Indigenous Mental Health Support: How to Find an NIHB-Approved Therapist

For eligible First Nations and Inuit individuals, the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program provides coverage for mental health counselling with approved providers across Canada.

Why Indigenous Mental Health Matters

Many Indigenous individuals and communities continue to experience the impacts of colonization, systemic discrimination, intergenerational trauma, and the legacy of residential schools. While every person's story is unique, culturally safe and trauma-informed mental health care can play an important role in healing, resilience, and overall well-being.

What Is the NIHB Program?

The NIHB Program is a federal health benefits program that provides eligible First Nations and Inuit individuals with coverage for services that may not be covered through provincial health insurance or private benefits. This includes mental health counselling.

Eligible clients can receive up to 22 hours of mental health counselling per calendar year, with additional hours available in some circumstances.

Who Is Eligible?

You may qualify for NIHB mental health benefits if you are:

• A registered First Nations person

• A recognized Inuk

Eligibility requirements are determined by Indigenous Services Canada.

How to Find an NIHB-Approved Therapist

When searching for a therapist, consider the following:

1. Ask Whether They Are an NIHB Provider

Not every therapist can bill NIHB directly. Ask the clinic whether their psychologists, social workers, psychotherapists, or other regulated professionals are enrolled with the NIHB program. Approved providers must be registered with their regulatory college and meet NIHB requirements.

2. Look for Direct Billing

Many NIHB-approved clinics can bill NIHB directly, meaning you may not need to pay out of pocket and seek reimbursement later.

3. Find a Therapist Who Feels Like the Right Fit

Research consistently shows that the relationship between client and therapist is one of the strongest predictors of positive outcomes in therapy. Look for someone whose approach, experience, and values align with your needs.

4. Consider Cultural Safety

Some Indigenous clients prefer working with clinicians who have experience supporting Indigenous communities, while others may prioritize a therapist's expertise in specific concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, substance use, or relationship challenges. The right choice is the one that feels most supportive to you.

Does One Psychology Clinic Accept NIHB?

Yes. One Psychology Clinic is proud to offer NIHB-covered therapy services for eligible First Nations and Inuit clients across Ontario. Our team includes registered psychologists, social worker, and supervised psychology clinicians who provide compassionate, evidence-based care for adolescents and adults.

We offer support for:

• Anxiety and stress

• Depression and low mood

• Trauma and PTSD

• ADHD

• Substance use concerns

• Relationship difficulties

• Life transitions and identity concerns

• Integenerational trauma

• Cultural identity and connection

  
  

Our administrative team can help determine whether your clinician is eligible for NIHB billing and guide you through the process.

Getting Started

If you are eligible for NIHB and are looking for support, we invite you to reach out. Completing our New Client Form is the first step toward being matched with a therapist who fits your needs.

Tom Willman, a proud Métis therapist at One Psychology Clinic.