgmental."
"I would refer a family member in a heartbeat!"
Insurance & Fees
Direct billing available for most extended health plans, EAP programs, and NIHB for First Nations and Métis clients. The cost is $235 per 50-minute session with a psychologist, with sliding scale options. They offer a free 20-minute consultation to verify your insurance coverage and ensure fit before you commit.
2. Cultivate Counselling
💰 Pay what you can | 📅 Flexible availability | 👥 Founded 2014 | 🏠 Online + In-person | 📞 403-612-1903
What Makes Them Different
The only Calgary clinic where every therapist offers true pay-what-you-can pricing.
Since 2019, Cultivate Counselling has provided more than $2 million in subsidized services. Unlike other sliding scale clinics, they don't require proof of income - they trust clients to be honest about what they can afford. While they ask for a minimum $10 session fee, they keep spaces available for clients who need a $0 fee.
Who They Serve Best
| ✓ Best For | ✗ Not Ideal For |
|---|---|
| People without insurance or limited finances | Those wanting immediate crisis intervention |
| Clients needing extreme schedule flexibility (6am-11pm, 7 days) | People preferring large, established clinics |
| Neurodivergent individuals seeking affirming care | Those needing psychiatry or medication management |
| 2SLGBTQ+ community members | Clients wanting only senior-level psychologists |
| Those needing services in languages beyond English | People uncomfortable with self-determining their fee |
What Clients Say
"A harbor in the storm. This place and the people who work here are like a beacon of light."
"This should be the template for mental health services across the country."
"They do not shame you or make you feel guilty if you cannot afford the full price and they make sure, no matter what, you get the help you need."
"I found an amazing therapist who I am able to see as often or as little as I need, and with a sliding scale I know it's always accessible to me."
"If you are hesitant about signing up at Cultivate this is your sign to do it! They are ethical, efficient, thorough."
Insurance & Fees
Every team member participates in the Pay What You Can program with up to 25% of their caseload available to clients unable to afford their minimum fee . Standard rates follow the Alberta Psychologists' Association recommendations ($235 for a 50-minute session ), but you decide what you can pay. No session caps, no lengthy forms to prove low-income status, no doctor-approved notes, and no judgment . They also offer services in Spanish, Punjabi, Russian, Yoruba, Urdu, Hindi, and Arabic.
3. Calgary Counselling and Psychology Centre
💰 $180-220/session | 📅 Evenings + weekends | 👥 South Calgary location | 🏠 Online + In-person | 📞 403-910-6643
What Makes Them Different
One of Calgary's most inclusive practices, offering therapy across Canada.
The Calgary Counselling and Psychology Centre celebrates humanity in all its forms and is accepting of all ethnicities, genders, cultures, abilities, and religions. Unlike most Calgary clinics that only serve Alberta, they provide online counselling from anywhere in Canada. They've also extended services to include Arabic-speaking therapists and offer free parking at their South Calgary offices.
Who They Serve Best
| ✓ Best For | ✗ Not Ideal For |
|---|---|
| People seeking identity support or LGBTQ+ affirming care | Children under 14 (they serve teens 14+) |
| Clients needing evening or weekend appointments | Those needing guaranteed sliding scale (case-by-case only) |
| Canadians outside Alberta wanting online therapy | People without credit cards (required on file) |
| Those wanting trauma-informed or somatic therapy | Clients needing immediate crisis intervention |
| Couples seeking relationship counselling | Those wanting north Calgary locations |
What Clients Say
"Her empathy and compassion in our sessions leave me feeling safe, supported and heard."
"Now I look forward to my sessions, because I know I will be safe and receive genuine help in my struggles."
Insurance & Fees
Counselling fees are $220 per 50-minute session with Registered Psychologists, $200 with Registered Provisional Psychologists, and $180 with Canadian Certified Counsellors. EMDR sessions (80 minutes) cost $330. Sliding scale fees may be offered on a case-by-case basis. They offer complimentary 15-minute consults to ensure fit before starting. Direct billing available for select insurers.
4. Calgary Counselling Centre
💰 Sliding scale | 📅 No wait list | 👥 60+ years serving Calgary | 🏠 Online + In-person | 📞 833-827-4229
What Makes Them Different
Calgary's most accessible mental health service with true sliding scale pricing.
