Important Notice
Program application opens Oct. 20th, 2025. Program applications will close once the first 100 applications have been approved. The application link will be posted on this webpage.
This program is here to support Citizens by funding 12 sessions of psychological care. If you have already been enrolled in this program, you are not eligible to re-enroll at this time. If you applied previously but weren’t enrolled, you are eligible to apply during open application periods.
Program Eligibility
To be eligible to apply for this program, you must:
- Be a registered Citizen of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of the Métis Nation within Alberta.
- Be a resident of Alberta.
- Have an existing relationship with a licensed Psychologist or Social Worker.
- Have not received coverage under this benefit program already.
Please contact your Psychologist or Social Worker to confirm they are an eligible provider with Alberta Blue Cross.
Métis Citizens of all ages are eligible to apply; however, applications for Citizens under the age of 18 must be submitted by a parent/guardian.
Program Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Coverage for 12 sessions with a licensed Psychologist or Social Worker.
- Up to $225 per session, aligned with the Alberta Blue Cross Managed Fee Guide.
- Support for assessments, treatments, telehealth/virtual services, and Internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT).
- Either direct billing from the provider (via Alberta Blue Cross’s secure portal) or manual claim reimbursement.
- A confirmation letter and benefits card.
- Customer service support through Alberta Blue Cross.
Sessions must be used within 12 months from the date of their first session or within 18 months from the date of application, whichever comes first.
Contact: For questions related to the application process, please contact the Community Wellness Advocate at
CWA@metis.org
If you are currently enrolled in the program and have received your benefits card and enrollment letter, the Alberta Blue Cross Customer Services Department will be able to assist you with questions.
Psychology Benefit Program FAQ's
All FAQsHow do I apply?
You will need to fill out an online application on the Psychology Benefit Program webpage. During application periods, there will be a link to the online application form on the webpage and you will be able to click the link to fill out the application. You will find the webpage for the Psychology Benefit Program here.
What will I need to fill out the application?
The application takes approximately 10 mins to complete and will ask for your basic information (name, date of birth, contact information, etc.). You will need to provide your active Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizenship ID Number, and you will need to upload a document that proves an existing relationship between you and your psychologist/social worker.
What kind of document do I need?
You can use a receipt/invoice from a previous appointment, an email confirmation of a previous appointment, a screenshot of your appointment history from your client portal, or an email from your psychologist/social worker that explicitly states that you are their client. PLEASE NOTE: Some psychologists/social workers charge for such emails so connect with them regarding potential costs. The Otipemisiwak Métis Government will not cover or reimburse any fees or costs associated with obtaining supporting documents.
Can I apply for my child?
Yes, but only if they are under 18 years of age. In that case you will fill out your information as the “principal applicant” and add your child’s information later (this is outlined in the application form). PLEASE NOTE: Your child will need to meet all eligibility criteria (i.e. they will need their own Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizenship ID Number and proof of existing relationship).
Can you send me a copy of the application form in advance?
No. This program requires an online application. If you are unable to complete this, please connect with the Community Wellness Advocate (cwa@metis.org or 780-455-2200 Ext. 110), who may be able to arrange a phone appointment where the application can complete with you on the phone. PLEASE NOTE: If the program reached capacity before your application is completed by phone, you will not be enrolled.
What are the eligibility criteria?
Please see the webpage for program benefits.
What coverage will I receive?
Please see the webpage for program benefits.
How long will I have to use my sessions?
Please see the webpage for program benefits.
How many people are enrolled during each intake?
The first one hundred (100) eligible applications are enrolled for each intake. There are two intakes, one in the spring (usually April) and one in the fall (usually October). Dates are subject to change, but you can sign up for the Voyageur Voice e-newsletter of follow the Otipemisiwak Métis Government on social media (Facebook, Instagram) for the most accurate information as soon as it is available. PLEASE NOTE: Completing an application does not guarantee enrollment, even if you meet eligibility requirements, due to the limited capacity of the program.
How often can I be enrolled in this program?
Currently, each Citizen can only be enrolled in this program once.
Can I only see a psychologist or social worker?
Yes. Sessions with other mental health professionals will not be covered under this program. Please connect with your therapist to verify that they are a registered psychologist or social worker, or you can look them up to verify their registration:
I have not been able to see a psychologist/social worker due to financial barriers. Can I still apply?
This program is only for those with an existing relationship with a psychologist/social worker. As such, you will need to show that you have attended at least one appointment with them. It does not matter how long ago you saw them, only that you have seen them before.
If you are looking to see a specific psychologist/social worker but have not been able to because of finances, you can ask to see them on a sliding scale or ask for a shorter appointment to bring down costs for your initial appointment, but you will still need to pay out of pocket for this appointment. PLEASE NOTE: A reduction of cost for an appointment is at psychologist’s/social worker’s discretion and will not guarantee enrollment to the program.
If this does not work for you, please connect with the Community Wellness Advocate (cwa@metis.org or 780-455-2200 Ext. 110) for referrals for alternative counselling programs and services.
I am a psychologist/social worker. How do I become a provider for this program?
We do not keep a list of providers for this program, nor do we refer Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens to specific providers. Instead, this program is for those citizens that already have a relationship with a psychologist/social worker. You are welcome to provide Métis clients with the information about the program and encourage them to apply.