Free Psychotherapy for Refugees:
Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)
What is the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)?
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) is a Canadian government program that provides free mental health services, including psychotherapy, to eligible refugees, asylum seekers, and protected persons. It acts as temporary health coverage until individuals receive provincial insurance, allowing clients to access trauma-informed counselling at no cost with a simple doctor or nurse practitioner letter confirming a mental health diagnosis. As an approved IFHP provider, my goal is to provide accessible, culturally responsive therapy that supports healing from trauma, post-migration stress, and the challenges of resettlement.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for free therapy if you are covered under the Interim Federal Health Program, including:
> Refugees
> Claimants / asylum seekers
> Protected persons
> Government-assisted and privately sponsored refugees
If you are unsure about your eligibility, you may contact me and I can help guide you through the process.
What You Need to Start
To begin therapy under IFHP, you will need:
> A valid IFHP document with UCI number, and
> A brief letter from a physician or nurse practitioner that includes a mental health diagnosis (e.g., anxiety, depression, PTSD).
If you need help finding a doctor or obtaining a letter, I can guide you through the steps.
How to Book
You can contact me directly to begin, or have a healthcare or community provider send a referral on your behalf.
š§ contact@nadiahsidiktherapy.com
š Fax: 416-342-3118
Iām happy to answer any questions about the IFHP process and help you get started.