Unlike fixed-fee clinics, the Calgary Counselling Centre uses a genuine sliding scale based on your income. In 2024, 61% of their 7,474 clients received subsidies, with the largest group paying only $8 per session . They haven't had a wait list in over 20 years and offer both individual and group counselling.
Who They Serve Best
| ✓ Best For | ✗ Not Ideal For |
|---|---|
| People who can't afford traditional therapy rates | Those wanting a specific therapist or specialized treatment |
| Anyone needing immediate help (no wait list) | Clients seeking long-term therapy (average is 8-10 sessions) |
| Clients who benefit from group support | People uncomfortable with Feedback-Informed Treatment tracking |
| Youth aged 12-25 (71% receive subsidies) | Those needing specialized trauma therapies like EMDR |
| Victims of crime or those with NIHB coverage | Clients wanting consistent weekend availability |
What Clients Say
"I'm happier now. Counselling has given me what I needed."
"I realized that I'm pretty strong. I'm a lot stronger than I gave myself credit for."
"Counselling helped me recognize my limits and needs, and I was able to set boundaries."
"To have a group of people push you up, it's such a different feeling. It feels so good."
"Treating yourself with the same compassion that you treat others is life-changing."
Insurance & Fees
Fees are based on a sliding scale according to your income, which means you only pay what you can afford. Rates can be as low as $8 per session for those with limited income. They're a registered provider for Victims of Crime counselling and accept NIHB for First Nations and Inuit clients. If you think the quoted fee is too high, you can discuss it at your first session. Appointments are available on weekdays, evenings, and Saturdays.
5. Calgary Therapy Institute
💰 $220-250/hour | 📅 Evenings + weekends | 👥 Lake Bonavista location | 🏠 Online + In-person | 📞 403-640-7667
What Makes Them Different
PhD-level expertise with exceptional flexibility for complex family and assessment needs.
Dr. Patricia Miller, founder of the Calgary Therapy Institute, brings 25 years of clinical practice experience and multiple advanced degrees including a PhD in Behavioural and Social Sciences. The institute offers comprehensive assessments including psychoeducational, neuropsychological, autism, ADHD, and capacity assessments.
Who They Serve Best
| ✓ Best For | ✗ Not Ideal For |
|---|---|
| Families needing comprehensive psychological assessments | Those seeking budget or sliding-scale options |
| High-conflict divorced parents needing mediation | People wanting multiple location options |
| Indigenous and multicultural families | Clients outside southeast Calgary area |
| Complex cases needing PhD-level expertise | Those needing direct billing beyond NIHB/Veterans/WCB |
| People needing evening or weekend appointments | Clients wanting a large team to choose from |
What Clients Say
"The booking staff are so gentle and accommodating. They really go the extra mile to make sure you have the best support person assigned."
"There is not a single more welcoming and safe place for growth. I could not recommend a better place for all your mental health needs."
"This establishment understands ASD, FASD, effects of trauma and adoption within multicultural families extremely well."
"She has appointments in the evening and on weekends which is SO helpful for our family!"
Insurance & Fees
Registered Psychologists charge $240/hour for individual, couple, and family therapy/assessments. Counsellors, Registered Social Workers and Registered Provisional Psychologists charge $220/hour. They provide direct billing for NIHB, Veterans Affairs, and WCB clients; otherwise, detailed receipts are provided for insurance claims. Most sessions are 50 minutes, with some 80-minute appointments available. Assessments are typically 2 hours.
6. Master's Counselling Calgary
💰 Affordable options | 📅 Flexible scheduling | 👥 20+ years serving Calgary | 🏠 Online + In-person | 📞 403-253-7135
What Makes Them Different
A holistic counselling practice focusing on emotional, spiritual, and intellectual wellness.
For over 20 years, the Master's Counselling team has created a safe place for Calgarians to process thoughts, explore feelings and release their full potential. Their approach emphasizes inspiring and supporting wellness in the total person: emotional, spiritual, and intellectual, with options for Christian counselling available.
