(Charlie Fidelman/ Montreal Gazette) — Quebec is investing $35 million in mental health to launch the first public psychotherapy program, the provincial health department announced Sunday.
In Quebec, as in other provinces, psychotherapy services are not part of publicly insured health-care services although psychotherapy is a recognized treatment option for common mental disorders.
Inspired by a similar program in place in the United Kingdom for a decade, Quebec’s investment aims to establish the service, develop a reference framework, upgrade training of health professionals as well as set up a registry of recognized psychotherapists.
Announced in Montreal by Health Minister Gaétan Barrette, the program is expected to get underway next year.
Once the program is running, those with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, among others, could consult a psychotherapist and be reimbursed by the provincial health insurance board (RAMQ). (…)