If you’ve had persistent feelings of worry, sadness or stress, you’re not alone. With rates of depression and anxiety growing across Canada, many people are looking for affordable therapy, just like you. 

Government-funded therapy is here  

Government-funded therapy programs are being introduced to help people get the support they need. In Ontario, adults with symptoms of depression or anxiety have access to Ontario Structured Psychotherapy (OSP). 

What is Ontario Structured Psychotherapy (OSP)? 

OSP offers free cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for depression, anxiety and anxiety-related concerns like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or posttraumatic stress to adults 18 and older living in Ontario.  

What is CBT? 

CBT is a short-term treatment that focuses on how a person’s thoughts, feelings and actions are connected. At OSP West, clients participate in CBT to learn practical skills to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression.  

What sets us apart from other therapy options  

There are many therapy options available in Ontario. Here's what makes us different:

• We offer free therapy. We're funded by Ontario Health; you will not be billed for any appointments. 
• You don’t need a referral from a doctor. You can refer yourself, and you don’t need a health card—you just need to be living in Ontario.
• Many of our treatment options are designed to be flexible with your schedule and come with shorter wait times.  Most people who are successfully referred to our program start with self-guided CBT. Using an app or a workbook, clients read about strategies to manage their symptoms and then practice skill-building activities, with a clinician or coach providing support through online messaging or by phone throughout the process. Those needing more support can transfer to group or individual therapy. 
• We don’t let language or technology get in the way of your care. We offer support in multiple languages by phone, video or in person. 

Learn more about our program and how to get started 

We're glad you’re here and looking for help. To take the next step with our program, visit these pages on our website:

• What we offer: Find your local OSP service provider and read more about what treatment looks like.
• Refer yourself now: Before filling out a form to refer yourself, review our program requirements to make sure OSP West is right for you. If you want a health care provider to help you get connected, share this blog or our website with them.
• Immediate help: We are not a crisis service. If you need help right away, we’ve listed some quick ways to get help right now.