Who They Serve Best
| ✓ Best For | ✗ Not Ideal For |
|---|---|
| People seeking faith-based or spiritual counselling | Those wanting only secular therapy approaches |
| Couples needing relationship counselling | Clients uncomfortable with less experienced practicum students |
| Men seeking male counsellors for emotional awareness | Those needing specialized trauma treatments |
| Clients wanting affordable options through practicum therapists | People requiring immediate crisis intervention |
| Those preferring a holistic wellness approach | Clients seeking only evidence-based clinical approaches |
What Clients Say
"Every session has been so valuable, and we are very grateful for the growth we've had here. Daniel has also really strengthened our ability to process life outside of the counseling walls."
"The office space and the staff are welcoming, and the counsellors have been incredibly helpful and professional. A lot of wisdom and expertise from experienced staff."
"Excellent and professional team. I'm grateful for the genuine compassion and care I've received from the staff. I always felt like a priority in all my interactions."
"Randy has challenged us both so that we've drawn nearer to each other in our marriage. I recommend to anyone going through a crisis or regular relationship maintenance."
Insurance & Fees
Master's Counselling offers affordable therapy through practicum therapists at discount rates. They also have experienced Registered Psychologists and Registered Professional Counsellors at the standard rate of $235 per 50 minute session. The practice accepts most major insurance plans.
7. Calgary Therapy Services
💰 $235/session | 📅 8am-8pm weekdays | 👥 Mission location | 🏠 Online + In-person | 📞 587-600-7999
What Makes Them Different
A client-focused practice with exceptional flexibility and accommodation.
Calgary Therapy Services stands out for their hands-on approach and commitment to client care. They offer free parking in Mission and provide both in-person and virtual sessions, with therapists who specialize in attachment-based and trauma-informed approaches. The owner, Amber Brodziak, has 18 years of experience in counselling and mental health and maintains an active role in the practice.
Who They Serve Best
| ✓ Best For | ✗ Not Ideal For |
|---|---|
| People wanting flexible scheduling (daytime, evenings, weekends) | Those needing sliding scale fees |
| Clients preferring in-person or virtual options | People without 24-hour cancellation notice ability |
| Those seeking attachment-based or Gottman Method therapy | Clients wanting direct insurance billing |
| Families needing child/adolescent specialists | Those outside Mission area without transportation |
| Workplace mental health and corporate clients | People needing immediate crisis support |
What Clients Say
"Making appointments is simple and quick, and having the option to have either virtual or in person sessions is very convenient."
"There are a few different therapists here and they are encouraging of clients to try someone else if they are not the right fit for you."
Insurance & Fees
Calgary Therapy Services rate is $235 per 50 minute session. Sessions are available for individuals, couples, and families. Appointments canceled with less than 24 hours notice are subject to a 60% session fee, while missed sessions are charged in full. Contact them directly about insurance coverage and payment options.
8. Living Well Counselling Services
💰 $180-245/session | 📅 8am-9pm daily | 👥 Founded 2008 | 🏠 Online + In-person | 📞 403-695-7911
What Makes Them Different
One of Calgary's most experienced clinics with therapists having up to 25 years experience.
Living Well Counselling Services therapists have Master's level training with 1800+ hours up to 25 years of direct client experience . They've extended to offering therapy to clients worldwide through online services, and specialize in advanced trauma therapies including EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
Who They Serve Best
| ✓ Best For | ✗ Not Ideal For |
|---|---|
| People seeking experienced senior therapists | Those needing direct insurance billing |
| Clients wanting EMDR or trauma therapy | People with rapid mood changes (phone therapy not recommended) |
| Those needing multiple location options (4 Calgary offices) | Clients without upfront payment ability |
| International clients seeking online therapy | Those wanting the lowest possible rates |
| People preferring phone or video sessions | Clients uncomfortable with home office settings (some locations) |
What Clients Say
"I can't thank Emily enough for the support she has given me. From our very first appointment, she created such a welcoming and understanding space where I felt truly heard."
"My experience has been transforming and incredibly beneficial. Carrie Gibson immediately made me feel at ease discussing my issues."
"Aziza is an incredible therapist. She is warm, kind, and genuinely compassionate. She creates a safe and supportive space where I feel heard and understood."
