Affordable Therapy

At Relationship Counselling Toronto, we recognize the courage to seek therapy and are committed to providing accessible psychotherapy for everyone across Ontario. Our intern therapists offer quality psychotherapy services at an affordable rate under the guidance of experienced therapists. We offer virtual sessions over a secure platform at the convenience of clients.

Who are intern therapists?

  • Intern therapists are master’s level Counselling Psychology students who have completed the educational foundation and extensive training in couples therapy and other relevant training.

  • Intern therapists are required to provide psychotherapy services under the direct supervision of a Registered Social Worker or a Registered Psychotherapist as part of their practicum requirement. At Relationship Counselling Toronto, intern therapists are under close supervision of the Clinic Director, Shirley Hung, who is an ICEEFT certified EFT couples therapist Shirley meets with the intern therapists on a weekly basis to monitor progress.

  • They are mature students who have valuable work experience

  • They bring unique lived experiences to support clients

  • They are registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario

What are the benefits of working with a student therapist?

  • Low cost: affordable rate to make mental health support accessible to all

  • Supervised practice: students are under the direct supervision of a Registered Social Worker or Registered Psychotherapist so they are in excellent care

  • Flexibility: daytime, evening, and weekend availability

  • No wait list: immediate availability, same-day appointments upon request

  • Enthusiasm: students are motivated and committed to ongoing learning

  • Knowledge: intern therapists bring fresh perspectives and a wealth of knowledge on the latest research

Who would be suitable for the affordable therapy program?

  • Clients who cannot afford the standard rate of therapy

  • Clients who require flexible appointments

  • Clients who are ready to start therapy immediately

  • Clients who prefer the convenience of virtual sessions

What can a student therapist help with?

  • Relationship issues (dating, break up)

  • Couples therapy

  • Stress

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Life transitions

  • Postpartum anxiety & postpartum depression

Meet Our Intern Therapist(s)

Young woman with long dark hair, wearing a gray blazer, standing in front of a wooden slat wall and green plant.

Jingzhou Zhang

  • Individual Counselling

  • Couples Therapy

  • Relationship Counselling

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Our Affordable Therapy program offers reduced‑fee psychotherapy services provided by master’s‑level intern therapists under the close supervision of experienced clinicians.

    We are committed to increasing access to quality therapy in Toronto and across Ontario (virtually) while maintaining a high standard of clinical care.

    This program allows clients to receive thoughtful, evidence‑based support at a more accessible rate.

  • At Relationship Counselling Toronto, intern therapists:

    • Are registered with either the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) 

    • Receive weekly supervision and direct clinical guidance from our Clinic Director, Shirley Hung‑Truchot, MSW, RSW, who is a Registered Social Worker and an ICEEFT‑certified therapist in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) and Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)

    • Provide psychotherapy as part of a structured practicum under formal supervision in accordance with Ontario regulatory standards

    All client work is closely reviewed and supported to ensure ethical, safe, and effective care.

  • Yes. Intern therapists provide psychotherapy under structured supervision and ongoing case consultation.

    Clients often benefit from:

    • Fresh perspectives grounded in current research

    • High levels of engagement and commitment

    • Careful clinical oversight

    You are not receiving “lesser” therapy, you are receiving supervised therapy designed to maintain strong clinical standards while increasing affordability.

  • Affordable therapy may be suitable for:

    • Individuals or couples seeking lower‑cost therapy in Toronto or Ontario

    • Clients who require flexible daytime, evening, or weekend appointments

    • Clients who prefer virtual therapy

    • Clients who would like to begin therapy without a waitlist

    If you are unsure whether this program is right for you, we invite you to book a complimentary consultation.

  • Our intern therapists support clients with:

    • Relationship challenges and dating concerns

    • Couples therapy

    • Breakups and life transitions

    • Anxiety and depression

    • Stress and burnout

    • Postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression

    Services are offered virtually across Ontario for convenience and accessibility.

  • Affordable therapy sessions are offered at a reduced rate compared to standard therapy fees.

    A detailed breakdown of session fees and coverage information is available on our Fees and Coverage page.

    We aim to make psychotherapy more accessible to individuals and couples throughout Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and across Ontario.

  • Yes. We offer a complimentary 15‑minute consultation for individuals and couples in Toronto, the GTA, and across Ontario (virtually).

    You can book your free consultation here. This call allows you to ask questions about the Affordable Therapy program and determine whether working with an intern therapist feels like the right fit.

Ready to take the next step?