Affordable Counselling
Affordable Counselling in Barrie, Ontario
At Mind 2 Heart Connections, we understand that accessing affordable mental health services is essential. That’s why we offer affordable counselling for individuals and families in Barrie, Ontario, and surrounding areas. We are committed to providing high-quality, accessible therapy for everyone, regardless of financial circumstances.
Why Choose Affordable Counseling at Mind 2 Heart?
Our affordable counselling services are delivered by Master of Social Work (MSW) students and Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying) who have completed the academic portion of their graduate studies. These interns receive weekly supervision from our founder, Laura Banks, RSW, MSW, to ensure they provide professional and compassionate care. Each session is available at an affordable rate offering effective therapy at a lower cost.
We offer in-person counseling in Barrie or virtual therapy sessions, giving you flexibility to
choose the format that works best for you.
We are here to help both you and your child find relief and
build a more hopeful future together.
These dedicated professionals have completed the coursework component of their education and are now gaining hands-on experience. With weekly supervision and access to up-to-date therapeutic techniques, they provide care that is informed, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs.
How Our Interns Can Help
Our interns are equipped to help with a variety of mental health challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress management
- Depression and mood disorders
- ADHD and autism support
- Communication skills and building social skills
- Grief and loss, navigating difficult emotions
- Anger management and emotional regulation
- Low self-esteem and building self-worth
Affordable Therapy Offers 3 Options
At Mind 2 Heart Connections, we believe that everyone deserves access to affordable therapy, no matter their financial situation. To make our services more accessible, we offer three flexible options to accommodate different needs:
This option is ideal for clients who meet the following criteria:
- Be 10 years or older
- Have no or limited access to extended health care benefits
- Be able to commit to a minimum of 6 sessions, either weekly or bi-weekly (in-personorvirtual).
- Understand that once the therapist completes their internship, they will no longer be able to offer reduced-rate services
- Financial strain
For clients with access to extended health care benefits, we offer sessions at $130.00 per hour. This option is available for clients who:
- Are 7 years or older
- Have extended health care benefits to help cover therapy costs
- Can commit to a minimum of 6 sessions, either weekly or bi-weekly (in-person or virtual)
- Understand that once the intern is no longer available, the reduced-rate services may no longer be guaranteed
Our Low Income Subsidy Program is designed for families and individuals living at a low income or receiving ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program). This program offers sliding scale pricing and ensures that therapy remains accessible for those in need.
Criteria for this program include:
- Commitment to a minimum of 6 sessions, either weekly or bi-weekly (in-person or virtual)
- Eligibility for 8 sessions guaranteed, with the potential for more based on approval from the therapist or clinical director
- Sliding scale pricing per hour, with the goal of everyone contributing in some way to their therapy
- Community partner referrals are encouraged for this program
Benefits of Affordable Counseling
Start Your Mental Health Journey Today
Choosing affordable counselling in Barrie with Mind 2 Heart Connections means you are investing in your well-being while contributing to the growth of new therapists. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenge, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to book a consultation and see if our affordable counselling program is the right fit for you.
Our client care Team at Mind 2 Heart
Foluke Olusegun-Emmanuel,
Intern, MACP (candidate), BA (Honours)
Internship from May 2026-
December 2026
Katie Macintosh,
Intern, MACP (candidate), BA (Honours)
Internship from January 2026 -
August 2026
Sometimes kids and teens carry a lot on the inside. Big feelings can come out quickly, or build quietly until everything feels overwhelming. You might notice worry, frustration, shutdown, or a sense that your child is struggling but can’t quite make sense of what they’re feeling. This can be hard for both the young person and the family.
Having a space where they can slow down, understand their emotions, and learn safe ways to express them can make a meaningful difference. I offer a calm, supportive environment where children and teens can begin to make sense of their experiences at their own pace.
My approach is neuro-affirming, holistic, and strengths-based. I believe each child experiences the world in their own way, and those differences deserve to be met with curiosity and respect. I use an integrative approach that includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy alongside person-centered principles, creating a balance of gentle structure and genuine connection.
I work through a trauma-informed lens, recognizing both the challenges children face and the resilience they carry. My work is shaped by my experience supporting neurodivergent children, as well as my own lived experience growing up alongside a sibling with complex needs. This has taught me the importance of slowing down, listening closely, and meeting each child where they are. I also understand the impact of grief and loss, and how important it is to have support during those times.
I have several years of experience working with neurodivergent children and am passionate about creating spaces where they feel a sense of belonging and acceptance.
I am currently in the practicum portion of my Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. As an intern, I practice under the supervision of the founder, Laura Banks, RSW, MSW.
I am an intern pursuing a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University under the supervision of Laura Banks (RSW, MSW). With an educational background based on trauma informed care and working with neurodivergent children with complex needs, I bring a strong understanding of how impactful a safe space for processing can be for children who feel lonely in their experiences.
Many children, teens, and parents come to counselling feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to begin.
Big emotions, school pressures, friendships, life transitions, and neurodivergent needs can feel heavy to carry alone. Children and youth may struggle with anxiety, emotional regulation, confidence, perfectionism, peer conflict, or feeling “different,” while parents often feel exhausted trying to support their child while also caring for themselves. Families can feel stuck, isolated, or worried they’re missing something important.
I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where children, youth, and parents can feel safe to slow down and be themselves.
My approach is holistic, neuro-affirming, and individualized, meeting each person where they are while honouring their strengths, needs, and lived experiences. I draw from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), person-centred therapy, and solution-focused approaches to help clients build emotional regulation skills, practical coping tools, and a deeper understanding of themselves. With over five years of experience supporting children and youth across early childhood, school, and community-based support settings, I have worked alongside individuals with ASD, ADHD, ODD, FASD, and a wide range of learning and emotional needs.
My goal is to help life feel more manageable—for both children and their caregivers.
I strive to create a counselling experience where clients feel seen, heard, and genuinely supported. By walking alongside youth and families, I aim to help build confidence, resilience, and a greater sense of calm and connection. Together, we focus on strengths, values, and small, meaningful steps forward so challenges feel less isolating and growth feels possible.
Katie is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a Master of Counselling Psychology candidate at Yorkville University. She brings over five years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and individuals across early childhood, school, and community support settings. Katie has worked as an Educational Assistant supporting neurodivergent youth, including those with ASD, FASD, ADHD, ODD, developmental delays, and behavioural needs. She has also worked as an Early Childhood Educator, developing strong skills in emotional attunement, relationship-building, and strengths-based support for children and their families. Across all roles, Katie brings a compassionate, neuro-affirming lens and a deep respect for each person’s unique developmental journey.
Interns begin with Mind 2 Heart in January, May, and September of each year.
our application here