The Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) was on Parliament Hill last week to acknowledge the federal government’s decision to eliminate the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on counselling therapy and psychotherapy services in regulated provinces. This historic move was made possible through Bill C-59, An Act to Implement Certain Provisions of the Fall Economic Statement, which recently received royal assent.
The CCPA extends special recognition to MP Stephen Ellis and MP Lindsay Mathyssen for their instrumental roles in this achievement. Both Members of Parliament put forward Private Members’ Bills that significantly contributed to this legislative success, highlighting their dedication to mental health care accessibility.
“We are thrilled that Bill C-59 has become law as it will transform the mental health care landscape in Canada by removing financial barriers that may prevent many individuals from accessing vital therapy services,” said Vicki-Anne Rodrigue, Quebec Francophone Director of CCPA. “We are particularly grateful to the MPs who supported this important measure.”
The CCPA also acknowledges the pivotal role played by Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland. Her recognition of the importance of this measure to Canadians and her efforts to bring it to fruition have been crucial in making this tax exemption a reality.
Removing the tax on services provided by Counselling Therapists and Psychotherapists is an important and cost-effective way for the federal government to show Canadians they are listening. This initiative is expected to reduce the financial strain on those seeking assistance, potentially increasing the number of treatment sessions they can access. At a time of extreme inflation, this change will help ensure that more people can afford the mental health care they need, making a significant difference in their lives.
The urgency of this measure is underscored by this year’s Canadian Mental Health Report Card, captured by a national survey organized by the Canadian Alliance of Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH), which gave Canada a collective grade of ‘F’ on access to publicly funded services. Countless people in Canada face financial barriers that prevent them from receiving the care they desperately need, and these survey results show that much more needs to be done.
“This achievement reflects the tremendous effort and dedication of our association, members, and partners,” said Dr. Kim Hollihan, CCPA’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the GST/HST removed from these crucial services, more Canadians will be able to access the care they need. Our advocacy has made a real difference, and we are excited to keep working towards better mental health support across the country.”
The CCPA remains committed to ongoing collaboration with the federal government to further enhance mental health care accessibility across Canada. The association encourages Canadians seeking mental health services to reach out to a counsellor, counselling therapist, or psychotherapist. For more information or to find a counsellor near you, please visit the CCPA directory of Canadian Certified Counsellors.