"Jennifer Watts has helped me navigate so many life challenges and struggles! I would highly recommend Living Well Counselling if you are looking for someone you can trust and who truly cares!"
Insurance & Fees
Living Well offers tiered pricing based on therapist credentials: Senior Registered Psychologists and Social Workers ($245+/60 min), Senior Clinical Counsellors ($220+/60 min), Registered Psychologists and Social Workers ($220-235/60 min), Registered Provisional Psychologists ($200-220/60 min), and Clinical Counsellors ($180-210/60 min).
They offer a free initial consultation to ensure fit. Unfortunately, they do not offer direct billing at this time - payment is required upfront with receipts provided for insurance reimbursement. Most plans cover Registered Psychologists and Social Workers, with some covering Certified Counsellors.
9. Calgary Institute of Counselling
💰 $235/session | 📅 No waitlist | 👥 16 therapists | 🏠 Online + In-person | 📞 587-350-8843
What Makes Them Different
Community-focused practice with two convenient locations and exceptional online booking system.
The Calgary Institute of Counselling offers no waitlist for new clients with locations in both North and South Calgary. Their user-friendly website makes booking, viewing appointments, and rescheduling simple, plus they have free, accessible parking at both locations.
Who They Serve Best
| ✓ Best For | ✗ Not Ideal For |
|---|---|
| People wanting immediate access (no waitlist) | Those needing sliding scale or reduced fees |
| Clients seeking EMDR or trauma-informed therapy | People wanting direct billing beyond Blue Cross |
| Those needing convenient north or south locations | Clients preferring very low-cost options |
| People who value easy online booking systems | Those needing therapists outside standard hours |
| Couples wanting group therapy options | People uncomfortable with 48-hour cancellation policy |
What Clients Say
"I was absolutely blown away by my first session! I cannot say enough good things about the quality of care I received at this facility."
"Their website makes it super easy to book, view upcoming appointments, and reschedule."
"I drive across the city specifically because of the professional and highly personalized care I receive."
"What sets Calgary Institute of Counselling apart is their genuine care and compassion for their clients."
"It'll be the best investment in yourself you've likely made in a long time."
Insurance & Fees
The Calgary Institute of Counselling adheres to the Psychologists' Association of Alberta guidelines, which recommends $235 per 50-minute session. Group therapy is $110/person or $220/couple, versus $235 for couples counselling with a psychologist. They offer direct billing with Blue Cross. Cancellations within 48 hours incur half the session fee, within 24 hours the full fee.
Making Your Choice of Counselling Clinic: Next Steps
Choosing the right counselling clinic is a personal decision that depends on your unique circumstances. Here's how to move forward:
Quick Reference Guide
| If You Need... | Consider These Clinics |
|---|---|
| Lowest Cost Options | Cultivate Counselling (pay what you can), Calgary Counselling Centre ($8+ sliding scale) |
| No Wait Time | Emotions Therapy Calgary, Calgary Counselling Centre, Calgary Institute of Counselling |
| Evening/Weekend Hours | Cultivate Counselling, Calgary Therapy Institute, Calgary Therapy Services |
| Specialized Therapy | Emotions Therapy Calgary, Living Well Counselling |
| Family/Child Services | Calgary Therapy Institute, Calgary Therapy Services |
| LGBTQ+ Affirming Care | Calgary Counselling and Psychology Centre, Cultivate Counselling |
| Direct Insurance Billing | Emotions Therapy Calgary, Calgary Institute of Counselling (Blue Cross) |
Taking Action
Start with a consultation: Most clinics offer free 15-20 minute consultations to ensure fit
Verify insurance coverage: Call your insurer to confirm which designations they cover
Trust your instincts: The therapeutic relationship matters more than credentials alone
Don't hesitate to switch: If your first choice isn't working, trying another clinic is perfectly acceptable
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you choose one of these alternatives or continue with Virtuous Circle Counselling, taking steps toward better mental health is what matters most.
About This Guide
This comparison was compiled through direct research of each clinic's services, fees, and client reviews as of September 2025. Prices and availability may change, so we recommend contacting clinics directly for the most current information.
